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
- One of the few planar magnetic headphones with treble that works well.
- One of the few planar magnetic headphones with mostly solid midrange tuning, and good midrange integration with treble.
- Removable magnetic metal grill that can be placed inside the ear pad, which then gets affixed magnetically to the baffle, guaranteeing seal, but also relatively painless removal/replacement of pads if necessary.
Product Considerations
- Lacks bass presence, resulting in a sound that is not particularly punchy and lacking in density and weight.
- Minimal range of headband adjustment, loose fit on small and medium heads.
- Included accessories are lacking.
- Seemingly made solely for people with massive heads, and is only barely usable on the smallest setting for some.
- Stock pads suppresses the potential openness.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Hifiman Edition XS: The Edition XS has a pretty big leg up on Cosmo for comfort and accessories.
Takeaway: If one likes to sit still while listening, the Moondrop Cosmo could be worth buying due to its unique tuning and good midrange. The planar magnetic drivers are impressive from an engineering perspective.
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
Cosmo
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
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Model: COSMO 100mm Nanoscale Ultra-thin Flagship Planar Headphone
- Sensitivity: 100dB/Vrms (@1kHz)
- Impedance: 15Ω±15% (@1kHz)
- Frequency Range: 13Hz- 58kHz (IEC61094, Free Field)
- Effective Frequency Range: 20Hz- 20kHz (IEC60318-4, -3dB)
- Headphone Jack: 3.5mm
- Cable Plug: 4.4mm
Description
MOONDROP COSMO delivers a true reference-grade listening experience with its 100mm nanoscale ultra-thin planar diaphragm, precision silver-etched circuit, and optimized N52 magnet array. Designed with high sensitivity and low impedance, it pairs effortlessly with a wide range of sources. Its lightweight yet durable construction, interchangeable cable system, and scientifically tuned sound signature ensure accurate, natural reproduction—bringing studio-quality performance to everyday listening.
Release Timeline
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:
- Moondrop is recognized for its distinct design aesthetic, often incorporating anime-inspired elements and artistic visuals into its packaging and product design.
- The brand prioritizes a tuning style based on clear and objective measurements, striving for accuracy often based on the Harman target or their own in-house VSDF target.
- They offer a range of products, particularly IEMs, that aim to balance high sonic quality with competitive pricing, making them accessible to a wide range of audiophiles.
Select products
Select product comparisons
VOID
- Positioning: A monitor headphone aimed at professional and studio use.
- Description: Features a self-developed 50mm FEA driver with a heterorigidity composite diaphragm that enhances mid-bass dynamics and high-frequency detail. Compared to the planar lines, its design best suits users working in controlled monitoring environments while requiring a lower budget option for specialized audio production.
EDGE
- Positioning: A portable wireless ANC headphone built for everyday convenience.
- Description: Offers a large dynamic driver paired with hybrid active noise cancellation and long battery life for clear calls and sustained listening on the move. Compared to the wired planar models, it meets the needs of users seeking portable functionality and modern wireless features.
PARA2
- Positioning: A full-size planar headphone designed for detailed and natural audio reproduction.
- Description: Uses a 100mm FDT diaphragm with ultra-thin secondary diaphragm stress balance technology to deliver a smooth wide-band response with low distortion.
VENUS
- Positioning: A planar full-size headphone focused on high-fidelity sound and comfortable extended wear.
- Description: Uses a 100mm sub-nanometer diaphragm with high frequency waveguide phase equalization to achieve a natural timbre and ultra-low distortion. In contrast with the Para2 and flagship models, its integrated aluminum CNC cavity and self-adjusting leather headband deliver enhanced comfort and refined sonic detail.
COSMO
- Positioning: A flagship planar headphone featuring a nanoscale ultra-thin design for top-tier performance.
- Description: Incorporates a groundbreaking nanoscale ultra-thin diaphragm and computer-aided FEA-optimized driver that deliver ultra-low nonlinear distortion and scientific tuning. Compared to other models in the lineup, its advanced build and premium features represent the pinnacle of technical sophistication and detailed sound reproduction.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
784
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
54
Founding Year
2015
Our take on the brand
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
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Moondrop
Psyche
2399
2399
/
1
Reviews
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
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Our summary
Video review
Our take on the brand
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
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Dali
IO-12
1300
1300
/
21
Reviews
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
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Product Strengths
- Incredible sound quality, with neutrality, detail, and balance across the frequency range
- Excellent build quality with premium materials and comfortable, luxurious design, making them suitable for extended listening sessions
- Adequate battery life, with reviewers reporting around 35 hours of wireless playback with ANC
- Effective active noise cancellation reduces low-frequency sounds without significantly impacting sound quality
- Versatile connectivity options including Bluetooth, USB-C for high-resolution audio, and a 3.5mm analog input that can be used passively
Product Considerations
- High price point puts them out of reach for many consumers
- Lack of a companion app limits customization options like EQ settings, firmware updates via mobile, and custom control settings
- Large earcups and overall weight may not be suitable for those with smaller heads, and the headband may slip
- Included travel case is large
- Some reviewers found the dark chocolate color scheme unappealing
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The DALI IO-12 has better ANC than the Focal Bathys
- The IO-12 is similar in sound signature to the Mark Levinson No. 5909
Takeaway: The DALI IO-12 is a high-end wireless headphone that delivers exceptional sound quality, comfort, and versatility, making it a great choice for audiophiles who want a premium listening experience on the go. Its blend of wired and wireless capabilities, combined with a mature design, makes it an excellent all-around performer.
