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

  • Good sound quality, delivering clarity and punchy bass associated with headphones
  • Well-built with quality materials like brass and palladium coating, offering a premium feel
  • Multiple sizes of ear tips are included to ensure sound encapsulation and bass delivery
  • The mic is placed further up the wire for convenient use
  • Aesthetically pleasing and minimal design

Product Considerations

  • The non-detachable flat cable may experience microphonic cable noise
  • Some reviewers have reported occasional QC issues
  • Volume buttons may not work in aux mode with some devices
  • Brass construction adds extra weight, causing slippage
  • Isolation may not be adequate enough to block out a loud environment

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sennheiser IE 600: The ME05 sell for less
  • Vs Apple AirPods Pro 2: The ME05 outperform in the audio department

Takeaway: The ME05 are a stylish and well-built option with a detailed and balanced sound. These earphones can be a good alternative to headphones when something more portable and convenient is desired.

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

ME05

reviews

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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: 8mm high-excursion, bio-cellulose
  • Driver Impedance: 16Ω
  • Cable Length: 1.2m
  • Earphone Dimensions: 12x26.4x16.9mm
  • Weight: 23g
  • Audio Format: USB-C adapter supports up to 32-bit / 385 kHz resolution
  • Microphone Type: MEMS microphone with proprietary wind reduction acoustic mesh
The newest generation of our iconic ME05 Wired Earphones is a re-release crafted from the same high-quality materials, now with more expansive acoustics, more fit options, and future-proof compatibility. Because we could all use one less thing to charge.
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:

  • Master & Dynamic products are distinguished by their use of premium materials like aluminum, lambskin leather, and tempered glass, resulting in a luxurious and durable design aesthetic.
  • The brand consistently delivers a "signature rich, warm sound" with a punchy bass response, often utilizing custom-designed beryllium drivers, which emphasizes musicality.

MG20 Wireless Gaming Headphones

  • Positioning: Budget-friendly wireless headphones designed specifically for gaming.
  • Description: Delivers clear sound and low latency that suits fast-paced gameplay, with a focus on comfort during long sessions. Compared to the MH40 and MW75 series, it offers fewer advanced noise cancellation and processing techniques, making it ideal for users on a tighter budget and who play in small spaces.

ME05

  • Positioning: Entry-level model aimed at portability and everyday use.
  • Description: Features a compact design with reliable wireless connectivity and straightforward controls that support casual listening. While it lacks the specialized tuning of the gaming MG20 and the active noise cancellation of the MW75 products, it may suit users with moderate budgets and daily portability needs.

MH40 Wireless Over Ear Headphones V2

  • Positioning: Mid-range wireless headphones focused on everyday over-ear listening comfort.
  • Description: Delivers balanced sound with improved battery life and a comfortable fit that enhances everyday use. Compared to the MG20 and entry-level ME05, it steps up on audio quality without adopting the premium noise cancellation and processing features found in the MW75 models.

MW75 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones

  • Positioning: High-end headphones featuring advanced active noise cancellation for immersive listening.
  • Description: Combines effective noise cancelling with high-fidelity sound quality, offering a refined listening experience in various settings. While it provides a clear upgrade in noise reduction over the MH40 and MG20, it is outclassed in specialized processing by the Neuro variant.

MW75 Neuro

  • Positioning: Premium flagship enhanced with innovative sensor technology for adaptive sound processing.
  • Description: Uses smart sensor features with active noise cancellation to adapt audio performance on the fly, offering a tailored experience in larger or noisier environments. Relative to the standard MW75, MH40, and MG20, it delivers more nuanced audio performance and additional functionality.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
783
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
23
Founding Year
2013

Our take on the brand

Master & Dynamic is a hifi audio brand that uses unconventional materials, including beryllium drivers across their entire lineup, tempered glass ear cups on headphones, and sapphire glass on earbuds, with handcrafted acetate shells reminiscent of luxury eyewear. They've also created unique products, such as a 35-pound wireless speaker with a concrete composite enclosure, and integrated EEG sensors into headphones to track focus and trigger brain-break prompts.

