An audio review & news blog. The volume should not exceed 80 dB is recommended. I usually adhere to the safe-listening style by WHO. Please note that my aural impressions and interpretations of measurements are also made from a safe-listening style.
This review is written based on a "private purchase" or "product rented for a price".
No remuneration or compensation, such as a manuscript fee, has been received for publishing this, and it is an honest evaluation based on measurement data from personal testing and personal opinion.
Build quality meets price standards. Re-cable is not possible.
Fit
The fit is quite good.
Sound quality
REW Frequency Response
Sound quality description
In this review, I use the standard eartips size L and drive it with the FiiO M15.
Moondrop CHU has a neutral sound with an emphasis on the midrange. It is also excellent in the depth of the low range, and it can express a profound feeling relatively well.
Please see here for detailed reviews on sound quality.
Sound quality general comment
Original Sound Fidelity: A+
Recommendation: S
Personal preference: S+
The CHU's sound near the top of the range of Moondrop products I have heard, and especially their sound balance has never sounded better.
How do they compare to the KATO's? The KATO is very superior in audio specs, and even considering their superior nozzle system and build quality, I would have to say that the KATO is the better earphones from a reviewer's perspective.
However, for my personal taste, I would say CHU. I guess it's the difference in low frequency range. I think KATO is more extended in the high frequency range, and it is hard to say whether it is better or worse. I am surprised at Moondrop's uncompromising quality in making CHU, which is supposed to be an entry-level product.
Sound quality features
Pros
Almost perfect texture
Good sound balance
Bright midrange
Lush
High resolution
Excellent low frequency depth
Good clarity
Near perfect monitor speaker sound
Excellent sound image consistency
High transparency
Frontally localized
Excellent coherence and overtone resonance
Cons
Lacks airiness
Slightly noisy upper midrange
Sound a little too clear for relaxed listening
Lacks subtlety
General comment
Moondrop CHU is an entry-level Chinese iems that could be called a "KATO the Younger," created with the knowledge gained from KATO. While the quality is kept in line with the price, the development results obtained from the latest models have been steadily introduced, and some of the improvements have even been made.
A collaboration special edition "Moondrop NEKOCAKE Special Edition" with the popular smartphone game "Ash Arms" has appeared in the completely wireless earphones "Moondrop NEKOCAKE" of the popular brand "Moondrop".
Long battery life(4 hours on a single charge, up to 12 hours with charging case).
Specifications
Bluetooth Version: 5.0.
Protocol Supported: A2DP/AVRCP/HFP/HSP/SBC/AAC.
Impedance: 32Ω±15%@1kHz.
Working distance: up to 10meters.
Charging time: up to 1 hour.
Charging time(Case): up to 1.5 hours.
Battery capacity(earpieces): 37mAh.
Battery capacity(charging case): 380mAh.
Battery Life: up to 4 hours on a single charge, up to 12 hours with charging case.
Weaving the best collaboration for audiophiles and game fans
The EMBERS in "Embers Studio" of military online game "ASH ARMS " team joint with MOONDROP. With the "NEKOCAKE" as the prototype, which is suitable for the shallow-in-ear wearing of most ear canals and can be comfortably worn even in the small ear canal, we launch the first customized joint TWS.
The original popular role 88mm Flak36 as the theme, the EMBERS provided color matching, elements and packaging design, and uniting the virtual anchor MITSUKIYUKI, a customized exclusive voice prompt was launched. Everything aims to bring unprecedented listening experiences to the agents of " ASH ARMS" and the MOONDROP' s fans.
Dynamic Performance With Large Dynamic Driver
Moondrop has featured a large 13mm dynamic driver per side on the Nekocake. This driver is capable of producing high-quality sound performance providing a deep-diving bass response, rich midrange, and a smooth treble region with excellent detail reproduction. Thanks to this powerful dynamic driver, the Nekocake achieves nonlinear distortion with full-frequency THD+N lower than 0.5%. This driver has a titanium dome with a composite diaphragm and imported CCAW voice coil for best performance.
