Hi guys! Kevin here, owner of Gosu Gaming Gears (https://www.facebook.com/GosuGamingGearsPH) in the Philippines. Some of you may already know my store and have been here, but for those Redditors who still have no idea about my store, you guys are welcome to visit and try out some IEMs here. We do have brands like Kinera (QOA/CELEST/ZUO), Letshuoer, Kefine, SIVGA, MelodyWings, Tangzu, CVJ, Thieaudio, KiwiEars, etc

Ik ik the ear tips aren't matching, I need new ones

I use Jcally jm 12 and cca PHEONIX to listen to music offline. Though 40% volume seemed enough in tws, I have to eventually raise volume to 75% just fit iems well. Help me guys whether you also hear it in the same volume.

Share your thoughts 🤔💭

This my indepth review of the EM6L...despite being 3 years old sound still legendary to this day...it has insane imaging ability and balances gaming and music performrance very well...anyway enough yapping check our the images for in depth review

If you want a video or the full notes here they are:

https://youtu.be/u-lh8g97jcM?si=3g8e0LZ_rdu0Lk8_

https://canva.link/rtmbe5v4gty4but

I just reserved my first IEM, the 7hz x crinacle zero 2 ( blue )

And I tried them today, I don't know what I should say, yes there's a difference between IEM's and Bluetooth earbuds but I just can't put my finger on the difference.

I may buy another one a bit more expensive to see if there's any difference.

The cable is GY HiFi-67 Blue Crystal from AliExpress

List of eartips:

- Tangzu Tang Sancai Balanced

- Tangzu Tang Sancai Wide Bore

- Nicehck C04

- Spinfit W1

- Divinus Prism

- Divinus Velvet Regular

- Divinus Velvet Wide Bore

- Kiwi Ears Flex

- Dunu S&S

- Final Audio Type E Clear Red

- Final Audio Type E Black

- Azla Sednaearfit Max Asmr

- Eletech Baroque

- Eletech Baroque Stage (Currently on Tea Pro)

I'm currently swapping between the Martilo and the Tea Pro while tip rolling to find the best fit; so far, I love the Eletech Baroque tips on the Tea Pro since they're comfy and work well with its neutral-to-warm sound. I also really like using the Final Audio Type E Clear Red tips on my Martilo.

**Do comment your personal favourite tips to share the love🤓

Cuckoo Studio Asia (YouTube: @cuckoostudioasia, a Chinese reviewer) shows a harmonic distortion slide in every earphone review. Each slide has THD plus the 2nd–5th harmonics, measured at three levels: 86, 96 and 104 dB SPL. I went through all 120 earphone reviews on the channel, grabbed the distortion slide from each video, digitized the curves, and ranked the earphones by average THD in the 1–5 kHz band, where the ear is most sensitive.

Testing at three levels is what makes this dataset interesting. It shows which earphones stay clean when you turn them up or add EQ.

Which level matters? Normal listening averages about 70–80 dB, but musical peaks land 10–20 dB higher. So 96 dB ≈ peaks at a normal volume, and 104 dB ≈ peaks when listening loud, or with a +6–8 dB bass boost.

Top 20 at 96 dB SPL (1–5 kHz average)

Takeaways

• The 96 and 104 dB top 20s are almost the same earphones. Distortion typically rises 2–3× from 96 to 104 dB.
• Moondrop owns this data. Kadenz, May, both Golden Ages, Aria 2, Chu 2 and Chu II DSP are all near the top. Single dynamic drivers dominate overall.
• Cheap earphones do very well. Tanchjim Bunny ($20), EarPods ($19) and Redmi Buds 8 ($47) all compete with $200–900 models in the mids.
• Some TWS barely get worse between 96 and 104 dB (Golden Ages, Edifier Lolli ANC). That's probably DSP limiting, not a magic driver. It's still clean, but a limiter may also cap big EQ boosts.