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?

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From our interview with
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Used

Master & Dynamic

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What if you spend more?

Product image
Thieaudio
Monarch MKIII
999
999
/
13
Reviews
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Offers excellent midrange resolution, highlighting subtle details in instruments
  • Features a safe yet exciting U-shaped tuning suitable for all genres
  • Presents a dynamic and exciting sound signature, clear vocal performances, and a resolving staging performance
  • The included cable is of high quality and features interchangeable plugs
  • Has great audio reproduction accuracy and consistent audio delivery

Product Considerations

  • The upper treble may be a little exaggerated for some listeners
  • The shell is larger than average for a universal IEM, which may cause fit issues for some
  • Stock ear tips are just okay
  • Bass resolution could be better
  • Does not have an integrated microphone, so a standalone mic is needed to take calls

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Monarch MKII: The MKIII has increased richness in its midrange and an upper treble exaggeration, offering a slightly U-shaped signature compared to the MkII's balanced profile
  • Vs. Symphonium Helios: MkIII's midbass body contrasts Helios' dipped lower mids, MkIII has better overall resolution, but a more exaggerated treble
  • Vs. 64 Audio U4s: The MkIII is better tuned compared to the U4s, with the U4s having a thicker midrange and weightier timbre
  • Vs. MOONDROP x Crinacle DUSK: The THIEAUDIO have a more detailed treble range
  • Vs. MOONDROP Blessing 3: The THIEAUDIO have a more elevated bass range
  • Vs. TRUTHEAR x Crinacle ZERO: RED: The THIEAUDIO do a better job blocking out external noise and leak less audio

Takeaway: The Monarch MKIII is a well-tuned IEM that is great for all kinds of music and has excellent technical performance. If one is looking for a high-end IEM with a versatile sound, this could be a great choice.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Sennheiser
IE 600
899
899
/
13
Reviews
Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Agreeable, natural sonic signature
  • Sounds very good, feels tough, and comes with most of the accessories needed
  • Precision-milled housings follow the company’s IE 900, IE 200, and IE 300 models, shape wise, and therefore comfort wise
  • A well-engineered product that sounds excellent
  • Measured performance closely aligns with a headphone preference curve, so it sounds excellent

Product Considerations

  • Basic silicone eartips that don’t fit everyone
  • The MMCX connector is an atypical version that will not work with most other cables
  • The texture of the AMLOY-ZR01 finish is not everyone's favorite to wear
  • Treble is a bit subdued with cymbals resolving reasonably well, but way behind the IE 900
  • Stock tips that come with Sennheiser's earphones are poorly designed; the silicone lacks rigidity to the point of which it more often than not collapses against the ear when one inserts the IEMs, thus making a proper seal very difficult to achieve

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs IE 900: The easier-to-drive IE 900 have a tighter, less thumpy low end and a leaner midrange, which results in better separation between the two, and also in better midrange resolution and clarity
  • Vs IE 900: The IE 900 also have a much superior (perceived) treble extension and resolution, and a much wider soundstage
  • Vs Final E5000: The final E5000 offer fuller voices, more bass, but less treble than the IE 600, and a narrower stage
  • Vs Meze ADVAR: The ADVAR's sound is taller than the IE 600, the latter has more width, and imaging is tight and well-produced in both IEMs, with the IE 600 edging out the ADVAR by the slightest of margins

Takeaway: The IE 600 is a great set of earphones that will appeal to listeners owing to their punchy tonality and is pretty much unparalleled in their class. With the IE 600, listeners get undistorted audio and great isolation, and durable materials that will always sound good.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Westone Audio
MACH 60
846
846
/
12
Reviews
Westone Audio specializes in in-ear monitors designed by and for musicians, offering universal-fit and custom models engineered for accuracy, comfort, and stage-ready reliability. The MACH series delivers their popular custom-quality sound in a universal fit, the AM Pro X line preserves on-stage ambience for performers, and the Pro X series uses efficient sound channels for cleaner, more balanced frequency response. Praised by musical icons for decades, Westone emphasizes uncompromising performance for both professionals and discerning listeners.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Very comfortable, suitable for long listening sessions and wearing in bed, due to its small size, lightweight design, and ergonomic shape
  • Delivers a neutral and natural sound presentation, making it appropriate for stage and studio monitoring
  • Excellent sound isolation, effectively blocking out external noise
  • Good detail retrieval and resolution, presenting information accurately