Moondrop’s Trusted VDSF Target Response
Similar to most of the earphones by Moondrop, the latest Nekocake also has a frequency response that is similar to their famous VDSF target response to bring a natural and pure sound response with a wide soundstage presentation. The pair also has different tuning options adjustable with just a single click. Moondrop has pre-loaded five different tuning profiles for the Nekocake. These are easily accessible via the Moondrop Link application. Different from the common EQ switching, these five kinds of tuning are professionally compensated and adjusted by their R&D senior team, Balanced tuning provides a more durable and balanced timbre, which is suitable for most types of music.
VIRTUAL ANCHOR MITSUKIYUKI'S WARM VOICE PROMPT
The Virtual Anchor MITSUKIYUKI Recording the exclusive voice for the 88mm Flak36 of " ASH ARMS", reliving the real gaming scene and feeling the warm music atmosphere.
Active-Noise Cancellation(ANC) Technology
Nekocake features ANC active noise-cancellation technology. It effectively reduces the ambient background noises. The pair has two noise cancellation presets, On and Off. Users can toggle the ANC by a long press on the earpiece. Nekocake also has Intelligent Voice Call Noise Cancellation technology that provides crisp voice transmission over phone calls.
Simple Touch Operation
Moondrop Nekocake has an easy touch operation for accessing various functions on the pair. These can be used to turn the ANC on/off, call pickup/disconnection, play/pause media, select previous/next track, or use the voice assistant. The touch operation is completely customizable via the Moondrop Link application.
Price & Availability
The Moondrop NEKOCAKE Special Edition is now available for pre-order at HiFiGO and other retailers for $49.99 and will ship at the end of April.
Over the years, Moondrop has earned a lot of respect in the audiophile community mainly for its premium set of in-ear monitors. They have multiple successful IEMs available across different price segments starting from as low as 13$ with its entry-level model and going as high as 1100$ with its flagship pair. For the past few days, Moondrop has been teasing its latest upcoming set through its social media platform, today the pair is finally launched worldwide. Presenting you the all-new Moondrop Chu.
The latest Moondrop Chu is an entry-level single-dynamic driver IEM that comes at a very attractive price with mic and no mic options. It is being launched as a worthy successor to the Moondrop Spaceship. Although the design concept, styling, and acoustic architecture have everything been upgraded on the Moondrop Chu here now. Moondrop Chu is being launched at just 19.99$, check out more details here.
Effective Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz(IEC60318-4, -3dB).
Absolutely Brilliant Performance At Budget Price
Moondrop Chu is the latest entry-level killer IEM from the brand priced quite attractively at just 19.99$. The pair produces an absolutely brilliant performance with good clarity and a wide frequency response producing an authentic Hi-Res experience for the users. Who says Hi-Res experience is always costly??? Moondrop Chu delivers quality at a pocket-friendly price.
10mm Composite Diaphragm Dynamic Driver Unit
Moondrop CHU features a 10mm high-performance dynamic driver unit per side with a composite cavity structure. The driver adopts a high-power N52 Neodymium magnetic circuit and an ultra-thin imported CCAW voice coil to obtain highly efficient performance with excellent clarity and detail.
Follow’s Moondrop’s VDSF Tuning Curve
CHU follows the Moondrop VDSF target response with a carefully controlled acoustic coupling cavity. The VDSF target response is a parametric target where sound quality is controlled by composite elements. It ensures we get a high-resolution sound output with an open soundstage and crisp clarity throughout the frequency range.
New Ergonomic Design For A Comfortable Fit
Moondrop Chu adopts a finely crafted metal housing that is manufactured from alloys using melting and injection molding technologies. The end result is a beautiful shell with a stable and robust build that also has an ergonomic shape for a comfortable wearing experience.
Comes Standard With Moondrop Spring Tips
Moondrop’s latest Spring Tips are highly comfortable silicone ear tips. They surpass undesirable resonance through a special diffusion structure, greatly enhancing the sound performance. Moondrop includes the premium Spring Tips as stock with the Moondrop CHU.
