Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk Review (Gaming Focused)

My thoughts and opinions on the Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk. If you are looking for a banger set for music, buy them and think later.
My Twitter: / freshreviewsyt
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Link to purchase my gaming gear (audio ratings can be affected by source & ear cups / tips) (IEM ratings are solely based on gaming features we look for and do not account for resolution changes across price brackets. As more things come out and/or new innovations in the audio space - certain things may also move up or move down):
__________________________
✅ Wallhack Headphone Tier List:
(A+) HD 490 Pro: amzn.to/4bjJl3e
(A+) Sennheiser HD 800S - amzn.to/3CJYvMW
(A+ to A) HE1000SE - amzn.to/45m1OIg
(B+) 900 Pro x - amzn.to/35aVutL
(B+) DT 1990 - amzn.to/3CGauei
(B+) Sennheiser HD 560S - amzn.to/3oTAY74
(B+) HarmonicDyne Zeus Elite - www.linsoul.com/products/harm...
(B-) Fiio JT1: amzn.to/4agCZQZ
__________________________
✅ Wallhack IEM Tier List (Mid Range):
(A- to B+) XENNS Top - www.linsoul.com/products/xenn...
(A- to B+) Intuaura Splendor - www.linsoul.com/products/intu...
(B+) Yanyin Canon 2 - www.linsoul.com/products/yany...
(B+) Thieaudio Hype 4 - www.linsoul.com/products/thie...
(B+ to B) Aful Performer 8 - amzn.to/46o0Mgq
(B) Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite - www.linsoul.com/products/kiwi...
(B) Yanyin Canon: www.linsoul.com/products/yany...
(B) Dunu Vulkan - www.linsoul.com/products/dunu...
__________________________
✅Wallhack IEM Tier List (Budget):
(B to B-) Simgot EM6L: www.linsoul.com/products/simg...
(B to B-) Truthear x Crin Zero (OG or Red WITH adapter): amzn.to/3Pk6gQ1
(B- to C+) 7hz Sonus: www.linsoul.com/products/7hz-...
(B- to C+) Dunu Kima: www.linsoul.com/products/dunu...
(B- to C+) Kiwi Ears Quartet (best all rounder): www.linsoul.com/products/kiwi...
(B- to C+) Simgot EW200 - www.linsoul.com/products/simg...
(B- to C+) Truthear Hexa: amzn.to/3OqOiwo
__________________________
✅ Wallhack IEM Tier List (High End):
(A) 64Audio Volur - 64audio.com
(A) GL-AMT16 - www.linsoul.com/products/gold...
(A-) Monarch MK3 - www.linsoul.com/products/thie...
__________________________
✅ My Amp/Dac:
Topping DX9: www.linsoul.com/products/topp...
__________________________
✅Affordable amp/dac:
iFi Zen Dac v2 - amzn.to/3xchaQe
Topping DX3 Pro+ - amzn.to/3SgDth7
SMSL C200 - amzn.to/3Nui0Am
SMSL DO400 - www.linsoul.com/products/smsl...
__________________________
✅Monitors:
Asus 1440P 360 (primary) - amzn.to/44oPUxg
Asus PG259QN: amzn.to/3qMXNuG (Secondary)
__________________________
✅ Top Mice Picks:
G Pro Superlight 2: amzn.to/46mOOTL
Pulsar X2H / X2 & X2V2: amzn.to/3xx0Dru
Pulsar Xlite V3 ES: amzn.to/3tiRhRd
Vaxee Outset AX Wireless: www.vaxee.co/
WLMouse Beast X: www.wlmouse.com/?ref=yzptre79
__________________________
✅ My Keyboard:
Asus Rog Falchion RX LP: amzn.to/4b963uM
_________________________
✅Mousepad Picks
Artisan Raiden XSOFT (balanced/speed)
LGG Saturn/Neptune PRO (balanced/speed)
ESPTiger Tang Dao (balanced)
Padsmith TOD/Crucible (control and speed)
_________________________
✅Computer Components
Case: Phanteks NV7 - amzn.to/3UBOrBV
CPU: AMD 7950x3D - amzn.to/3rduC7C
GPU: MSI 4090 Suprim - amzn.to/3NTChAO
Mobo: Gigabyte Extreme X670 E - amzn.to/3XwsEex
Webcam: Elgato Facecam Pro - amzn.to/3R9ksQ0
As an Amazon Affiliate - I earn from all qualifying purchases (all links above are Amazon Affiliate Links and support the channel)
#counterstrike #apexlegends #valorant #gaming #thefinals
Timecodes
0:00 - Intro
2:25 - Build & Extras
4:58 - Competitive Gaming
5:45 - Apex
11:22 - Examples
13:30 - Crossover to COD
14:41 - Valorant
15:57 - Take Away

