10 MOST VERSATILE IEMS (2024)

[@m.sparkle4014]

Buying the one good iem sounds like a good idea until you start thinking ‘I shouldn’t be using my expensive iems outside all the time’ and then all of a sudden you’re 20 iems in and you have a watch case for all your iems

[@theyoutuberhere]

I need to retire from this hobby 😢

[@nathz2020]

Just get 3 iem and learn how to love two iems stick to it. For me hidizs mp145, senneheiser ie200, and tangzu wan'er.

[@tom_from_myspace]

Yeah you don’t need a lot. Buy few and never come back. They constantly release new stuff that is “the best sounding”…. Just buy one you love and don’t follow the cult

[@Bapakgw]

just get U12t and youre done brother

[@hartyewh1]

You sound like a Subtonic Storm away from internal calm and happiness😅

[@theunknown21329]

Step 1: unfollow the iem channels to save yourself from fomo Step 2: enjoy what you own Step 3: profit

[@Warmiice]

It is worth mentioning the fragile chassis of the tangzu waner, which can crumble into dust in the first months of use. My waner lasted 7 months after which the 2 pin connector broke on both headphones. For a friend, this place actually broke down after two of weeks.

[@wanaboed]

Bad QC, *I guess

[@midknight198]

I had mine for almost 2 years and still pretty good. But ive been noticing that the volume sometimes lowers and needs a higher volume to hear the sounds more.

[@krayozmines]

My one and done iem used to be the Moondrop Variations. It's at the sweet spot where upgrading to anything better would only increase like 10% or less in quality and cost thousands but at the same time almost anything below or equivalent in price is the same quality or worse. It was my end game... until i heard the Elysian Pilgrim. omG i can't believe the price. It's a Variations killer to me despite not being the exact same tuning. I'm so tempted to pull the trigger right now on it but imma cope with a Variations to Pilgrim EQ. For context, I've heard Elysian Diva 2023 and Annihilator 2023 but not the Gaea. While the more expensive Elysians I've heard are impressive, I've only felt the strong urge to impulse buy when I heard the Diva and Pilgrim. This hobby is so dangerous man

[@zora2532]

I don’t see a Tanchijim Orgin in this list

[@kenjikodai]

I own both and I love em. I enjoy the ESTs though since they add a depth and space that non ESTs can't capture. Pilgrim is great

[@krayozmines]

​@@zora2532I haven't tried it yet

[@duchieu235]

pilgrim's tuning isnt even that good. just eq the var to df tilt with 5db bass boost

[@Inserthouse]

EST IEM’s are goated fam

[@ursdubel3585]

I bought the Studio 4 because you sugensted it. I could not wrap my head arround how good this 4BA sounds. This IEM is a perfect example what serious tunning can do, pefect Bass, Incredible vocals and not fatiguing highs, simply beautiful. I am done with IEM's for a while i guess.. so.. + 1 Softears fan.. Thank you Timmy 👍👍👍

[@someoneusa]

This hobby is like Hotel California. You can check out but you can never leave. One and done? End game? Perfect? NEVER😈

[@mrnobody1st]

When supermix 4 and em10 review? I'd like to hear your opinion

[@vianhoho19]

You can go to Jay's Audio for that 🤭

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

phonix multiverse? tbh cheaper options are better buys, but they do sound better, than their cheaper i did have quite long listen w phonix, its a great iem

[@JFKaufmann]

Hi Timmy, now that you have launched the DaVinci, your new collaboration with Dunu, it would be great to hear you talk a little about the tuning process and what you set to achieve and which music genres it is most appropriate for.

[@ANOLE_VX]

3:55 Binary Chopin hehe

[@aaronsmith1280]

Why was they not on this list I thought they were the best at price point I picked them over awful 5 due to reviews

[@ANOLE_VX]

@@aaronsmith1280 The Binary Chopin ? Probably because it was his collaboration IEM with Binary, he just avoids the "reviewer bias"

[@vianhoho19]

@@aaronsmith1280 obvious conflict of interest as he was involved in its creation. Same reason the DaVinci is nowhere to be found in this list that being said, the more I think about it, I would still lean towards the P5 for versatility over the Chopin by a very narrow margin. Both sound more similar than different but Chopin is leaner due to the mid-bass scoop as well as its more pronounced upper midrange. It does look very minor if you look at the graphs but it's definitely noticeable when you A/B them

[@ericjackman1143]

Me: Owns DUSK Also me when Truthear Gate is released: 👁👄👁

[@roadtonever]

Gate gang!

[@jamesbroqueza7733]

I have been using my DUNU Titan S for quite a while and it offers a lot for its price.