Moondrop CHU is launched officially in two different variants, one with a mic and one without. It starts at 19.99$ for the without mic variant. With mic variant is priced at 21.99$. Check out more details here.
This review is written based on a "private purchase" or "product rented for a price".
No remuneration or compensation, such as a manuscript fee, has been received for publishing this, and it is an honest evaluation based on measurement data from personal testing and personal opinion.
The exterior build quality meets the price range standard.
Fit
The fit is quite good.
Sound quality
REW Frequency Response
Sound quality description
In this review, I use the standard eartips size L and drive it with the FiiO M15.
Moondrop Aria is a neutral-conscious, studio-tuned earphone. However, while the clarity and micro-detail are not bad for use as monitors, they lack a sense of structure, so the sound tends to sound soft and is more suited for listening purposes.
For monitoring purposes, the higher-end Starfield, which sounds brighter in the midrange, is probably better for most people, and the Tripowin Olina and Tin HiFi T3 Plus in the same price range win for midrange expression.
It is almost a perfect competitor with the T3 Plus, especially in price, audio specs, and sound balance, almost like a sibling, but I still rate the T3 Plus higher because it is closer to the royal road of studio tuning.
In my opinion, the order is Olina > T3 Plus > Starfield > Aria, and in fact, Olina is the most frequently used, but all of them are very good in terms of resolution and distortion rate, transcending their price, and all of them have a neutral sound balance. To be frank, I don't think it makes much difference which one you choose.
Please see here for detailed reviews on sound quality.
Sound quality general comment
Original Sound Fidelity: A+
Recommendation: A+
Personal preference: A+
Aria is one of the best earphones in its price range, with an almost perfect texture and a stretched sound that outperforms its competitors. Currently, it is one of the models that epitomizes the near perfection of earphones at around $100, and it would be difficult to find a better sound for more money.
Sound quality features
Pros
Lush
High resolution
Nearly perfect texture
High fidelity of original sound
Almost perfect monitor speaker sound
Excellent sound image consistency
High transparency of sound
Forward localized
Refreshing sound
Cons
A little short on clarity.
Lacks depth
Lacking in sense of construction
General comment
The Moondrop Aria is a very good neutral listening model and an excellent IEMs that can be recommended without question if you prefer a spacious and refreshing sound.
Moondrop is known as a very popular Chinese IEM brand. However, their lineup is not limited to in-ear monitors. Moondrop has now released overseas the Moondrop MoonRiver 2, a portable headphone amplifier with an innovative design and built-in dongle-type DAC.
Features
Flagship-grade Dual DAC Chipset(2xCS43198).
Four-channel fully balanced architecture.
Powerful headphone output.
Dual Headphone ports(3.5mm SE+4.4mm Bal).
Ultimate Hi-Res Decoding support.
Replaceable Type-C Cable Interface.
CNC machined Aluminum alloy chassis.
Included silver-plated Type-C to Type-C cable included in the package.
Technical Specifications
DAC: Dual CS43198.
Headphone Ports: 3.5mm Single-ended and 4.4mm Balanced.
In high-resolution lossless audio formats, MoonRiver 2 is highly compatible and will have no problem playing back audio files.
It can handle CD lossless 16Bit/44.1kHz encoding, 24Bit/192kHz encoding at the high quality mastering level, and 32Bit/384kHz encoding where few files are found.
Premium high-end decoding chip
The Moondrop MoonRiver 2 is equipped with two CS43198 DAC chips, the flagship and rarest of rare DAC chips from Cirrus Logic, a world-class audio integrated circuit manufacturer. The digital-to-analog conversion performance promises to exceed many people's expectations, delivering ultra-low distortion and high signal-to-noise ratio for unprecedented performance in the portable audio experience.
Premium build with high-precision CNC machining process
Moondrop MoonRiver 2 is molded with a high-precision CNC machining process using a lightweight aluminum alloy. Its unique and beautiful appearance is texturally pleasing, sturdy, lightweight, and comfortable to carry.