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Keep in mind with the dsp cable there are alternate tunings to choose from. I wasn’t able to get the dsp cable to work with some games (the dsp connection would freeze on windows and cycle to my amp dac and back to the dsp connection). If anyone has a fix let me know. The alternate tunings could potentially solve some of the area mentioned. Also keep in mind I generally keep my listing based on default tunings, but these do seem like they could be EQ’d quite nicely. Worth a shot, especially if you are getting the set anyway for some good music sessions.

[@KaibillKaan]

if you cant figure out a fix, timmy from gizaudio posted the EQ profiles he got from crin, in case anyone ended up losing the dsp cable and wanted to EQ as an alternative option.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@KaibillKaan oh that’s awesome

[@domchan3578]

I thought you only need DSP cable to EQ with app, after that you can just use 3.5 cable. That’s what other reviewers have said.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@domchan3578 I’ll look into it. I did not realize! I thought it was limited to while using the dsp cable

[@domchan3578]

@@FreshReviewsYT no your right….rewatched gizmodo video on it. He used android wavelit files for analog cable.

[@jonathantran5821]

Fantastic introduction of VOD reviews with supplementary anecdotes. Please keep including these in your headphone/iem reviews.

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

Thank you for your gaming perspectives, which helps a purchase decision for multiuse scenarios. Much appreciated.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

My pleasure!

[@unkleEL]

Here we go. Just the video I was waiting on. Thanks Fresh!

[@eepyblueberry.]

fr, needed his opinion on them

[@FreshReviewsYT]

❤️

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@eepyblueberry. Ty both!

[@choppercozy]

always the main reviewers opinion i wait for, i heavily make purchasing decisions based on the gaming aspect. truly appreciate your reviews man keep it up!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I appreciate that!

[@whthppndndnwll]

I really liked the footage breakdown you showed, Fresh. All situations were highly relatable to me playing stealth and immersive sims. Not knowing the correct floor and wasting an opportunity is exactly why audio makes a difference. I'd appreciate more of this.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I’ll make sure I get more visualizations in every Audio video moving forward. I think it’s easy to say what something does well. But I think when talking about what something doesn’t do well videos are very helpful

[@whthppndndnwll]

@@FreshReviewsYT Agreed. And I think your biggest detractor on YT might actually learn something from this... or not...smh

[@baru00]

Thanks for the review! Been waiting for your opinion on the gaming aspect of the dusk ^^

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Glad I could help!

[@user-vr6vy8nu1j]

love it, the video is more detailed than ever.nice keep going!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@SamSubSonic]

Loving the setup. The improvement is insane. Love your content

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Appreciate it!

[@zertbrown4642]

the gameplay clips with the contexts are super helpful

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I’ll try to include more moving forward. So that I can explain everything clearly.

[@Doggie64]

Oh no, another item to go on my wish list. Thanks for reviewing these Fresh. Woof!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@ShadelessDen]

Another great video!🎉

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@zanderxu4113]

Great informative review! Any word on a more comprehensive review of the topping DX9?