[@equiknox_]

At last someone made this list. Nice vid and still waiting if you would have a review for sm4 and em10

[@paolocermelli8108]

Hi Timmy I've bought both Pilgrim and Davinci. 2 wonderful sets! I agree with u talking about Pilgrim's details and very clean bass. I've been really surprised about the clarity of Davinci with such an amount of bass. You've done a really good job!!! By the way my point of comparison the Xenns Top.

[@Gizaudio]

Thank you!

[@Demagogiarock-qp6qb]

Hi Paolo, I am interested in Pilgrim or Davinci, what it has best vocals ?

[@paolocermelli8108]

@@Demagogiarock-qp6qb Hello, maybe the Pilgrims, because the overall sound is brighter than the Davincis so they can seem clearer, but as I said Davincis are surprisingly clear considering the amount of bass. Anyway two great iems, you can't go wrong with either of those.

[@3kr270]

I'm wondering if you had plans on covering the Dunu Titan S2. Would be interested on your opinion on it, especially with the amount of accessories they offer for the price!

[@marktspot]

Great list, but few IEMs that I would add are the Tangzu x Seeaudio Shimin Li Encounter Edition, Moondrop May, Dita Project M, Simgot EM10, Unique Melody MEST mk2, and the Canpur CP622B.

[@kenjikodai]

Project M is good but Pilgrim beats it for me

[@charlie86ist]

My one and done would have to be the FIR Audio VxV. Super versatile and balanced, non-fatiguing, natural sounding and not source dependent. Tactile bass a plus! ❤

[@cppdee]

Current lineup: Aful 5, Meze Advar and Letshuoer Z12 Gold edition. Love the Aful 5 because of the versatility. Meze gives that luxury feel and they are a single DD so they are really small and discreet. Really enjoy the deep sub bass of the Z12s. There are so many iems out there it is tough to stick to just 1 IMO

[@shaunbrady15]

Pilgrim is soooo good! Also just got the m5est and agree it’s also amazing

[@mrnobody1st]

I ordered SM4 5 minutes before the end of the sale, I hope it's not mistake

[@vpdemantova]

Hello friend! I will buy my first IEM in Brazil, is for classical music, and I like a nice design.. I almost buying the Fanmusic Truthear Blue, what else would you recommend? Thank youuuu

[@vpdemantova]

I also need a mic..! It’s better to buy a cheaper one with mic, or upgrade the cable later? Can I use the Zeros with a mic cable? And the red ones are batter than the blues? Thank you!!!

[@Flawliet93]

i think sennheiser ie200 and ie600 should be on the list.. change ie200 to copper 4.4mm cable + right eartips + tape mod, the sound still amazed me

[@nicko7201]

Hi Timmy😂 your channel always brings a smile to my face 😊

[@Gizaudio]

thank you!

[@tommyregnstrom9308]

I have UNBREAKcable with C101 chip and 20ohm adapter for my Crinical Red and TANGZU Tang Sancai Eartips very happy but it's a hobby so being happy with the sound, fit etc is not enough when you don't get further after waiting a few weeks on the stuff. Necessary for Hard Rock, Metal and training …..next😳 0:03

[@Shadsix]

seems like quite a few Meh, No Moondrop Aria for ppl that like sub bass and clear highs, No Tangzu FUDU for ppl that like like a Leather chair feel, No Fiio FH3 for ppl that like a large sound stage thats eyeopening. All great buys.

[@edmush2010]

This guy is too humble, Galileo is also pretty universal. It is my everyday set, I listen to anything on it. I really like how homogenous the sound field feels, on the most budget hybrid iems there are audible problems with driver synergy.

[@fallguy1771]

I have the crinicle red since christmas. Use them for sunday services as a bass player and drummer. I have issues with the bass popping already when the kick drum hits or a strong attack on a bass string. So leaving no choice but to keep what i need turned down. I have sensitive ears so i have never pushed these iems hard enough that they should be damaged.

[@esperla123]

Great video, I just bought the Studio 4 inspired in your recommendations 👍

[@liammadridista2395]

I have the new dusk and I'm still looking at new Iems 🤣 send help.

[@umtbozkr2358]

I agree on the Pilgrim. I own Moondrop Variations, didn't expected that the Pilgrim would be as good as the Variations, but even $120 less, the Pilgrim is as good as the Variations. Little less bass, but just plenty enough. Thanks Timmy, you're recommendations always is spot on with my taste!

[@sickassbeats]

@gizaudio you said that you preferred the Pula PA02 OVER the Aful Performer 5 and its more affordable? Why didn’t you include it in the video?

[@Gizaudio]

P5 more versatile than pa02 so its more appropriate for this list.