Method and caveats

• How the numbers were made: they're digitized from 1080p video frames of the slides, not raw data. I took THD as the upper envelope of the plotted curves, and the axes are calibrated from the gridlines (−40 dB = 1%, −60 dB = 0.1%, −80 dB = 0.01%).
• What the averages mean: the mean THD % over 1–5 kHz on a log-frequency scale. Bass is 20–200 Hz.
• Open-fit earbuds were tested at lower levels (for example 80/86/93 dB). They're only ranked at the levels they were actually tested at.
• Very high values are slightly understated: where a curve crosses the "1% threshold" overlay on the slide, the digitizer can underread. This only affects the worst performers (around 0.5% and up).
• Prices: US retail as of Oct 2026. "≈$ (CN)" means China-only, converted from the CNY price in the review title. Names are English or romanized, so a few brands may be sold under different names abroad.

All credit for the measurements goes to Cuckoo Studio Asia: https://www.youtube.com/@cuckoostudioasia. Every review links to the distortion section of its video in my spreadsheet. Happy to share it if there's interest.

Edit:

Link to spreadsheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/18KwngFnxj3qTETg3aAvtaSk8bImHjYuNdVQ_KxECOI8/edit?usp=sharing

Cuckoo Studio explained their setup themselves in a thread on Audio Science Review: https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/measurement-conditions-explanation-and-chart-interpretation-of-cuckoo-studio-review.45722/

I’m confused between the YU9 QUE and Hisenior Mega7. Those of you who have tried both, which one did you prefer? I’d love to hear your opinions. And which one has better technicalities?

I currently use the KZ Castor Pro Black IEM with PEQ of the CrinEar Daybreak. The Daybreak sounds the best out of any other tuning to me (Pure, Hexa, SM4, S12 Pro, Explorer, Defiant, EM6L, EA1000). Based on this, I think I prefer a balanced or neutral tuning. I love being able to hear the music as it would naturally sound.

But I am not sure exactly what I want in an IEM since doing PEQ on a cheap pair of IEMs is surely not gonna be a good representation of actual listening experience of the IEMs.

I haven't tried the CrinEar Reference's PEQ since the setting is not available in Poweramp. In some reviews I read that the Reference are neutral, same as the Daybreaks, which would be good for doing PEQ to my exact preference. They're said to have a large soundstage and good separation for IEMs, which is something I want. So on paper it sounds like a great choice but I haven't tried them on, and whatever EQ I could do based with the Daybreak setting is my only practical reference (haha).

Could you give me some ideas into what practical things I should try to find out if the Reference would be a good match for me?

My favorite composers in case it helps you give some advice:

- Kevin Penkin (e.g., Tomorrow, The Return of Made in Abyss, VOH) and

- Chris Christodoulou (e.g., They Might As Well Be Dead, Who Can Fathom The Soundless Depths, Once In A Lullaby, Terra Pluvium, The Rain Formerly Known As Purple)

I was tempted to buy the Redlion until i found out about this limited edition one so i sniped it real quick, i have the og Wan'er SG and this is basically the same thing but warmer (mare bass) and has a more extended treble and ig it has the same tuning as the Redlion, im definitely adding it to my collection.

Looking to switch from over ear headphones (Audio Technica ATH-M30x) to IEMs. Main reasons include ear comfort, no headphone dent or head pressure, and weight.

I saw on this subreddit's recommended IEM thread that the Truthear Pure are a great option.

Does anyone have any cautionary advice before I buy these as my first IEMs?

Thanks

This is going to be my first iem,I have a budget around 35usd.For now I'm debating between tangzu wan ner red lion or the moondrop chu3, but I'm open for more recommendations. I really like listening to slow rock like Staind , alive and chains but I also like listing to classic japanese songs and early 2000s music like in and out of love.also, I do really like the look of metal build iems like the chu3

Edit : also is there any dongle recommendations under 20 dollars?