More than enough powerful drive power
The four-channel circuitry is achieved by incorporating two high-performance dual operational amplifier chips, providing up to 4Vrms of balanced output. the MOONRIVER2 not only makes it easy to power high-quality in-ear monitors, but also provides a studio-class impedance up to 300 ohms The 4.4 balanced outputs have a high-gain mode to powerfully drive even the biggest-eating headphones.
Ultimate performance in a portable device!
131dB dynamic range
Ultra-low THD of 0.0001x%.
S/N ratio of over 116dB
These specs alone show that the MoonRiver 2 delivers the highest specifications available in a portable device, and is as good as any desktop-class product.
Highly rated by reviews
L7Audiolab's review of the MoonRiver 2 is available, and while there are minor differences from Moondrop's official measurements, Moondrop's claimed specification level is confirmed in the verification measurements. However, single-ended performance is confirmed to be lower as per the official specs, so it is recommended to use the device as a balanced connection device if possible.
Pricing & Availability
The Moondrop MoonRiver 2's global version can be ordered for $189.99 from HiFiGO and other.
Moondrop Aria has been a fan favorite for many audio lovers all around the globe. People loved it for its spectacular performance at a very attractive price point. Moondrop has recently launched a new Limited edition for the Aria, a chance to experience Aria in an all-new Avatar, meet the all-new Moondrop Aria Elven Maiden. This comes with the same single dynamic LCP diaphragm driver configuration as the original Aria, priced the same too at 79.99$.
This latest Moondrop Aria Special Elven Maiden edition features exceptionally beautiful, new looks with a combination of Matte Black and Turqoise colors. Moondrop has created its most famous, Aria in a unique and beautiful new avatar depicting Wings and Harp as the main element on the faceplates. It is made in limited quantities, so grab a unit while you can from HiFiGO store here.
Features
Lovely new design
Powerful performance with a 10mm dual-cavity dynamic driver
High-resolution clarity with LCP(Liquid Crystal Polymer) Diaphragm
Strong magnetic flux with N52 neodymium magnet
Brass inner driver cavity
CCAW voice coil
Ergonomic and lightweight ear cavities
Technical Specifications
Impedance: 32 ohms
Sensitivity: 122dB/Vrms
Frequency response: 5Hz-36kHz
Effective frequency range: 20Hz-20kHz
Your Favorite Aria In An All-New Design
Aria has been a fan favorite of many audio lovers. It has received nothing else but love and affection from all its users all over the world. Moondrop has given an entirely new look to the beloved Aria. The design concept is inspired by the Wings and Harp, instead of the regular Matte black finish of the OG Aria, you get a brand new Turquoise designer Aria with the Aria Elven Maiden Edition.
Feel The Sound Of Nature With The Aria Elven Maiden
For the new Aria Elven Maiden edition, Moondrop has kept the driver configuration and tuning the same as the OG Aria. It still houses a 10mm dual-cavity magnetic dynamic driver with LCP(Liquid Crystal Polymer) diaphragm that promises you excellent transients and high-resolution clarity throughout a wide frequency spectrum. We guess hundreds of positive feedback on the OG Aria says a lot about its excellent sound performance.
HRTF Frequency Curve
Moondrop has tuned the Aria Elven Maiden compliant with the HRTF(Head-Related Transfer Function) and Room Response Function frequency curve. It is optimized and adjusted for modern recordings, presenting the users with a smooth sound with a wide sound stage.
Swappable Silver-Plated Cable
Aria comes with a high-quality silver-plated cable that has a nylon-braided outer surface. The cable has 0.78mm 2-pin connectors for easy and firm connectivity with the earpieces. Users can easily replace the cable as per their preference, although it synergizes well with the pair and delivers quality performance.