Product Considerations

  • May sound a bit boring or dull if one is looking for a more dynamic and engaging sound with more bass and treble emphasis
  • The plastic build quality may not feel as premium as some other IEMs
  • Requires a bit more power to drive it to sound best

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Mach 60 has a more neutral presentation, while ADV M512D is more elevated in the mids and treble and has more bass impact
  • Mach 60 is more neutral and natural, while Unique Melody MEST delivers excellent detail and resolution

Takeaway: The Westone Mach 60 is a comfortable and well-built in-ear monitor that delivers a neutral and natural sound, great for musicians and audiophiles looking for an accurate representation of their music. It is a great tool as a stage monitor and comfortable for long listening sessions.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Westone Audio specializes in in-ear monitors designed by and for musicians, offering universal-fit and custom models engineered for accuracy, comfort, and stage-ready reliability. The MACH series delivers their popular custom-quality sound in a universal fit, the AM Pro X line preserves on-stage ambience for performers, and the Pro X series uses efficient sound channels for cleaner, more balanced frequency response. Praised by musical icons for decades, Westone emphasizes uncompromising performance for both professionals and discerning listeners.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
FIIO
FH9
558
558
/
12
Reviews
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Convincingly balanced sound performance with a slight bass emphasis
  • A wide and deep soundstage
  • High-quality build, using a titanium housing, making it feel robust
  • Good clarity and sparkle in the highs, with a natural and airy treble that feels relaxed
  • Comes with a decorative, braided balanced cable made of silver wire, with interchangeable ends

Product Considerations

  • A larger earbud which may affect the fit for some users
  • A slight emphasis in the bass area and a sober sound, which may be a matter of taste
  • Semi-open design is less isolating
  • High frequencies might be too elevated for some

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs FiiO FH5s: Better bass texture, transparency, resolution, and treble definition, and sounds more cohesive and balanced
  • Vs FiiO FH7: Better design, a better carrying case, more accessories, better build quality, better refinement, more resolution, transparency, treble definition, dynamism, and a wider and deeper soundstage
  • Vs Kinera Norn: Better mid-range definition, tonality, and transparency, the Norn has a more V-shaped sound signature with splashy and aggressive treble

Takeaway: The FiiO FH9 is a well-crafted IEM with a balanced sound signature and customizable options, making it enjoyable for a wide range of listeners. It has excellent detail retrieval and a wide soundstage that immerses the listener in the music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Master & Dynamic
MW09
399
/
Released
2023
Powerful new adaptive noise cancellation. Up to 16 hours of playtime. Re-engineered, lightweight fit. AI-enhanced talk solution. Made from sapphire glass, aluminum, and Kevlar® fiber. Thoughtfully composed to deliver an unparalleled listening experience.
Check Amazon
Master & Dynamic is a hifi audio brand that uses unconventional materials, including beryllium drivers across their entire lineup, tempered glass ear cups on headphones, and sapphire glass on earbuds, with handcrafted acetate shells reminiscent of luxury eyewear. They've also created unique products, such as a 35-pound wireless speaker with a concrete composite enclosure, and integrated EEG sensors into headphones to track focus and trigger brain-break prompts.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Premium design and build quality with luxurious materials like aluminum, Kevlar, and sapphire glass
  • Excellent battery life, up to 16 hours in the earbuds and 32 hours with the charging case
  • Support for advanced Bluetooth codecs like aptX Lossless and Bluetooth 5.4 for high-quality audio transmission
  • Customizable sound through the M&D Connect app with preset and custom EQ options
  • Comfortable and secure fit due to a variety of included ear tip options (silicone and foam)

