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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
- 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.
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
Nova
reviews
[{"title":"TruthEar Nova - Moondrop Variations on a budget","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TS4mSHPeOqU","source":"The Headphone Show","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"The \"Scientifically Superior\" IEMs | Truthear Nova","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJZZP-jzW-U","source":"The Headphone Show","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"TRUTHEAR NOVA Gamer Review - Bassy Brilliance | Before You Buy","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZX-4YKJh8oA","source":"Hangout․Audio","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Truthear Nova REVIEW!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzoAlSaM3oc","source":"Hangout․Audio","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"⚠️Before You BUY...Truthear NOVA HONEST Review (vs EM6L, HEXA, and more)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5vwbllX6Xa8","source":"Wasabi","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Truthear NOVA Review | Or is it A Black Hole?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vLRK1Fbu9Q","source":"Wasabi","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Truthear Nova Review: Gaming Audio Weapon!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXVk31b-gbw","source":"Super* Review","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Budget Goodness: Truthear Nova & Fiio K11 Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opiIaxEByiQ","source":"Super* Review","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Truthear NOVA:ULTIMATE REVIEW //An Absolute Winner //","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azgKgkkPspc","source":"Jays Audio","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"TruthEar Nova - HodgePodge Presentations Are... - Honest Audiophile Impressions","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BA6rhSRuuFg","source":"Prime Audio Reviews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"CAN WE STOP? Truthear Nova Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P_ILUsunKQ","source":"Prime Audio Reviews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"The Truthear Nova Is the BEST IEM IN THE WORLD","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqAMZGQ6_rM","source":"Paolo Cee","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Truthear Nova: On a Theme","link":"https://headphones.com/blogs/reviews/truthear-nova-on-a-theme?srsltid=AfmBOoq1waeG21b_K_7AxHx30IpNs9s3vWzUmhOXWM5VHeJGJdEcvbHO","source":"headphones.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"TRUTHEAR NOVA Review","link":"https://headfonics.com/truthear-nova-review","source":"headfonics.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Truthear Nova Review - Hitting The Mark","link":"https://www.audioreviews.org/truthear-nova-review","source":"audioreviews.org","datePublished":""},{"title":"Truthear Nova Review","link":"https://mobileaudiophile.com/in-ear-earphones-iem-iems-reviews/truthear-nova-review-seans-take","source":"mobileaudiophile.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Truthear Nova Review | Dusk-Like Harman","link":"https://mccullough.audio/truthear-nova-review-dusk-like-harman","source":"mccullough.audio","datePublished":""}]
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
- Sensitivity: 123 dB/Vrms @ 1 kHz
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): ≤1% @ 1 kHz (94 dB)
- Frequency Response: 8 – 40 kHz (IEC61094, Free Field)
- Effective Frequency Response: 20 – 20 kHz (IEC60318-4, –3 dB)
- Dynamic Driver Diaphragm: PU suspension + LCP dome composite diaphragm
Description
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.
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:
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Select product comparisons
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.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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Truthear
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What if you spend more?
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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
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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
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
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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.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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.
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Product Page
What competes at this price?
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.
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
Product Page
Product Page
FIIO
FH5S/FH5S Pro
254
/
Released
2021
Thanks to the excellent designs and great sound, FiiO balanced armature and dynamic driver hybrid earphones have always been highly praised and become best sellers due to positive word-of-mouth. The all-new rookie FH5s is a true upgrade from the veteran FH5, with significant advancements and innovations in all aspects including appearance, comfort, sound quality. The student has now surpassed the master.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed and clean sound, putting plenty of micro-details on the foreground
- Good build quality and comfortable design
- Swappable audio plugs included
- Tuning switches featured
- Open and wide soundstage
Product Considerations
- Treble can be a bit sharp and metallic sounding
- A dedicated DAP, Bluetooth dongle, or external DAC/Amp is needed to shine
- Below-average noise isolation due to its semi-open nature
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Approaches the FiiO FH7 closely, but is not exactly as punchy and engaging when bass notes are coming to play, FH7 has a better midrange rendition
- The FH5s gives a harder edge to treble notes, but at the same time creates a wider and more spacious soundstage