[@sickassbeats]

Oh ight good vid then mb👍👍👍👍

[@moonsofjupiter]

The Symphonium Meteors are an amazing all rounder all day listen.

[@grihoriko8800]

I have Wan'er, Performer 5 and first Aria and between all of them I like P5 the most, second is Aria and third is Wan'er and to be hones I don't really like Wan'er sound all that much, its sounds kinda flat to me. I had 7hz Zero before and I liked it more than Wan'er. Btw if anyone want to buy P5 and want to use it outdoors, be aware that it has a vent hole right in front and when you're riding something like a bike or electric scooter or have a strong wind it will create so much noise so you can barely hear music. I never heard anyone mentioning that problem with P5.

[@Bapakgw]

who gonna use $200 iem outdoors, mine always stays on my desk. i care too much

[@grihoriko8800]

@@Bapakgw me apparently, I'm using my P5 every day when I go outdoors And what's the difference for example between P5 and sony xm4 headphones for example? Lots of people using them outside every day, so I don't really see a problem And btw I use all my iems outside since I prefer headphones at home, so it depends on your use case

[@Sylveighty]

Will you review Tangzu Wan'er Studio Edition?

[@lokrj]

No Subtonic Storm giveaway 😢👉🏻👈🏻 ??

[@illitero]

The Performer 5 was my third or fourth pair of IEMs that I SOMEHOW managed to get for around $45 in open-box condition. No idea how I managed it. They were barely released so nothing was around on them yet (meaning the seller didn't know and I didn't know what they were really worth). Since then I've continued to fill out my collection with cheaper models and found myself using those SIGNIFICANTLY MORE than the Performer 5 and I'm not sure why. I really enjoy them, they're among the more comfortable, and they're always surprising me with giving detail. Maybe I'm scared of breaking them? Or (more likely) the FOMO is a genuinely real beast and the new shiny things must have my $20-$40 every time despite the objectively worse sound I'm always getting😑

[@pano3232]

thank you for the Ranking List! so helpful! have a great week

[@luqmankk4957]

Hey Timmy, would you care to review KZ Castor (Standard). Since you like the Wan'er so much, I think this can be a good alternative to it and it is priced cheaper. Plus I've never seen you review KZ products before.😅

[@EmCeBra]

Will you review Simgot SM4? If yes, please try swapping the cable to a normal copper cable. I found the SM4's cable cause grainy sound (but textured bass). Perhaps this graininess is the reason you give EA500LM a low treble score. Personally, I hate this graininess, but some people perceive it as details/air/texture.

[@psykadelikoflifelinez]

I hope to get some of these IEM for me to actually have a different tuning as well as use it for monitoring, mixing and mastering, I guess. though I got the P5 already and I really love those set..

[@corrrect]

for me it's the monarch mk3. they're truly one and done. it scales to no end with your gears also. the sound quality with desktop gear is amazing. since i have no interest in buying anymore iem's i bought the hifiman arya organic expecting to be blown away, but i returned them because they are inferior to the mk3's.

[@enjoshi-godrez8775]

Sounds about right. I dont know how anyone can be content with DF style bass.

[@user-qu3yu4uc8o]

Yo sir Tim. Between Performer 5 and Origin which one would you say has smoother treble and better treble extension?

[@yeahiamthatguy]

Isn't truthear zero og kinda harman?

[@Gizaudio]

Yes

[@xeruskun]

No lol, it scores 79% in Harman PPR, even the Reds are closer to Harman at 86%. Imho PPR below 85 should not be called Harman or what not. You can also check that those that Timmy recognize as Harman IEM scores 90% above.

[@blorg8206]

@@xeruskun this depends on the exact measurements you use. Those numbers are from Oratory's measurements where Zero Blue is a little above Harman target but others have different results and different numbers. Subjectively, the Red is not very Harman at all to me, and that's a good thing, it is not too intense in the upper mids and it has a smoother transition from the bass to the mids. Blue does have more bass than Harman though, the cut is not quite as low. Also, Harman preference scores are not THAT exact, they are valid in a broad brush but 79-86 are close as it is.

[@monahengramokhoro]

Been on break from the hobby for a while. Surprised the SA6 and Variations don't even make it into conversation anymore🔥

[@gadgetgenerationspulkit]

Subtonic Storm is an experience. Absolutely lovely set.

[@BlueAR16]

I'm looking forward to your supermix4 review

[@MizarcDev]

Ooh a Simgot SM4 mention. Hopefully a review soon.