Product Considerations

  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) performance may not be as effective as some competitors, like Bose and Sony
  • Default sound may be too bass-heavy for some listeners and may need EQ adjustments
  • Relatively expensive compared to other true wireless earbuds
  • Larger size and heavier than many competing earbuds, potentially impacting comfort during workouts
  • Physical button controls feel outdated compared to touch controls on competitors

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Sony WF-1000XM5, the MW09 has better build quality, but the Sony has better noise cancellation and a more enjoyable default sound signature
  • Compared to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, Bose has superior noise cancellation
  • The MW09 is a noticeable upgrade over the MW08, with built-in EQ, longer battery life, improved durability, and better noise canceling
  • Compared to the Apple AirPods Pro 2, the MW09 has much better audio quality, though the MW09 is not ideal for phone calls

Takeaway: The MW09 earbuds are beautifully crafted with high-end materials and offer excellent battery life, making them a stylish and practical choice for enjoying music. With customizable sound and the latest Bluetooth technology, these earbuds provide a premium listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Master & Dynamic is a hifi audio brand that uses unconventional materials, including beryllium drivers across their entire lineup, tempered glass ear cups on headphones, and sapphire glass on earbuds, with handcrafted acetate shells reminiscent of luxury eyewear. They've also created unique products, such as a 35-pound wireless speaker with a concrete composite enclosure, and integrated EEG sensors into headphones to track focus and trigger brain-break prompts.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Master & Dynamic
MW08 Sport
349
/
Released
2021
Designed with shatter-resistant sapphire glass and a custom Kevlar® fiber charging case compatible with our MC100 Wireless Charge Pad, MW08 Sport is built to endure. Power through with Hybrid Active Noise-Cancellation, two Ambient Listening modes for improved outdoor awareness, and memory foam ear tips for an enhanced and comfortable fit.
Check Amazon
Master & Dynamic is a hifi audio brand that uses unconventional materials, including beryllium drivers across their entire lineup, tempered glass ear cups on headphones, and sapphire glass on earbuds, with handcrafted acetate shells reminiscent of luxury eyewear. They've also created unique products, such as a 35-pound wireless speaker with a concrete composite enclosure, and integrated EEG sensors into headphones to track focus and trigger brain-break prompts.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Strong audio performance with rich lows and detailed highs
  • Solid noise cancellation
  • Wireless charging support
  • Scratch-resistant earpieces with shatterproof sapphire glass enclosures
  • Kevlar-coated charging case

Product Considerations

  • Expensive, especially considering the limited improvements over the standard MW08
  • Middling water-resistance rating (IPX5)
  • Lackluster in-ear fit for exercise, lacking earfin sleeves or similar features
  • No EQ in the app
  • Slightly heavier bass focus and a more laid-back top-end, resulting in a sound that isn’t as versatile

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport are truly waterproof
  • Sony WF-1000XM4 offers the best ANC

Takeaway: The MW08 Sport earphones sound great and offer features like wireless charging and scratch resistance. They are a solid option if you want good audio and some extra protection.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Master & Dynamic is a hifi audio brand that uses unconventional materials, including beryllium drivers across their entire lineup, tempered glass ear cups on headphones, and sapphire glass on earbuds, with handcrafted acetate shells reminiscent of luxury eyewear. They've also created unique products, such as a 35-pound wireless speaker with a concrete composite enclosure, and integrated EEG sensors into headphones to track focus and trigger brain-break prompts.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Master & Dynamic
MW08 Sport Mercedes-AMG
399
/
Released
2022
Crafted from high-performing Kevlar® fiber, MW08 Sport is built to endure. Power through with Hybrid Active Noise-Cancellation, two Ambient Listening modes for improved outdoor awareness, and memory foam ear tips for an enhanced and comfortable fit on any adventure.
Check Amazon
Master & Dynamic is a hifi audio brand that uses unconventional materials, including beryllium drivers across their entire lineup, tempered glass ear cups on headphones, and sapphire glass on earbuds, with handcrafted acetate shells reminiscent of luxury eyewear. They've also created unique products, such as a 35-pound wireless speaker with a concrete composite enclosure, and integrated EEG sensors into headphones to track focus and trigger brain-break prompts.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Video review

