Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • 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.

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

MACH 60

reviews

[{"title":"My reference IEM just got beaten! Westone Mach 60 & Mach 80 review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tr166mtMc4","source":"Passion for Sound","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Westone Mach 60 - Reproducing the Tracks True Guts - Honest Audiophile Impressions","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JprvsjZEb24","source":"Passion for Sound","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Westone Audio Mach 60 Review - A TINY Premium 6-BA IEM","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAlLG2QbEL0","source":"the Honest Audiophile","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Westone Audio MACH 60 In Ear Monitor | REVIEW","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7humDwi-18","source":"Corega BR","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"High Quality 6 DRIVER In Ear Monitors - Westone Mach 60 Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4Zp6dNnYsc","source":"GadgetryTech","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Westone MACH 60 Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwpEtz9SFOc","source":"Scott Uhl","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Westone MACH 60 - Reference Grade Tonality & Timbre - My NEW Favorite IEM","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDI2GoF-y18","source":"Scott Uhl","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Westone MACH 60","link":"https://www.ear-fidelity.com/westone-mach-60","source":"ear-fidelity.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Westone Mach 60: Pleasant Sound","link":"https://eliseaudio.com/en-us/blogs/impressions-and-reviews/westone-mach-60-pleasant-sound?srsltid=AfmBOorT0mJU3blOd1XiXGS5245WQRCcOpgUuVu5EbAdZAHd3Ed4GWTf","source":"eliseaudio.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Westone Audio Mach 60 review","link":"https://www.musicradar.com/reviews/westone-audio-mach-60-review","source":"musicradar.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Westone Audio MACH 60 Review","link":"https://headfonics.com/westone-audio-mach-60-review","source":"headfonics.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Westone MACH 60 Review","link":"https://majorhifi.com/westone-mach-60-review","source":"majorhifi.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

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:

  • Westone Audio's IEMs, particularly the MACH series, prioritize long-term wearability through an ergonomic design and exceptionally lightweight components, distinguishing them from competitors that prioritize aesthetics or heavier materials.
  • Westone Audio's MACH series products are each voiced with a specific sonic signature in mind, effectively creating a line-up with tailored options for diverse listening preferences and professional monitoring needs.

MACH-10

  • Position: Entry-level line, designed for basic listening and affordability.
  • Description: Offers a straightforward design with standard driver technology that covers essential audio needs. Compared to higher-end models, it has a simpler build and fewer advanced features, making it best for small rooms or users with a tight budget.

MACH-40

  • Position: A mid-range offering aimed at improved performance without a high cost.
  • Description: Delivers a tuned driver setup with clearer sound detail and a wider frequency range than the entry-level option. Compared to the MACH-10, it uses better component quality and builds a bridge toward more refined technical features seen in higher models.

MACH-60

  • Position: A mid-tier product that elevates performance with enhanced driver technology.
  • Description: Features improved build quality and refined audio clarity with lower distortion drivers that set it apart from the lower models. Compared to the MACH-40, it adds further technical improvements.

MACH-70

  • Position: A high-end model that delivers advanced technical performance.
  • Description: Incorporates acoustic features and refined materials that result in more precise sound imaging and better isolation than the mid-tier units. Compared to the MACH-60, it benefits from additional driver refinements and a more robust design.

MACH-80

  • Position: The flagship line designed for top-tier audio performance.
  • Description: Offers premium material quality and the latest driver technology to ensure clear and balanced sound reproduction that surpasses all other models in the lineup. Compared to the MACH-70, it delivers the most sophisticated engineering and functionality.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
820
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
15
Founding Year
1959

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.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
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Brand Page

Used

Westone Audio

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What if you spend more?

Product image
Westone Audio
MACH 80
1231
1231
/
8
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.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a 'smooth, punchy, and crisp listening experience that is perfect for any musician, audiophile, or studio engineer'
  • The sound is 'transparent, resolving, deep reaching, airy sounding, having an amazing note separation, shrinking the gap between tiny IEMs and also medium sized open-back headphones'
  • The body is much smaller than usual, made out of hard plastics, not metal, so it's barely felt in the hand and in the ears
  • Transparent, resolving, deep reaching, airy sounding, having an amazing note separation
  • Manages to balance the frequency response without becoming boomy in the bass, muddy in the mid-range, or ear slashing in the treble

Product Considerations

  • A reviewer wished for a slightly stronger kick and slam in the bass
  • The upper midrange could use a boost
  • Proprietary nozzle head limits ear tip choices
  • Experienced a gentle roll-off in the upper midrange that removed some of the sweetness
  • System matching depends on personal preference, but the product should not be used with ultra-linear gear nor amplifiers that heavily rely on negative feedback to bury the noise

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Versus the Sennheiser IE900, the MACH 80 had a clear opinion on the truth, showing the midrange that was missing from the IE900s' version
  • Compared to the HIFIMAN Svanar, the MACH 80 is a more spacious-sounding IEM that adds more space between each note and the sound is more cohesive, closer to a real-life performance
  • Compared to the HiBy Zeta, the MACH 80 has an even frequency response going with a reference tuning, while never sounding clinical or harsh
  • Compared to the Westone MACH 70, the MACH 80 is the most linear offering of the Mach family, whereas the MACH 70 comes with a smoother and rounder response and offers a more musical approach
  • While the MACH 80’s bass is considerably less in quantity than the FAudio Mezzo LE, it feels much more nimble

Takeaway: The Westone MACH 80 is an IEM that provides a balanced and accurate sound, great for audiophiles and professionals. The IEMs are lightweight, comfortable for long listening sessions, and great for hearing music the way it was meant to be heard.