Video review
Our take on the brand
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
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T+A
Solitaire T
1700
1700
/
17
Reviews
From the first day the Solitaire T was developed with a single goal in mind: to blur the distinctions between audiophile, working and travel headphones by making the values and convictions which are the hallmark of every T+A product accessible in almost every situation in life.
Their transducer system is a completely new development, capable of reproducing the most subtle nuances in audiophile quality in active and passive mode alike, while the passive insulation on its own is sufficient to push the outside world into the background. When combined with active background noise suppression, which can be switched on as required, unwanted sounds disappear completely behind the music.
The pearl-blasted aluminium components are machined from solid, and are much more than a design statement: they are so robust and durable that they ensure the headphones will remain their owner's companion for years. At the same time they emphasise in a subtle but distinctive manner the product's close relationship with our Solitaire P reference headphones.
Like its physical design, the Solitaire T's inputs are designed with one aspect in mind: versatility. The Solitaire T places no restrictions on its user, as they feature signal transfer via totally symmetrical passive and active analogue inputs as well as USB C and the very highest-quality wireless Bluetooth standards; the design maximises the potential of every imaginable music source.
T+A is a hifi brand that combines transistor and valve technologies in their HV-Series amplifiers, using high voltage for linear performance, while their A 200 Power Amplifier uses PURIFI Eigentakt technology for low distortion regardless of speaker load.
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Product Strengths
- Impressive sound quality bridges the gap between wired and wireless performance
- It is a versatile product that can be used as a passive headphone, a USB DAC, or a Bluetooth headphone
- High build quality, with premium materials like milled aluminum contributing to a robust and luxurious feel
- Comfortable to wear for extended periods
- Long battery life, especially in standard mode—up to 70 hours
Product Considerations
- The fit may not be ideal for those with wider heads
- The treble response could be sweeter
- The active noise cancellation may not be class-leading compared to some competitors
- The volume in wireless mode may not be loud enough for some listeners
- Soundstage presentation feels intimate compared to full-sized reference headphones
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Mark Levinson No.5909: The Solitaire T has more detail and better organization, though the No. 5909 has a bigger, more spacious presentation
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins PX8: The noise cancelling of the PX8 is better
- Vs Focal Celestee: The Solitaire T is comparable when used as a passive wired headphone
Takeaway: The T+A Solitaire T is a versatile and well-built headphone that offers high-quality sound in both wired and wireless modes, making it a great choice for audiophiles on the go or those who want one set of headphones for all situations. Listeners can enjoy music in a lot of different ways with these, and they sound very good.
Video review
Our take on the brand
T+A is a hifi brand that combines transistor and valve technologies in their HV-Series amplifiers, using high voltage for linear performance, while their A 200 Power Amplifier uses PURIFI Eigentakt technology for low distortion regardless of speaker load.
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Campfire Audio
Astrolith
2199
2199
/
13
Reviews
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.
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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.
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What competes at this price?
Moondrop
Variations
599
/
Released
2021
Electrostatic driver + Dynamic driver + Balanced armature hybrid drivers, with the excellent physical filter structure manufactured by 3d printing and the frequency division circuit, shows a perfect harmonious timbre.
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent bass response, especially in the sub-bass frequencies, providing a clean and distinct bass experience.
- Well-tuned treble response with good extension, creating a smooth and enjoyable high-frequency experience.
- Very good detail retrieval for its price point, considered one of the most resolving sets in its price range.
- Cohesive sound signature with the tribrid driver system working harmoniously, providing a balanced listening experience.
- Solid build quality with a unique and appealing design using 3D printed resin and a stainless steel faceplate.
Product Considerations
- Midrange can be forward and shouty, especially in louder environments, potentially causing fatigue for some listeners.
- Lower midrange can lean on the thinner side, making notes sound crisp, but potentially anemic for some.
- Soundstage is good, but not the widest, with some cheaper IEMs offering a wider soundstage experience.