Our take on the brand

Master & Dynamic is a hifi audio brand that uses unconventional materials, including beryllium drivers across their entire lineup, tempered glass ear cups on headphones, and sapphire glass on earbuds, with handcrafted acetate shells reminiscent of luxury eyewear. They've also created unique products, such as a 35-pound wireless speaker with a concrete composite enclosure, and integrated EEG sensors into headphones to track focus and trigger brain-break prompts.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Truthear
Nova
169
/
Released
2023
NOVA is a 1DD+4BA in-ear headphone with 3-way crossover composite structure. Compared with HEXA, the original design intention is to further improve the high-frequency performance while maintaining a reasonable and efficient configuration, and also strive to bring users a mature earphone with a hybrid 3-way crossover structure at a reasonable price.
Check Amazon
Truthear is a brand that has continued to design products not just in response to but in collaboration with the audio community and influential figures such as Headphones.com's 'Listener' and The Hangout's 'Crinacle'. Delivering products that achieve excellent adherence to preferred targets at extremely accessible prices.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Sound signature is likely to be palatable for a wide range of people at its price point.
  • Good emphasis in the upper midrange, decent timbre, good resolution, the upper midrange is upfront with the vocals, nice details, and it works well with a smooth treble.
  • Very smooth treble and the absence of sibilance.
  • Good dynamic bass that's nicely textured and has a decent rumble.
  • Imaging is accurate.

Product Considerations

  • The Truth Ear Nova does not sound better or more balanced than the Hexa, since the reviewer prefers a more balanced sound signature.
  • Nova is not a thick-sounding IEM, it's quite thin.
  • The midrange is chiefly defined by a cavernous suckout in the low-midrange.
  • Soundstage is a little narrower than preferred.
  • Shell size may be slightly large for smaller ears.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Moondrop Variations: Nova is significantly cheaper and close enough in performance that one should save money and go for Nova.
  • Vs. Truthear Hexa: Nova easily has a smoother treble presentation, has more dynamic bass, and is more ergonomic, but Hexa has one of the best midranges in this price tier.
  • Vs. Truthear Zero: RED: Zero: RED beats Nova almost across the board in tuning and simply sounds more normal.

Takeaway: The Truth Ear Nova is commendable for achieving its tuning at its price point, especially for those looking for a V-shaped presentation or Harman-esque kind of sound signature. If the Harman IE target is to one's liking, Nova is probably as safe a choice as any of the other Harman options out there.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Truthear is a brand that has continued to design products not just in response to but in collaboration with the audio community and influential figures such as Headphones.com's 'Listener' and The Hangout's 'Crinacle'. Delivering products that achieve excellent adherence to preferred targets at extremely accessible prices.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Thieaudio
Legacy 4
195
/
Released
2020
The Legacy 4 was designed concurrently with the Legacy 5 to provide a unique twist to the lineup. With the beloved budget model, the Legacy 3, and the natural and smooth sound signature of the Legacy 5 in mind, we wanted the Legacy 4 to be a middle ground - both in terms of the tuning and price.
Check Amazon
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Great build quality and a generous accessory set
  • Decently wide soundstage for closed-back IEMs, presenting a three-dimensional space for instrument placement
  • Strong technical performance for the price, with standout resolution

Product Considerations

  • The lack of a lip on the nozzle makes it impossible to use even slightly-larger-than-perfect eartips, as they just fall off
  • Treble is a tad brighter than preferred, which some may find fatiguing over time

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Thieaudio Legacy 3, the Legacy 4 has faster and more detailed bass, more detailed and extended treble, and better imaging and instrument separation
  • Compared to the Moondrop KXXS, the Legacy 4 has a solid technical edge in resolution and imaging

Takeaway: The Thieaudio Legacy 4 is a competent earphone that offers a clean, clear rendition of music with excellent resolution and detail retrieval. It is enjoyable across various genres and provides a high-quality listening experience for audiophiles.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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