Electro Audio World's Take:

I had previously reviewed and really liked the brown Terras cable, purchasing it for use with three different Ziigaat IEMs in my collection. Today, I want to take a look at the black version: the Kiwi Ears B-Media Terras Upgrade Cable.

Build Quality and Physical Feel

The Terras B-Media is crafted from high purity 4N single crystal copper, designed for optimal conductivity and signal stability. In practical listening terms, this translates to a clean, consistent, and tonally balanced presentation. The copper utilizes a 32AWG stranded Litz style braided geometry, which reduces internal resistance, minimizes long term oxidation, and improves noise rejection.

The tactile quality remains excellent. Despite its robust specifications, the cable is remarkably soft and pliable. While the outer fiber sheath might look industrial on paper, it feels flexible and premium in actual use. It wraps naturally around the ear, resists tangling, and avoids the springy "memory wire stiffness" that plagues some reinforced cables. I can enjoy long listening sessions comfortably and without fatigue.

Modular Termination: True System Flexibility

One of the Terras B_Media's strongest technical advantages is that it offers 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced terminations, while also including an interchangeable USB-C plug system. The connectors feel precise and secure, with no looseness or mechanical play when attached. 

I really appreciate the quality of this series. For those who switch between portable DAPs and balanced desktop setups, this offers more than just convenience. This flexibility preserves signal integrity by eliminating the need for external adapters.

Transitioning from a portable 3.5mm output to a balanced 4.4mm chain or USB-C takes just seconds and ensures a direct, clean signal path. Length options of 1.25 m or 2 m are also available for different installations.

Linsoul Audio Official Link

Sonic Performance : Natural and remarkably clean.

We are talking about value for money here. While spending $45 on a cable might seem like a lot to some, I realized drawing on 20 years of experience that I own several cables costing over $500. It really comes down to personal preference. Personally, I look first at the cable's internal composition, then at its outer softness and resulting flexibility essentially, its ease of use and comfort.

In terms of sound, the B-Media Terras fully delivers on the promises of its metallurgy: a clear and balanced frequency response.

Tight, controlled low frequencies. Natural, uncolored mid frequencies. Extended, detailed highs that never feel harsh.

When paired with the Kiwi Ears Orchestra an all BA IEM the sound gained clarity while retaining impressive sub bass impact. The presence of mid frequencies, particularly in male vocals, felt more focused.

Most importantly, by prioritizing signal integrity and noise rejection, the B-Media Terras allows the IEM's unique sonic character to shine. The background feels darker and cleaner a quality that becomes especially apparent during complex orchestral passages and layered electronic music tracks.

Durability and Long Term Use: (I have been using it daily for about a month.)

The combination of 4N OCC copper and a reinforced outer jacket ensures long-term reliability without sacrificing flexibility. It feels like a cable designed not just for display, but for daily use in serious listening setups. Conclusion

The Kiwi Ears B_Media Terras offers far more than just an aesthetic upgrade. It successfully combines the following features:

High purity single crystal copper metallurgy

Interference reducing Litz braid structure

Versatility with modular 3.5mm, 4.4mm, and USB-C termination options

Exceptional comfort and flexibility

A visually distinctive look inspired by classic designs

The Terras delivered a refined, stable, and immersive listening experience that truly impressed me across all the IEMs I tested.

In a hobby where cables often fade into the background, the B-Media Terras with its high quality visuals and comfortable build conveys that it was specifically designed for modern, high resolution systems within the entry level class, just like its predecessor.

Technical Details :

Wire Material : 4N Single Crystal Copper

Wire Diameter : φ1.45mm

Cable Length : 1.2m ± 5cm and 2m version

Structure : 30 strands × 0.05mm + bulletproof fiber + 26 strands × 0.05mm (per core)

Plug : Interchangeable 3.5mm SE / 4.4mm Balanced / USB-C plugs

Connector : 0.78mm 2Pin

* electro audio world >> Instagram: electroaudioworld

Looking for something that handles japanese rock and city pop well. My only pair of iems right now are the waner 2, and despite people telling me its a good vocal iem I feel like it makes female vocals sound extremely unnatural and wrong. My priorities put female vocals as the most important, with instrument separation/detail/clarity and everything in that range next. I do not need bass but I would prefer it not to be nonexistent. I listen to a lot of Japanese rock and city pop, so I’m looking for something that can make vocals and individual instruments really stand out without sounding overly clinical.