- Fit can be an issue for those with smaller ears due to the larger size.
- The lack of sizzle in the upper midrange to highs makes the Variations slightly dull for some listeners.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Moondrop Blessing 2/Dusk: Considered an upgrade, offering better bass texture and treble extension.
- Vs. Dunu SA6: More aggressive, while the SA6 offers a smoother, more laid-back presentation.
- Vs. Shure EJ07M: More technical with better detail retrieval, while the EJ07M has a smoother presentation.
- Vs. ThieAudio Monarch/Clairvoyance: Considered on par or better in technicalities.
- Vs. Sennheiser IE900: The IE900 has better bass response.
Takeaway: The Moondrop Variations are a solid choice for those seeking a well-built IEM with excellent bass response and a smooth, extended treble. Its detailed sound and unique design make it a worthwhile consideration for many listeners.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
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Moondrop
Illumination
799
/
Released
2020
MOONDROP ILLUMINATION is a premium dynamic driver in-ear monitor engineered with a titanium alloy cavity, patented acoustic coupling structure, and advanced driver technology. Designed for audiophiles, it provides high efficiency, ultra-low distortion, and accurate frequency response with elegant craftsmanship and luxury-grade materials.
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very good treble detail and decent midrange technicalities, creating a good sense of physicality
- Achieves a natural timbre and decay throughout the frequency response, surpassing balanced armature configurations
- A tuning that is fairly neutral with an emphasis on the upper base and lower mids, which reviewers have found to be well-tuned
- Excellent sound clarity and dynamics provide an immersive listening experience
- A rich, laid-back signature is especially good for vocals, acoustic instruments, and live recordings
Product Considerations
- Lacks soundstage and a sense of space, offering a more intimate rather than spacious presentation
- Bass detail and texture are not as strong compared to some lower-priced IEMs
- At higher volumes, the sound can be aggressive, and the upper midrange can be harsh with certain sources
- Sound quality can be strongly source-dependent, with warm amps generally preferred
- Haptic feel isn't significantly different from Moondrop's budget or mid-tier offerings, and the included accessories are mediocre for its price range
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Sennheiser HD650/HD6XX: Tuning is comparable to these over-ear headphones
- Moondrop SSP: The Illumination has a better timbre and larger soundstage
Takeaway: The Moondrop Illumination offers a natural and detailed sound with excellent clarity, making music come alive. If one appreciates well-tuned IEMs with a focus on timbre and a comfortable fit, the Illumination could be a great choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
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Moondrop
Darksaber
899
/
Released
2023
DARKSABER integrates a dual dynamic driver system with 8 balanced armature drivers in a 3-way crossover. The design incorporates horizontally opposed 10mm dynamic units for controlled bass, 4 customized mid-range BA drivers for detail, and 4 Knowles SWFK tweeter BA drivers for extended treble. With its 22Ω impedance, 128dB sensitivity, and frequency response up to 41kHz, DARKSABER offers audiophiles an IEM that balances technical excellence with engaging musicality.
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Video review
Our take on the brand
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
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Moondrop
Meteor
549
/
Released
2024
A Journey of Billions of Years, Traveling through the stars - Meteorites carry with them a special texture, distinctive pattern formed by the extraterrestrial minerals iron grain stone and taenite.
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Treble is precise, refined, and smooth without being too energetic
- Vocals sound very clean, forward, and clear, especially female vocals
- Has a spacious and immersive soundstage with good height and depth
- Smooth and natural timbre
Product Considerations
- Bass is tame, light, and somewhat constrained
- Fit can be tricky, especially for smaller ears, due to the IEM's size and thickness
- Can sound shouty, especially on energetic tracks and at higher volumes because of a boost in the 1-3k region
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Meteor is a sidegrade compared to the Moondrop Dusk, and the Dusk may be preferred for K-pop, J-pop, and pop due to being more engaging and having more low-end
- The Moondrop Meteor is a worse version of the Moondrop Variations
Takeaway: The Moondrop Meteor delivers a refined and enjoyable listening experience, particularly for those who prioritize smooth treble and clear vocals. Its spacious soundstage and unique design make it an interesting option for audiophiles seeking a balanced sound signature.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
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Moondrop
Illustrious
899
/
Released
2025
Reference-Standard Professional Flagship Successor featuring a legendary 11mm Patented Dynamic Driver with TAC Diamond-coated Dome Composite Diaphragm.
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Video review
Our take on the brand
Moondrop is a hifi audio brand with distinctive driver combinations, including tribrid designs that incorporate multiple planar drivers in single IEMs. They are known for offering exceptional performance at affordable prices, as well as unique features such as their DSP-in-the-cable solution the FreeDSP Pro.
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