Moondrop is a veteran HiFi audio in-ear monitor brand based in China, specializing in the research, development and distribution of high quality IEMs, with a wide range of products in different price ranges. Specializing in the research, development and distribution of high quality IEMs, with a wide range of products in different price ranges, Moondrop has dominated the single entry to mid-level single dynamic IEM market with its highly acclaimed Kanas Pro and KXXS earphones.
Today, Moondrop announced the latest upgrade to its KXXS lineup, the Moondrop Kato. The Moondrop Kato is the result of two years of design, testing and refinement to develop a new ULT (Ultra- Linear Technology) dynamic driver unit that delivers powerful and engaging sound with a natural tone and low distortion. Moondrop Kato uses the third generation of DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) composite diaphragm for the ULT dynamic driver to provide a new experience of high-resolution sound. In addition, a new MIM stainless steel diaphragm has been developed. The Moondrop Kato features interchangeable sound nozzles and comes with two types of ear nozzles.
Kato is currently available for pre-order for $189. As a pre-order bonus, it comes with the latest Line "K" upgrade cable. For more details, please visit here.
Features of Moondrop Kato
Featuring the newly developed ULT Super Linear Dynamic Driver
Thick silver-plated cable made of high quality copper
Gold-plated 0.78mm 2-pin connector
Technical specifications of Moondrop Kato
10 mm ULT dynamic driver
Frequency response range: 10Hz to 45kHz (IEC, Free Field)
Effective frequency range: 20Hz to 20kHz (IEC60318-4, -3dB)
Impedance: 32Ω±15% (@1kHz)
Sensitivity: 123dB/Nrms.
Distortion: 0.<0.15% or less (1kHz, AES17 20kHz, A-weighted).
Newly developed ULT super linear dynamic driver
The Moondrop Kato uses a newly developed 10 mm Ultra Linear Technology Super Linear Dynamic Driver Unit. In addition to an efficient composite magnetic circuit that combines internal and external magnets and a linear air circulation structure, it also features a large brass acoustic cavity, an ultra-fine imported CCAW sound coil, and a high-frequency phase waveguide. This driver has undergone more than two years of development to achieve genuine sound performance.
Third-generation DLC composite diaphragm
Kato's 10 mm ULT dynamic driver uses a third-generation DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) composite diaphragm coil. This composite diaphragm uses three materials with different characteristics to form each part of the diaphragm. The result is high rigidity, high damping ratio, and ultra-light weight. Its overall acoustic performance exceeds even that of a beryllium diaphragm.
Modern, stunning, three-dimensional appearance
Moondrop has designed the Kato with a modern design using MIM stainless steel material. The earphone shells are cast using the MIM powder metallurgy method. Every part of the surface is hand polished to a smooth finish. The surface of Kato reflects light and shadow to create a three-dimensional appearance.
Delicate cavity structure for well-balanced tuning
KATO's front acoustic cavity is designed based on the volume and structure simulated by FEA (Finite Element Analysis Simulation). This allows us to maintain a balanced tuning profile and achieve a sound that complements a variety of genres. In addition, KATO's front cavity, coupled with the high frequency phase guide components in the driver, outperforms other so-called special tuning components. This pair has been tuned by professional acoustic engineers in line with the VDSF target response.
Interchangeable ear nozzles
The Moondrop Kato is designed with a replaceable sound nozzle. Moondrop offers two types of sound nozzles (steel and brass) made of different materials. The steel and brass nozzles have different sound characteristics and can be replaced according to your preference.
Third generation patented acoustic filter
The Moondrop Kato features an all-new 3rd generation patented anti-blocking filter built into the ear nozzle. It prevents oily earwax from blocking the filter, resulting in a richer sound in the mid and high frequencies.
Newly developed spring silicone ear tips
Moondrop has designed a new spring silicone eartip that suppresses weak resonance through a special diffusion structure. It also reduces high-frequency linear distortion caused by nozzle resonance, resulting in a more natural and comfortable output. This eartip also allows users to get a better fit.
High-Purity Bundled Cable
Moondrop uses a 4-core high purity copper thick silver plated cable for the new KATO. This cable is coated with a high permeability mixed material that provides ultra low dielectric constant. This cable offers low internal resistance and smooth signal transmission, providing the user with pure sound. The connector uses a standard 0.78mm 2-pin connector.