[@o0Fizzle0o]

was waiting for this! i would really appreciate if you revisited this review and tested the different EQ profiles available for the DSP cable (at least with the games that dont take issue with it) to gain a more complete understanding of where it falls on the list. EDIT: i JUST saw your comment. cant wait to see your findings when you get a chance!

[@agentshenron]

Thanks for the review Fresh! Damn I had high hopes for this one for Apex and CoD. Looks like I might cancel this one and stick with my Hype 4s for now. 🔥review as always brother.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty brothwr

[@RealMe-ju9hh]

Just found your channel and feel like its a perfect match for my current buying preferences. I’m looking to upgrade from apple earpods (use them for both mic and audio). Looking for an IEM that does music well as well decent for gaming. Any iem and/or mic combo recommendations from Fresh Reviews or other viewers?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Don’t know of any good mic cables. Haven’t tested many but the ones I did I didn’t like at all

[@dennisoo7610]

Great Review! As a seige player, I would love it, if you can include seige since there is so much audio cues in that game and I've been searching for a good IEM for it.

[@tonktosujerry8907]

Awesome and detailed review. How do these line up to their predecessor the Blessing 3? Is the verticality worse on these with the driver swap, or is it in the same league as the B3? I'm inbetween the Dusk and the Blessing 3 for my IEM purchase but don't want to go with the Dusk if the B3 has an undeniably better soundstage- but I also don't want to miss out on the punchy bass for music listening and less competitive gaming if the soundstages + imaging are similar between the two. Thanks for all your work!

[@Kazunori_xd]

i'm honestly considering these if gaming is good

[@justiziact4295]

Great review again! Can you review qoa aviation anytime? I really wonder is this good budget iem.

[@Aimbot1223-wq8ri]

Hello Fresh, I am grateful for the content of your review here. I am an apex predator player from China. I saw your iem evaluation video on the domestic website before . I think your play habits and the requirements for headphone audio are very similar with mine. I have always been fond of Restoring iem, so I bought bl3 as a replacement for my ie40pro, but after my actual experience, I felt that I was not as comfortable as before when I heard the long-range footsteps, so I began to look forward to the new dusk. Now it seems that I may use ie40pro back. You can also try this. For me, it is the best of all the iem I have contacted so far. Thank you again.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I will need to take a look! Thanks for the info. Let me know if you try something on the top of my list like the xenns top or splendor ii!

[@Aimbot1223-wq8ri]

@@FreshReviewsYT ofc. Wish your channel better and better!

[@stormsxii2461]

Amazing video as always. I have a couple quick questions here. Would you rate the splendor 2 over the kiwi lite or not. Wanting to test aome iems before testing the 490 pro out

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yes it’s above the lite

[@EvLTimE]

Thanks for the video and tier list. I have question related to headphones. I have Arya SE + k9 pro ess combo. Is it worth upgrade to he1000 in hifiman lineup or branch out and try hd800s? I have also hd560s and had some really (out of head soundstage experience + dynamic drivers do something special with sens tuning) good experience. So how was your experience with hd800s with upgraded gear since your last video (2-3 years ago)? Even from my experience I could say that amp/dac matters a lot + cables (not much as other components but cooper vs silver is different enough to try out) Also i read on hifi forums that hd800s get some silent revision (Irish batch vs German change tuning a bit by adding bass and taming treble). Thanks.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I think you may find more benefit upgrading your amp dac tbh

[@aledsionwright]

Hi Fresh, long time watcher and bought a few products based on your recommendations. Recently I’ve been really wanting to get into the wireless space but not wanting to lose too much audio quality… I obviously had to try the Maxwells which sounded great but weren’t the best for Apex and I’ve settled on the Bayerdynamics MMX200. I would really recommend you test them out, they’ve replaced the DT 900 Pro X in my setup and the mic quality is great!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Will look!