[@GoufinAround_]

When the performer 5 is on sale for under 180, it is a no brainer. I don’t agree with the dusk sentiment because the dsp is reliant on a horribly implemented app. Not to mention that you are required to bypass any dac/amp setup you have connected to your PC to get the default dsp tuning out of the dsp cable

[@b4g4b3l]

what about the KZ ZS10 PRO X or the newer PRO 2 ?

[@kestrel8313]

I ended up buying multiple of these versatile IEMs, got the red, nova, dusk, hype 10 😂 (these are just the ones that were in the video, got a lot more IEMs)

[@residentzero]

For real? They I don't feel as bad for getting the Hype 4 and EM10 at the same time LOL

[@kestrel8313]

@@residentzero of course it's for real, I like them all

[@nickpetriashvili2863]

Is there a big jump from red to nova?

[@kestrel8313]

@@nickpetriashvili2863 the jump is quite big in my opinion, but the tuning is not the same, the nova is more exciting and the red is more relaxed.

[@Demagogiarock-qp6qb]

@@residentzero Hi, could you tell me about Hype 4 and EM10 ?

[@pedrocaceiro3936]

Hi have just ordered those Tangzu waner, what eq software can i use to tune that thing?»

[@Joe-rs9hc]

I've had the mega5est (found it too boring) xenns top and variation, and tbh I prefer the variations. Having said that, I demoed the Pilgrim noir and it gave me that wow feeling.

[@rajithfernando6200]

Thanks for the opportunity Timmy. In my currency even $300 is about 100,000. So thank you

[@dalejail]

is there a iem with mega5 tuning but better dynamics/transients and imaging?

[@kylecruz2058]

Timmy I currently don’t see the Hidition Viento-B on the ranking list, is there a reason for that or am I just blind?

[@PoRRasturvaT]

I bought a pair of Blessing 2 few years ago and I was done. Then I got into watches, and It's a lot more expensive. Help!

[@Weareonenation303]

Mega5EST graphs like the Oracle, of course Timmy is going to gush over it😂

[@blorg8206]

Mega5-EST has a lot more bass. Also I think the Oracle has substantial unit variation, while some may come close outside the bass, my one doesn't, and they are really not very close in subjective listening at all. Oracle is extremely well tuned in terms of a neutral signature but Mega5-EST has a sense of stage and "headphone-like" presentation and naturalness that I don't think I've ever heard in another IEM. For me, Mega5-EST has a special sauce a step above Oracle. Oracle also has this weird pressure thing that you need to jiggle them around a bit putting them in or the bass will sound off, something to do with the way the vents are. They are vented, they are not an all-BA set, but they are a set I actually need to use a tone generator with sub-bass every time I put them in to make sure I have them seated right, it's a weird one. Some music the Mega5-EST can come across a little too boomy, and I appreciate the Oracle dialing that back a bit.

[@matthewmayfieldmusic]

What’s your > $1K recommendation for a male lead vocalist in a live setting onstage?

[@Rajkumar-my9rk]

Hi bro can you suggest me a best iem for music as well as gaming under 50 usd in type c or with dongle

[@Lead_Foot]

My pick is the fatfreq grand maestro. Being able to switch between 4 tunings has made almost all my iems irrelevant.

[@albertrs1774]

Which one is good for gaming and having a useful mic?

[@Skeith89]

When you review Canpur CP622B ?

[@leong7656]

Hi Timmy, can suggest a 4.4 cable for studio 4? Thanks

[@bendongan2255]

Will you review the Tangzu Wan'er SE.

[@Barnsey87]

Qkz x Hbb have done me proud for 3 years.

[@filosavage7475]

Simgot Supermix 4 and EM10 review next?

[@studynowPH]

i will for your supermix 4 and em10 review. Some people over hyping these iems

[@residentzero]

I didn't over hype it; but I bought it 🤦

[@418792316]

so if you would need to pick from Tangzu Wa'ner 7Hz x Crinacle Zero 2 Thuthear hola Moondrop chu which one would you go for?

[@roadtonever]

Truthear Gate

[@418792316]

@@roadtonever so you mean hola

[@johari3829]

I've been using moondrop may but I feel like it lacking something 😅 Does anyone have eq for moondrop may I don't know how to eq to make it sounds right.

[@doniherald7745]

I got soundcore liberty 4 nc and sell everything else, wireless simply more convenience.

[@leong7656]

I just buy studio 4, any 4.4 cable intro ? Thanks

[@n07H1m]

saw this video in my KZbin recommended after partecipating in the giveaway on X, LOL

[@aRc11-11]

The crin red (two driver) really blows.

[@MistikF]

DaVinci, hype 4 or SM4/Explorer?

[@MattSimpleAudio]

Do a budget version for these pls😊

[@aRc11-11]

The blue are ice picks ramming your ears.