Price and Availability
Moondrop Kato is available for pre-order now for $189. The pre-order period starts today and ends on September 16. As a bonus for pre-ordering, we are offering a free high-quality upgrade cable from Moondrop (the latest Line "K", 3.5mm SE and 2.5mm/4.4mm Bal termination options) We look forward to your pre-order of the Moondrop Kato.
As with other products, HiFiGO offers free express shipping worldwide for orders over $500. We also offer free priority shipping to certain areas for orders over $100. For more information about HiFiGO's shipping policy, please click here.
Moondrop has officially released its highly-anticipated tribrid set of IEMs, the Moondrop Variations. It has been one of the most anticipated projects from Moondrop in recent times. With Variations, Moondrop is bringing us three different technologies put together inside 3D printed ear cavities. The pair utilizes the power of a powerful Dynamic driver, two High-Performance Balanced Armature drivers, and two Highly-Resolving Electrostatic drivers to push the limits of high-resolution audio and produce an all-new experience for its users. Moondrop Variations has a price tag of 520$, It is available with us on our HiFiGo store. Check out more details here.
Features
High-quality acoustic performance with Perfect Tribrid Configuration.
Moondrop has carefully chosen the driver configuration for the Variations. They have experience in implementing EST drivers before like in their flagship Solis IEMs. Moondrop has equipped the Variations with a five-driver configuration in a three-way crossover. A 10mm large LCP diaphragm dynamic driver is tuned to provide a powerful lower-end response, two Softears customized balanced armature drivers are tuned for a rich mid-range response, and two Sonion EST drivers are there for super-detailed treble frequency response.
Highly-Consistent Full-Frequency Response
Moondrop has improved over the hybrid crossover design of Blessings 2. This has been done to achieve a highly consistent full-frequency response. They have designed a 3D printed precision acoustic channel combined with damping materials. Variations show very ideal frequency response with phase indicators.
Ergonomic Fit With Skin-Friendly Resin Material
Moondrop uses high-precision 3D-printing technology to design ergonomically shaped ear cavities providing a comfortable fit for most users. The cavity here in Variations is made using high-quality medical-grade resin material with the same high-precision 3D printing process. The cavities have sand-blasted and hand-polished stainless steel face panels that give an excellent texture and look to the pair.
Moondrop's VDSF Target Response Tuning
Moondrop Variations is tuned based on Moondrop's famous VDSF target response to bring a true and accurate sound response with a wide sound stage presentation. With its powerful tribrid driver configuration, the pair achieves a total harmonic distortion of less than 1% delivering a melodious and clean sound response that will complement different genres well.
High-Purity Single Crystal Copper Cable With Detachable Termination Plug
Moondrop Variations comes bundled with a high-purity PCC Coaxial Monocrystalline copper cable that adopts a coaxial structure with replaceable termination plugs. The package includes 3.5mm single-ended, 2.5mm balanced, and 4.4mm balanced termination plugs. The high-purity single-crystal copper material ensures a pure sound signal transmission with low internal resistance.
Easy To Power
With a low impedance rating of just 15.2 ohms and high sensitivity of 118dB/Vrms, the Moondrop Variations is a highly sensitive pair. It can be powered right off a regular smartphone without the need for any external amplifier or extra devices.
Pricing & Availability
Moondrop Variations is officially released today with an attractive price tag of 520$. It can be bought from our store from here.
Shanling X Moondrop X Tanchjim Limited Edition M3X
Shanling has partnered with Moondrop & Tanchjim audio to develop a limited edition of its latest M3X Android Music Player. The three brands have jointly designed this limited edition M3X matching with their earphones both in terms of design and acoustic tuning. Yes, this limited edition M3X sounds different from that of the standard model with a darker background, warmer and better-controlled output. It features a new look with a clean silver design and anime girls on the rear glass.