[@Squ1d_4k]

Which do you prefer ? Yanyin cannon 2 or DT 900 Pro X ,any recommendations for the $250 mark in either IEM or HEADPHONE Form whichever delivers more at the price point ( WITHOUT DAC OR AMP , I Will get one prob a later date but I'm really looking for a plug and play experience just lmk what you think is better later down the line) Thx in adv

[@lazuardyakbar5430]

Hey Fresh , I was wondering if there's a chance you would try Sony MDR-MV1... Their 360 advertised audio works well on my daily gaming & music use.

[@LM-pg9hy]

Not sure if you made a vid review of the Hidiz mp145 iems but youve got to try them out. Theyre great

[@Firelord_Ozen]

Love these in depth reviews. Not many people talk this "IN-DEPTH" about Gaming in particular. I love good audio music wise, but I'm mainly gaming. So these are very insightful. What's a good IEM for accurate imaging? Given you had lots of position problems with Apex. What would be recommended in a similar price range?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

The yanyin canon 2 is great

[@coldsoul]

Great detailed review! So I'm looking for like the best all around for gaming, music and movies etc. The games I mostly play are like Tarkov, CS, so would you recommend the hype 4's over the dusk or should I save up a bit get something like the monarchs mk3?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I do recommend them over the dusk for gaming. You could go higher tier, but I personally rank the splendor 2 above the mk3 and it’s less $. The yanyin canon 2 and hype 4 are very good

[@Kinrian2797]

Cant wait to get my hands on a dusk. Been daily driving blessing 2 dusk but wanted alittle bit more bass. Between the two of them what was the difference that is subtle or obvious.

[@Val-sy6mr]

Hey, great vid! i’ve wanted to ask if the moondrop mc2 cable is a good iem cable. I’m mainly choosing this because it has a mic and wanted to know your opinion on it

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I haven’t tried personally!

[@silentKeys20]

One thing I've learned after trying several IEM's and Headphones, is that you can't really have the best for both worlds (music and gaming), or it is impractical to expect the best of both in one peripheral. You're much better off having a dedicated peripheral for gaming (treble centric, which is pretty easy to find with cheap alternatives.) and then having another for your musical needs because it's much more subjective. Or, you could have something very neutral and have different EQ profiles for each.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I agree, to an extent! I have many really nice sets for gaming that transition very very well for all needs. For instance, the top and hype 4, the new cinocotres and doscinco. All very nice !

[@FreshJ1v3]

I like the simgot EM6L you recommended in budget tier for Apex, everything you said about them in game is 100% true to my ears and they sound really good with music too. Solid pick for sure! Thanks for this review as well, top notch!@@FreshReviewsYT

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@thedefiguy2984]

i love under pressure bro, first vinyl i ever bought. need logics mixtapes on spotify asap lol

[@MuseR.]

LETS GOOOO 😤😤😤

[@justjace_608]

hey fresh, thanks for another helpful review! do you happen to know if the moondrop dawn pro dac/amp is any good for gaming? it would be interesting to see if a sub 100 dollar dac/amp can perform well for games

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Not too sure! Testing the hifiman ef600 currently and then can maybe check out some cheaper ones

[@karansingh4445]

Hey man love the videos, sorry my question isnt about these iems but the Splendor 2. Do you think the Splendor 2 is better than orchestra lite for Warzone?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I haven’t an and b tested them. But I love the splendor 2 in cod

[@3saja]

Hey Fresh, your channel mirrors my priorities more than anyone else, thanks for the review. How do the Dusks compare to the Splendor II in terms of games and general listening? I’m deciding on a IEM that I’ll be able to play games with at a high level under 400 that can still handle my music listening (a lot of hip hop). Thanks.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Splendor 2, and the Yanyin canon 2 are great for both music and gaming. The splendor 2 is my preference. It’s a bit more impactful in the bass but doesn’t feel muddled. The canon 2 is a great option if you can’t get your hands on the splendor

[@3saja]

⁠​⁠@@FreshReviewsYT I see; thanks, I’m just still on the fence because if the Dusk has superior technicality and I’m paying the same amount for the Canon 2, (I think the Splendor is out of stock I can’t find it anywhere) I don’t want to regret not getting the Dusk if it’s not that big of a difference in games. Would you say that the Dusk is much better than the Canon or Splendor in terms of audio quality and tuning? Also dyk where else I can look for the Splendor?