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
Westone Audio
MACH 70
1077
1077
/
7
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

  • Strong bass impact with plenty of energy in the low end, approaching dynamic driver performance.
  • Clear vocal and treble performance.
  • Wide soundstage.
  • Highly detailed output sounds resolving even with low-powered sources.
  • Comfortable and lightweight design.

Product Considerations

  • Aesthetics and build quality may not be as impressive as other IEMs in its price range, the shell feels somewhat plasticky.
  • The included cable is unbalanced (3.5mm) and could be more robust.
  • The fit may cause fatigue after a while.
  • Bass does not have much rumble.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs BGVP DM9: The MACH 70 is a small but significant step up, with superior resolution, but the DM9 has tauter bass.
  • Vs Campfire Audio Andromeda: The MACH 70 is better, with the Andromeda having great high-end detail but a metallic timbre and less low-end slam.
  • Vs Sennheiser IE900: It is a pick-em, with the MACH 70 having superior resolution and low-level nuance, and the Sennheiser leading on purity of tone.
  • Vs Westone Audio MACH 80: The MACH 70 is more V-shaped, while the MACH 80 is flatter and more reference-tuned, the MACH 70 is more sensitive and has bigger bass.

Takeaway: The MACH 70 is an engaging IEM with a bass-forward sound signature and clear highs, suitable for those who enjoy a dynamic and detailed listening experience. It is also easy to drive and comfortable to wear for extended periods.

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
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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Westone Audio
MACH 50
615
/
Released
2022
The MACH 50 combines deep, wide mids and lows with sparkling highs to create a rich and immersive listening experience. Perfect for drummers, bass players, and DJs, its five-driver system ensures impressive detail and clarity. The MACH 50 is designed to satisfy any music lover’s appetite for a smooth, beefy sound.
Check Amazon
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

Our Summary

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
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.
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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
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sennheiser
IE 600
899
/
Released
2022
Simply beautiful sound, and the lengths Sennheiser will go to achieve it — that is the story of the IE 600. These in-ear devices not only reproduce the detail and emotion of a recording, they transcend it. Because each earphone is a masterpiece. From the hand-finished amorphous metal housing to high-end audio components developed and made by Sennheiser, everything is manufactured to the strictest tolerances.
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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

Our Summary

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
FIIO
FH9
558
/
Released
2021
FiiO's new flagship hybrid IEMs, the FH9, is the result of two years' worth of intense research on how to fully take advantage of the strengths of hybrid IEMs and push the boundaries of what they can sound like. This 1 dynamic 6 BA driver design (7 in total) features a 2nd generation 13.6mm DLC diaphragm dynamic bass driver fully capable of extending to the lowest frequencies with ample punch. Mid and high frequencies are handled by a custom 6 Knowles BA setup that accurately reproduces every last musical detail.
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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

  • 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
Kinera
URD
650
/
Released
2022
URD bass uses titanium crystal diaphragm coaxial double dynamic, through careful tuning, the characteristics of deep diving and fast transient response of this unit are brought into play. The high frequency adopts the Sonion new generation EST65DB01 composite double electrostatic unit to make the treble possess stronger ductility. The mid-range is connected by the dynamic driver 11021 customized by Kinera.
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Kinera is a hifi headphone brand that builds each product around mythology-driven design language, weaving Norse and Chinese lore into concepts and aesthetics through hand-painted artisan resin faceplates where no two units look identical. The brand pioneered EST tribrid tuning with dual Sonion ESTs as a signature and developed proprietary Square Planar Driver (SPD) technology under their Celest line.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Smooth, natural, and easy to listen to sound signature that is not fatiguing
  • Impressive and beautiful design, with unique 3D faceplate and premium feel
  • Good build quality and comfortable ergonomic fit for most ears
  • High-quality modular cable with interchangeable plugs (3.5mm, 2.5mm, 4.4mm)
  • Full-bodied vocals and a versatile sound that works well with various genres

Product Considerations

  • Can be considered large and thick, protruding from the ears
  • Bass can lack definition, separation, and impact for some listeners
  • Stock cable may not unleash the full potential of the IEMs, and an upgraded cable is recommended by some reviewers
  • Midrange separation could be better for some users

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. the FiiO FH7: The URD is less aggressive, more charming, and has a wider soundstage, the FH7 has faster, more controlled bass but can be fatiguing
  • Vs. the DITA Audio Twins Fealty: The URD prioritizes weight, soft tonal balance, and timbre density, the Fealty emphasizes amplified resolution and detailed texture

Takeaway: The Kinera URD is a beautiful and comfortable IEM that offers a smooth and natural sound, making it a great choice for long listening sessions across many music genres. It stands out with its design, accessories, and non-fatiguing sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Kinera is a hifi headphone brand that builds each product around mythology-driven design language, weaving Norse and Chinese lore into concepts and aesthetics through hand-painted artisan resin faceplates where no two units look identical. The brand pioneered EST tribrid tuning with dual Sonion ESTs as a signature and developed proprietary Square Planar Driver (SPD) technology under their Celest line.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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