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.
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.
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Darksaber
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
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Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Model: MOONDROP Dark Saber (2DD + 8BA In-Ear Monitor)
- Driver: Horizontally Opposed Dual Dynamic Drivers Unit System(2DD*10mm) + Customized Mid-Range Balanced Armature Drivers(4BA) + Knowles SWFK Tweeter Balanced Armature Drivers(4BA)
- Impedance: 22Ω±15% (@1kHz)
- Sensitivity: 128dB/Vrms (@1kHz)
- THD: THD@1kHz≤1%
- Frequency Response Range: 7Hz-41kHz (IEC61094, Free Field)
- Effective Frequency Range: 20-20kHz (IEC60318-4, 3dB)
- Cable Jack: 0.78-2pin
- Plug: 3.5mm Stereo Single Ended
Description
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.
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.
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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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What if you spend more?
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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.
Product Page
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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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HIFIMAN
Svanar
1999
1999
/
13
Reviews
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.
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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.
Product Page
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Letshuoer
Cadenza
1999
1999
/
13
Reviews
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.
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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.
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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.
Expand Details
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.
Expand Details
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
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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Thieaudio
Monarch MKIII
999
/
Released
2023
At their times, the original Monarch and the Monarch MKII set new standards for best-in-class performance in the global IEM industry. Not only did it redefine the price-to-performance bracket, but it forever changed how IEM manufacturers engineer and tune IEM's. Keeping with the times, the Monarch has undergone another revision to revamp its technical and tonal performance.
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
- 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
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