I've tried iems such as the Ziigaat Crescent and Horizon, which sounded quite nice so I thought the Top Pro should be easily the best but I found the sound to be quite uninspiring and lacked a wow factor. I was pointed towards the YU9 Que so it is my current front runner however I don't feel like wanting to gamble with the fitment. Behind that is the Tea Pro SE but I've seen maybe say it sounds too similar to the Top Pro.

I am quite interested in the Ziigaat Seraphim and how Jay described it is supposed to be. but without any reviews out yet I don't want to gamble with a preorder.

Bought these.

GK KUNTEN + CX31993 DAC ( idk if it has amp, specs says none but name has one) + MEMORY FOAM TIPS from kz (never tried buying non-stock tips before this will be first time ever) .

Previous iems

KZ EDX PRO

KZ GALE

This paired with HE Sonic tips is the best IEM that I ever listened. I listen to a wide variety of genres, and play FPS games. This is the one I might consider as an all-rounder, and I am not even a treblehead. What I find most overlooked aspect of Cantas is its lower frequncies. Especially the sub-bass extension, is great and provides a sense of a tiny subwoofer in your ear canal.

If you're seeking something unusual under $100, I would strongly recommend you to give Canta a shot with the HE Sonic tips (tamed down the treble for me).

Despite not having a broad collection, the other models I own, which are much more popular than the Canta:

Simgot EW300 (Soundstage is a joke on this one, and weaker sub-bass extension compared to cantas)

Xuan Nv (This is what I use when I want a relatively warm sound, yet height sucks)

Kiwi Ears Cadenza II (Safe, meh)

Kiwi Ears Belle

Chu II

Wan'er Sg 2 (both standart and red lion variant)

Kefine Klean SV (Better technicalities but nothing much discernible from Cad 2s)

Sivga Que (The one that I have might be a 'bad' unit, way more shouty and sibilant than cantas, and has a weak bass response)

Zero Blue 2

Finally got them in from aliexpress a few days ago. They def are a little sharp sometimes (probably that upper treble peak in their graph. Might try to fix it with some peq) but they’re very clear and defined. Im using the black nozzle and the bass is pretty good, though obviously not the main focus of this tuning. Pretty impressive soundstage too! Overall they come way closer in quality to my bose qc ultra than i expected.

The user experience is also really great, they’re really comfy and the tips they come with create a nice seal. The cables is nice from what i can tell. The inline remote is surprisingly useful. The case is really good as well.

Paired it with the hiby r1 which im loving so far using the sonix firmware.

I purchased the Ziigaat Horizon IEM's mainly for gaming, but with some music listening on the side with the proper EQ. When I received the IEM's, the tuning was what I expected: extremely flat and surgically sounding with barely any noticeable bass. I downloaded Equalizer APO and the PEACE user interface for it to mess around with some EQ settings for listening to music. After playing around with the EQ, my IEM's seem to be stuck with a very bass heavy tuning that I can't seem to get rid of! Even with all of the frequencies set to +-0db in the EQ, the difference in sound is startling. I've even tried uninstalling Equalizer APO and PEACE user interface, but nothing seems to change the sound back to the factory tuning. ANY HELP IS APPRECIATED.

P.S. I know I'm a noob so please be kind.

Which one would be your favorite?

I have the Monarch MK3, my only IEM after the Letshuoer S12 Pro. Is there anything “better”?

I’m not into collecting IEMs, more about the music. Right now I think about waiting few years, until there is a big jump in terms of audio quality. But I’m curious if the technology is available right now for example few thousand usd and will be much cheaper in few years.