[@pratikkabra8238]

Please suggest me Best IEM under 90$ (All Rounder) according to you. Also if I plan to buy Simgot EA500LM or ARIA 2. Which one should I pick.

[@SiddharthSharma-uz6un]

Xuan nv

[@MM-lo6vb]

Studio 4 my precious fr

[@maegnificant]

Did you ever get to try the Timsok Ts-316 or the Hisenior Mega5EST? :) I consider both of these to be very versatile.

[@Gizaudio]

you didn't watch the video lol

[@maegnificant]

@@Gizaudio damn you got me. Still watching. Sorry :D

[@maegnificant]

Only the Timsok then :p

[@maegnificant]

I also own the Dunu Mirai and I do find it to be quite versatile, despite its unique tuning. The Timsok is more balanced with greater mid-bass though.

[@AliR03]

Will you review the supermix4?

[@AshokKumar-qm5cj]

cca trio/ kz vader balanced is the cheapest harman harman inspired iem, is that right?

[@patompoomwichitchoti6051]

Waiting full review of MEGA5est (please help to compare with Xenn top).

[@grizzly6699]

Timmy, you're a wise man. "End Game" is a lie. You always end up buying more. The IEM industry has us all hooked. Reality only sets in when we get a monthly financial report from our wallets. We then try to sell something to free up some cash, or to have an excuse to replace the IEM sized hole we now have once sold. Enjoy the music... and the hunt for the next precious purchase

[@residentzero]

When I first started this compulsion a couple years ago, I reached end game with my first IEM. Then fast forward to now and a pocket hole, I'm on the way to find the original game. See, I just did it backwards 😂

[@nhennessy6434]

My Crinacle X Dusk 2 arrives any day.

[@pmgalves1977]

My one and done was the FF Grand Maestro.

[@AiFx10]

how about 7hz sonus? do you think that still harmanish or nah?

[@aarvpaul8242]

i am very confused between p5 , origin , cadenza 4 , falcon ultra , nova , ea1000 currently i am using zero red , and i fell on some songs the instrument becomes muddy and the resolution is also not good, and also there is sibilance and granny sound when to much things are going on i am not sure what to get next , i have 240$ max.......

[@blorg8206]

Nova will be higher resolution but if you are sensitive to sibilance it might be worse than the Red, it has more pinna gain that that. I feel it's smooth enough but it's certainly more. EA1000 is detailed but to an extent "fake", it's just very bright like many Simgots. Has good percussive impact but if you say you're sensitive to sibilance not for you. Falcon Ultra is basically EA1000 with a bit more bass with balances it better but costs a little on detail and percussive impact, I think I'd still take it over EA1000 overall but they are very similar. Probably could have same issue for you. Haven't heard Origin but I have the Oxygen, for a single DD it might be the best choice although might still be too intense. Haven't heard Cadenza 4. I think the Aful P5 might be the safest bet, it's very well tuned, has good levels of detail (step up from Zero Red), excellent fit (much better than Red), and not too much in the pinna (similar or even a little less than the Red).

[@GPJ6226]

I need to buy my endgame and call it quits right after. Still searching.

[@0Roydashme]

Hype 4 long review, when? 😆

[@Omar_ZX]

God I need a loan for iem now I also am not a big fan of the waner because it aint detailed at all and if I need an eq monster I'll get the chu 2 dsp which is what I went with

[@iDeker]

What about simgot ew200? I think they’re good

[@idefkicabti4141]

Yoo the new dunu titan is out

[@cxmxc]

Timmy Davinci V2 w/switch 0 / +6 db of bass. Why so much fricking bass???? Could have been the best iem of 2024 period specially for the price.

[@milolo2.071]

tanya dsp, one dsp, zero blue, quarks dsp, chopin, chu 2 dsp, jiu, galaxy buds 2, doscino

[@quantumleo8579]

Hey I'm gonna buy the vinci your collaboration When it's available in india

[@chengo51]

Didn't you missed the Seinnheiser IE-200 ?

[@depressedbanana8670]

Cultured ones... Who knows what the song in the outro is?

[@dm41nman64]

Hmm... the Gaea which you referred back then as the most versatile is not on the list. No longer relevant anymore?

[@williamito7650]

well with the tax of 92% for products above $50, that is the biggest draw backs to buy iems in my country so I just stick with my Waner and that's it

[@trubadyr99]

I've heard numerous times that Dusk is very good, but the software that it needs is awful. Did the Moondrop update their software for the Dusk?

[@SonnyNight21]

Looking to graduate from cheap walmart skullcandy earbuds into something better for work.