The limited-edition M3X comes bundled with a unique white leather case that complements the new look of the player. The specs are kept the same as the original player but the look, feel, and tuning is entirely new to the limited edition M3X. This limited edition M3X is made in very limited quantity, only 500 units will be made available internationally with each unit number marked on the side of the device.
You can order and book your today from HiFiGO for 430$, shipments will begin shortly.
What’s New With Limited Edition Shanling x Moondrop x Tanchjim M3X
A new beautiful silver finish with anime girl design on the rear glass.
Custom white leather case with a new and unique design.
Newly-designed packaging with designer art pieces.
Adjusted tuning for better matching with Moondrop & Tanchjim earphones.
Limited to only 500 units for the international market.
Limited Edition M3X is priced at 430$, Shipments will begin middle of June.
Features & Technical Specifications of Shanling M3X
High-performance Dual ES9219C DAC chipset.
Full 16X MQA unfolding.
AVX Tantalum Capacitors.
4.4mm Balanced output.
3.5mm Single-Ended output.
Supports Hi-res audio decoding(PCM support up to 32-Bit/384kHz, DSD up to DSD256 natively).
Snappy Qualcomm Snapdragon 430 CPU.
2GB RAM.
32 GB ROM.
MicroSD card slot.
Hi-Res Bluetooth Support(LDAC, LHDC, AptX HD, AptX, SBC).
USB DAC functionality.
Dual-band Wifi connectivity(2.4G/5G).
Output Power(Bal): Up to 240mW @ 32ohms.
Output Impedance: <1 ohm.
Open Android OS.
Battery Capacity: 3200mAh.
Battery life: Up to 23 hours(SE, Single DAC)/ 20 hours(SE, dual DAC)/ 19 hours(Bal).
Dimensions: 109mm x 72mm x 15.9mm.
Weight: 168 grams.
The Shanling x Moondrop x Tanchjim M3X is made in very limited quantities. There are only 500 units made available internationally. Book your today with HiFiGo here.
Shanling X Moondrop X Tanchjim Limited Edition M3X
Although it is a slightly larger housing design, it fits well in your ears. It is lightweight with a sturdy metal housing and has good sound insulation.
Testing environment
This first impression test is performed using FiiO M15.
24AWG Litz 4 Core Braided wire with glittering shine terminates at 3.5mm plug
Six pairs of silicone tips(different sizes)
Carry Pouch
Sound quality: Providing a sense of stability in a warm low-frequency presentation, it achieves a sound with good visibility while giving a moderately rich feeling.
Image of frequency characteristics (Test operation)
※The "Image of frequency characteristics" is a reference information for the purpose of reviewing the image of the frequency distribution personally for the sake of review. The measurement method and the measured data are very rough and lack strict reliability and accuracy.
First impression
This time we check the first impression using the large size silicon eartip included in the package.
Sound enough with a smartphone
The impedance is 32Ω and it is a little high to sound with a smartphone, but it can sound enough because of high sensitivity. I tested it on my Galaxy A30 and found nothing unsatisfactory.
Warm and calm floor surface, high-frequency expression emphasizing details, excellent sound field and three-dimensional feeling（savage genius - "Hikari no Yukue"）
光の行方
Starfield's warm lows provide stability in the mids, and the distribution of brightness in the highs is well thought out. As a result, the vocals are heard in the spotlight, with a natural sense of reality.
I tried the song "Hikari no Yukue" by savage genius, which is composed of acoustic sounds and rock elements.
At first glance, the resolution doesn't look good in the price range, it seems normal. Strings seem a bit gaudy, but hi-hats aren't very flashy, and there isn't much emphasis on contours in instrumental sounds, so there's no strong sense of resolution. Although the depth seems to be conscientious and the width of the sound stage is wide, the touch also feels a little soft in the low range, which doesn't feel like pushing the sound. The electric guitar sound is mild and gentle, and in some cases it feels a little fuzzy.