- The FiiO FD5 emphasizes warmth, smoothness, and a lush sound with prominent bass and midrange, where the FH5S has a more textured midrange, and a cleaner bass with less emphasis
Takeaway: The FiiO FH5S provides an outstanding unboxing experience and impressive features, along with a clear sound. The IEM allows for long listening sessions.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
FIIO
FH3
119
/
Released
2020
One of FiiO's classic earphones is getting a thorough upgrade to the next level! The FH3 utilizes an expertly tuned hybrid system of a 10mm beryllium-plated diaphragm dynamic driver + 2 Knowles BA paired with a high-purity monocrystalline silver-plated copper cable for a truly excellent high-fidelity sound.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Well-constructed with a nice design, comfortable for long listening sessions with no rough edges
- Versatile IEM suitable for various genres with good sub-bass and treble extension, and uncongested vocals
- Good soundstage, wider than average for IEMs under $150 or even $200
- Package offers great value with a wide selection of ear tips and carry cases
- Good imaging, fast attack, and nuanced texture
Product Considerations
- Mid-bass can feel textureless with weak details
- Some reviewers find the bass boomy, lacking articulation, and being slightly out of balance with the other drivers
- The cable may have a memory, not hanging straight, and being somewhat rubbery/stiff
- Has a more intimate rather than wide-open soundstage
- There is fairly significant driver flex
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the FH5, the FH5 is more detailed, neutral, and cleaner sounding overall, while the FH3 is more V-shaped and fun to listen to
- Compared to the Moondrop Starfield, the FH3 has much stronger imaging and separation, while the Starfield is smoother and more relaxing with a more forward upper mid-range
Takeaway: The FH3 is a great choice if someone wants fun sound and good soundstage in an IEM at a reasonable price. This IEM provides a great listening experience that will not be fatiguing.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
FIIO
FD5
409
/
Released
2020
The FD5 features a Beryllium-coated DLC diaphragm with front acoustic prism, rear volcanic field system, and semi-open acoustic design. It includes interchangeable sound tubes and audio jacks.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Cohesive sound due to single dynamic driver design.
- Nostalgic design reminiscent of 1940s with beautifully built stainless steel and chrome finish.
- Comes with a high-quality 8-core silver coated copper cable with swappable plugs (3.5mm, 2.5mm balanced, 4.4mm Pentaconn).
- Full-bodied and punchy bass, warm and well-defined mids, and smooth, liquid highs.
- Wide soundstage compared to other IEMs, with instruments rendered with natural timbre and great separation.
Product Considerations
- Treble can get shouty and harsh at higher volumes, possibly requiring longer burn-in.
- Stock sound signature is a bass-heavy v-shape, which might veil the mid-range for some listeners.
- Included tri-flange tips and interchangeable tubes may not significantly change the sound.
- Semi-open design offers mediocre isolation, making it unsuitable for very noisy environments.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs FD3: FD5 is a little more refined and has sufficient detail for the price, whereas FD3 is a little too veiled.
- Vs Softears Twilight/Kingfisher: Softears Twilight and Kingfisher completely outperform the FD5 in sheer level of tuning and detail.
- Vs Letshuoer S12: The S12 tunes better with a bass that is just as strong as the FT5, while not bleeding into the mid-range in any way.
- Vs SIVGA Nightingale: The Nightingale has a somewhat larger sound with more air, and the imaging is more precise, but the FD5 has a fuller sounding midrange and stronger midbass presence.
- Vs FiiO FH5S: FD5 is thick, warm, smooth, and lush, the FH5S offers crisper highs, a more textured midrange, and a tighter bass with less fullness.
Takeaway: The FD5 offers a cohesive and nostalgic listening experience. With great build and an included modular cable, this IEM is a good choice for listeners who enjoy a bass-forward sound with musicality.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
Moondrop
Aria2
99
/
Released
2023
The MOONDROP Aria 2 is a dynamic driver in-ear monitor crafted with a zinc alloy cavity and brass nozzle. Designed for accurate sound reproduction, it provides a balanced and engaging audio profile with low distortion and durable build quality.
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
- Improved build quality with a new alloy casing that feels solid and durable
- Comes with a high-quality cable, including swappable jacks, supporting 3.5mm TRS and 4.4mm balanced ends
- Balanced U-shaped signature that works well with many genres
- Improved clarity and lower distortion compared to its predecessors, enhancing the overall listening experience
- Good soundstage and imaging for a sub-$100 IEM
Product Considerations
- Weight (11.8g per earbud) can lead to discomfort over time for some users
- Upper mids can sometimes sound a bit shouty
- Some reviewers find the bass response leaner compared to the original Aria
- Stock tips are not great and reduce clarity
- Some listeners may be disappointed by the boosted treble prominence over the bass
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Moondrop Aria 1: Deeper bass, better midrange clarity, and improved soundstage and imaging
- Vs. Moondrop Aria Snow: Deeper bass and more presence in both sub-bass and mid-bass
- Vs. Truthear ZERO: RED: Better build quality, while the ZERO: RED is more technically capable with better clarity
- Vs. Moondrop KATO: Measures essentially identically to the KATO, but the KATO is clearly more detailed and technical
Takeaway: The Moondrop Aria 2 is a well-built IEM that provides good sound quality and useful features. It's a solid choice for anyone looking for an enjoyable listening experience, especially as an entry point into higher-performance IEMs or as a companion to more analytical sets.
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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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