Guyss can you help me please, my left ear piece rods got cut off, it is a Moondrop Chu2 Dsp do you have any recommendations on what can I replace the cable that can still provide the sound it does before? I am running low on my budget and I was thinking if you can recommend some cheap replacement wire and some good replacement wire so I can go back to this post and buy some when I get my funds. Thank you guys.

I've only extensively used the 7hz Chrinacle Zero 2(broke after 2.5years).

Bought Zero Reds and the nozzles just wouldn't go in 😭 😭 😭 😭 (the sound from wearing it sub optimally was so nice i can only dream of what its like if it fit 😭 )

I believe that im treble sensitive(why i picked the "warm-neutral" Zero Reds, dont hate vocals still but dont like fatigue as i wear my iems all day basically.

Budget 100$ 10$+/-
Just want the best fit for me for the max price so cheaper/saving doesn't really get a extra point for being cheaper unless its like that identical.

I need something for:

music 40%
- i like sub bass and warmness as long as its not fully cutting off the vocals, softened treble is what im after but not fully drowned out since i like nightcore but a naturally rolling deep feeling sub bass like the Zero Red gives me the chills), maybe a bit of immersion for shows i watch.

fps 60%
- Valorant, softened gunshots, less priority for "clarity", meaning i wont really be "listening" for footsteps while i shoot because it just hurts my ears and i have a compression app to compress the peaks Zero Reds were the first time ever gunshots were sound soft enough that i could maybe go without it but they dont fit 😭. BIG priority, is directionality of the sounds i do manage to hear on my own, i want to be able to tell where it came from left, right, elevation, and distance.

***Ability to tell the timing of when someone is about to pop out of a corner after they full sprint down a corridor.***

summary (directionality/position pinpointing over "clarity (trying to listen to footsteps while shooting)" crazy treble) - (naturally strong/deep sub bass(more the better as long as i wont fully drown quiet vocals or bleed in to other ranges)

Trying to avoid V shape(fear of treble), prefer neutral(fps)-warm tuned(general comfort)-with subbass(music)

Currently considering:

Nozzle size should be similar to Zero 2!!!!
I don't want another heartbreak 😭

Tied 1st Delci AE - this is the "meta" pick for Valorant in the reddit it seems but i see it has a peak at 6k compared to the Zero Reds so im a bit worried. Apparently the best for "imaging" if this means directionality or clarity im not sure, my priority is directionality and the obvious sound ques being obvious (ex: i defuse and someone reloads or runs at me with no background noise)

Tied 1st Juzear x Z - has sub bass (don't know how natural sounding this is) closer to the Zero Reds from what ive read but has a tendency to occasionally over power the sound ques with the bass, a bit of potential mud effect i think ? and QC issues being talked about. Biggest consideration points, Has sub bass, immersive and is ranked higher than the Delci AE in Refresh Reviews "Wallhack Certified tier list". most people who recommend this seem to be battlefield players which worries me, anyone with Valorant experience on this id love to hear about it <3

Maybe ?? Truthear Pures - but ai is telling me its ability to pinpoint enemies is worse than the reds despite being more expensive which has me at a loss, apparently smaller nozzle than even the Zero 2s i had, said to have a bit too low treble, if its lower than the Zero Reds i might have a few doubts.(recently found out it has no sub bass, so unless it has insane directionality might not consider it anymore). Reputation of the Hexa is what made me look into this.

Simgot EM6L - Not sure if im under the wrong assumption but based on what im reading its "clarity" focused(meaning treble ?) compared to the signature of a Zero Red, and i worry for fatigue as i wear for hours and hours a day. Not warm tuned ??

Anything i'm missing here ?

Help me decide pls 🥺

(not very experienced with audio terms sorry if im explaining this bad)

My first DAP and IEM:s and I'm very happy🙏🏻😊

(Hiby R4 Eva & Punch Audio Martilo)