Compared to NF Audio NA1, which is sold at almost the same price as Starfield in Japan, NA1 will give you a clearer image of the sound. The output of NA1 has a clear sound outline overall, has many clues, and the sound field may be slightly narrower than Starfield, but it listens well from top to bottom with a versatile monitor atmosphere.
The sound of Starfiled is wider in the mid range, and the sound of NA1 is different from the clear sound. Instrument sounds are widely arranged in the space, and the area around the vocals is very well organized. String and vocal stretches and hi-hat particles are emphasized, giving a good three-dimensional feel to the song. The hi-hat is not very bright, so the sound is clean, but the diffusion of particles is quite fine and clear.
The highs extend quite high, but don't feel sharp. The lows provide enough warmth and body, the sound is substantive and doesn't get spiny. Vocals are also consonantly unobtrusive and breathing is natural. If you like natural vocals, you will love this pair.
Listening to this song, Stargield seems to be a bit more acoustic. At least electric guitars and drums are not aggressive.
Elegant and panoramic sound（Choucho - "Elemental World"）
Elemental World
The sound field is wide, with depth and width in the mid range, and on this song this earphone has good focus on vocals. Although this song originally has quite a lot of clues in the mid-high range, this earphone controls the luster moderately and lets you hear the sound image in a natural atmosphere. Sound clarity is not particularly excellent, but the sound is well localized, the sound field is wide and well separated. There is a better view with a fine lookout than an only good view.
The vocals are also natural, and they are not sticky while giving a moderate amount of gloss. There is a very clean atmosphere where the sound soars and refreshes. I personally like Choucho's vocals to be clean and relaxed, so I think this feel is good. The piano sound also gives a clear gloss, but despite the sound with a slight buoyancy, it is naturally connected to the low range, and you can feel the sinking.
Strings and other instrumental sounds rise and grow well, but overtones are not overemphasized, so they maintain a natural texture and sound elegant without being too thin.
Tight and transparent sound（Tekopikari - "Futari Shoujo"）
ふたり少女
This earphone has good detail in the high frequency range, has a natural luster, and has no tawdriness. There is enough warmth in the low range, and the sound of the contrabass has a sense of dynamism, but the sound is extended to the high range, and there is no feeling of stagnation in the midrange. The sound is well blown by the open sound field, the left and right are wide, and the view of the sound field seems good.
The vocals have a natural atmosphere and are not too sweet, so the micro details of the voice such as breathing are clear. It expresses the vocal expression of this song with a refreshing and transparent feeling quite nicely.
But noteworthy point are acoustic guitars, strings and pianos. Each sound has a real feeling, does not give too much richness, does not give too much gloss, and has a natural transparency. On the other hand, the elasticity of the sound is clearly felt, so that the sound particles can be heard finely, even though the color is transparent.
Bright and fast（Team"Hanayamata" - "Hana ha Odore-ya Irohaniho"）
花ハ踊レヤいろはにほ
In the case of this song, the vocal consonants are emphasized a little, but there is no sharpness because the air is good. In general, the bright vocal expression of this earphone seems to have a high level of delicacy at this price, but since it seems to have already mentioned enough, I will omit it here.
The point to note in this song is the rhythm. The drum kick has a solid attack, so there is no delay and the speed is agile. The lows are warm but have good visibility, and bass drum kicks and electric bass sounds are clearly heard. The kick and bass are sounds that are easy to collide with, but Starfield draws well and there is no turbidity in the rhythm.
Summary
The distinctive feature is that it has a high sense of detail while maintaining the breadth and openness of the sound field expression, and the transparency at high frequencies. If you are looking for an earphone with a wide sound field and excellent sound image localization, it will provide satisfactory quality in this price range. It is not a sound that emphasizes outlines and richness, but a clear sound with a natural atmosphere and transparency, so it is suitable for everyone. Vocal focus is good. In the mids, electric guitars are a bit regressive, so rock may be. Electric guitars are a bit regressive in the midrange, so you may like or dislike it when listening to rock.
If you want to know more about NA1, you may find what you are looking for in my Japanese review.
