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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.

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.

Manufacturer details

  • Driver: 10mm + 7.8mm Dynamic Driver
  • Diaphragm: Polyurethane Suspension LCP Liquid Crystal Composite Diaphragm
  • Impedance: 17.5Ω±15% @1KHz
  • Sensitivity: 117.5dB/Vrms @1KHz
  • THD: <1%@1khz
  • Frequency Response Range: 20-40.5kHz (IEC61094, Free Field)
  • Effective Frequency Response Range: 20-20kHz (IEC60318-4, -3dB)
TRUTHEAR x Crinacle ZERO:RED In-ear Monitor Adopt dual polyurethane suspension composite liquid-crystal dome diaphragm N52 Rubidium magnet double-cavity internal magnetic circuit dynamic driver
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:

GATE

  • Positioning: A cost-effective dynamic driver in-ear headphone.
  • Description: Features a 10mm dynamic driver with a carbon LCP diaphragm and optimized internal magnetic circuit for clear high frequencies and controlled bass. Compared to other models in the lineup, its simple design and affordable build make it ideal for small-room listening on a tight budget.

ZERO:RED

  • Positioning: A dual dynamic driver earphone offering enhanced frequency division.
  • Description: Uses a dual configuration with 10mm and 7.8mm dynamic drivers paired with a high-precision DLP-3D printed cavity that boosts bass punch and smooth treble with excellent phase consistency. Compared to the entry-level GATE, ZERO:RED provides improved performance suited for longer sessions and users who need more technical sophistication without reaching the cost of hybrid multi-driver models.

HEXA

  • Positioning: A high-performance hybrid in-ear monitor featuring one dynamic and three balanced armature drivers.
  • Description: Uses a combination of a 10mm dynamic driver with a polyurethane suspension composite diaphragm and a DLP-3D printed cavity to ensure a natural sound balance with refined bass, mids, and highs. Compared to the simpler designs of GATE and ZERO:RED, HEXA offers more advanced driver integration.

PURE

  • Positioning: A well-balanced hybrid earphone optimized for precise frequency crossover and resolution.
  • Description: Integrates one dynamic driver with three balanced armature drivers along with a customized high-frequency BA and an accurately printed DLP cavity to achieve refined mids and highs with improved detail. Relative to HEXA, PURE focuses on tighter crossover and damping.

NOVA

  • Positioning: A premium hybrid three-way crossover in-ear monitor combining one dynamic with four balanced armature drivers.
  • Description: Features an advanced three-way crossover design that uses a composite driver system and an optimized dynamic driver paired with dual BA modules, supported by DLP-3D printed cavities for enhanced frequency separation. Compared to the lower-priced models like HEXA and PURE, NOVA delivers superior sonic clarity and improved bass detail.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
797
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
14
Founding Year
2022

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.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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From our interview with
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Truthear

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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

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