ThieAudio's library is large and still growing. They've released some great IEMs like the Monarch, and Oracle, Divinity, and some good open-back headphones with the Wraith and Ghost. With each new release, ThieAudio has maintained a standard level of quality no matter the price, and the Hype 2 looks to maintain that standard. These IEMs cost $299, so they're in that window between budget and mid-budget. Let's see what the ThieAudio Hype 2 is all...

Moondrop has given us a ton of great IEMs over the years. They have one of the strongest linups for affordable IEMs on the market. That lineup includes the original Starfield, and now there's a new version of it that has just released, fittingly called the Starfield 2. Does it hold up to the original? What You Get Moondrop Starfield 2 IEMs Silver-coated 2-pin cable with 3.5mm plug Nozzle filters 3 sets of silicone ear...

Shanling is one of those audiophile brands that deliver killer products on the cheap. In fact, whether it’s DAPs or IEMs, the company tends to overachieve. So, I was particularly interested to try one of its newer and more budget friendly IEM models, the Shanling Sono. Selling for a modest 80 bucks, can the Sono deliver an audiophile-grade sound? What’s in the Box? Shanling Sonos IEM Silver Plated Copper Cable 2-pin 3 Sizes Silicone Ear...

I've tried a lot of different products from Fiio over the years. Their IEMs, DAPs, and amplifiers have been big successes, and now they are finally adding a new set of headphones to their catalog. The FT3 are open-back reference headphones for $299. It is intended as a reference headphone for mixers, as well as those looking for a clean and unaltered sound signature. Let's see if Fiio can deliver. What You Get FiiO FT3...

Sivga is known for its reasonably priced open-back headphones, like the Pheonix and SV0023. They've released wired earbuds in the past, but the new SM002 looks to be an attempt at being IEMs. Following other chiFi trends, the SM002 looks to give you an audiophile sound for an economical price, which fits Sivga's already established selection. Can the SM002 reach those heights for only $180? What You Get SM002 IEMs 2 cables (one with mic)...

The Ananda Nano builds upon the success of Hifiman's original Ananda model, which has gained huge popularity for its evenly balanced, natural sound signature and incredibly good value for money. But with the release of the Ananda Nano, you can expect some significant changes with respect to tuning and performance. Will the new Ananda Nano continue to be the best mid-level planar headphone on the market? What’s in the Box? Ananda Nano Headphones Hard-shell carrying...

It's always exciting to get something new from Kinera. Their IEMs have a consistent quality to them, both in sound and structure. The new Loki is their biggest release yet, aiming for the ultra-high-end crowd thanks to its $3,099 price point. It's a big ask, especially with a lot of their output being on the more budget side of things. However, I'm excited to hear what Kinera can do at their fullest potential. Let's see...

Sivga has become increasingly popular for producing high quality sound at budget-friendly prices. The Luan, priced at 300 bucks, is the latest open-back Sivga headphone to hit the market. Will it again surpass expectations? And what can you expect in terms of sound signature? What’s in the Box? Luan headphones Leather carrying case Detachable 3.5mm cable 1/4 inch adapter Look and Feel To be honest, distinguishing between various Sivga models can be challenging due to...

If you’re a fan of 64 Audio, it’s likely that you’ve discovered FiR, a relatively new and quickly emerging IEM brand, started with the help of 64 Audio’s ex-CEO, Bogdan Belonozhko. FiR’s latest flagship, the pricey Xenon 6 takes some cues from 64 Audio’s design, but sounds nothing like a traditional 64 Audio IEM. So, what can you expect from the Xenon 6 in terms of performance and personality? What's in the Box? Braided Black...

Since its release, the Moondrop Blessing 2 has been a great option for mid-budget IEMs. It has been quite the favorite amongst some audiophiles, with updates like the Dusk version keeping things fresh. Now we finally have the next generation of the Blessing line with the Blessing 3. Does it live up to the status of the former iteration? What You Get earphone * 1 3.5mm silver-plated earphone cable * 1 Storage bag * 1...

The few Letshuoer models I’ve tried all share the common elements of a warm, natural and well-balanced sound signature. And the company can deliver some great sound for cheap. Selling at $120, the D13 is one of the most affordable options in Letshuoer’s line-up. What sound profile can you expect from the D13, and how well does it perform? What’s in the Box? Letshuoer D13 IEMs Various Sizes Silicone Ear Tips Treble Tuning Nozzles Leather...

Last year, Kennerton released the GH 40 and Rognir closed-back headphones. Now they are returning to high-end open-backs with the Heartland. This is a new planar headphone that will set you back $3469, entering the endgame territory of the hobby. Can it reach the heights of last year's releases? What You Get Kennerton Heartland Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones 2-meter Cable with 6.35mm Unbalanced Jack Carrying Pouch Soft Leather Carrying Case Certificate of Authentication Frequency Response...

Campfire Audio Solaris Stellar Horizon Review Campfire Audio was launched into fame in 2018 when they released the Andromeda, an IEM that has basically earned itself the status of being a modern classic. The Solaris was released the year, and was met with a similarly positive reception. Now in 2023, Campfire Audio has released new versions of both the Andromeda and the Solaris, sporting new looks and technical upgrades. The new Solaris, or the Solaris...

I've been a fan of Kinera's IEMs for a few years now. They've brought a consistent output of products no matter what their price tag is. Their latest effort is the Hodur, a new electrostatic IEM that costs $299. Is it another great product from the Kinera brand or does it fail to live up to their standards? What You Get One pair of Kinera Hodur In-ear monitors. One Modular 4 Cores OCC with Silver...

I recently tested out Bowers & Wilikins’ new Pi7 S2, and had mixed feelings about the overall sound signature and performance given the significant price. So, I was curious about how the more affordable Pi5 S2 compared in terms of balance and skill. Can the Pi5 S2 compete with the Pi7 S2 and end up being a better bang for your buck?  In the Box Bowers & Wilkins Pi5 S2 Earphones Charging Case USB-C Charging...