[@Davinmk]

Hey, love your content! For a game like overwatch, do you expect your headphone and IEM tier list to change?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yes! I would expect it to be different. But I would have to estimate that anything on my list should be very good. I’d only expect something to possibly go up a + or - for instance I could maybe see an A going to an A- but I don’t think an A would somehow turn into a B.

[@Davinmk]

@@FreshReviewsYTmakes sense, thanks a lot for the in depth reply, ur the goat! ❤️

[@gyrotta]

hey dude first video i saw from you was the glsswrks akari mousepad review and this popped up in my recommended and i thought i'd click it since i wanted to upgrade from the b2d and didnt realize it was the same guy until i checked your channel you have great content so keep it up you got a subscribe from me, just curious have you tried out the thieaudio monarch mark 2's looking to get a new iem and want to go full endgame with this one and the thieaudio monarch mark 2's seem like a solid choice for me considering they don't have a lot of bass or treble they're netural which i love since i hate shouty or bassy iems i want pure neutral and so if you have tried them out i'd like to know opinions for gaming as in if you can hear the enemies and all the sfx etc. thanks a bunch for the content

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I like the mk3 a bit more than the 2. Better comfort for long durations of time and sound amazing. Work well in game also

[@wcghavii7625]

Ant lion just made gaming iems that come with a mic can you review the duos? Compared to the other budget gaming iems list you have they aren't really gaming oriented like these thanks.

[@electro7456]

Nice review! Is there a big difference between your B+ iems and the kiwi orchestra lite?? I only play Apex

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Not a massive difference, but one that’s big enough for me to stick to the different tier for my own personal play. If you’re strapped for cash I wouldn’t upgrade. But yea, main differences will be in the significant areas. separation region and overall depth perception etc. the lite is VERY good though.

[@arniixgaming]

Hey I have a question. Do you know if the Audient EVO 4 is both amp and DAC? Asking cuz I know the XLR ports have preamps for the mics, but idk if that’s the case in the 3.5mm dac port

[@legendarytony6418]

Thank you for your review ! just wanted to know if they are comfortable enough to be wear long periods of time ? thank you !

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Very! I think though comfort is a very subjective thing. But they are very ergonomic and light weight. I had no issues at all I could play for 8 hours straight with no discomfort.

[@nonameeeeEeno]

How comes it that you only have bout 30.000 subs??!!! you run a channel that (from the quality of your vids) I would at least expect to have 500k + Hopefully in the future Wish you all the best and thanks for the great content

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Thank you

[@eastcoasthandle]

Glad to see that COD is added to the list of games. Which IEM is the best for cod so far?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I like the splendor 2 a lot

[@mr.impact7368]

Freshreviews=Freshlegend

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@leucius2811]

Great video brother Big Fan I got a question i want a Gaming focused iem for footsteps and directions i want wallhacks for 100+ dollars what would you recommend?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Crinacle zero blue OR Simgot Em6l

[@AzureMaou]

i would recc the simgot. those are amazing.

[@SpicyKalabasa]

em6l

[@hichristiangoodbye]

Hi! How does the Raptgo Hook X stack to your rankings right now? Is the EM6L better than it now?

[@dawggyfood]

I really appreciate your gaming perspectives! How would you compare these to the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lites, in terms of gaming performance?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

The lite is better for gaming. These won’t be moving onto my wall hack certified list right now (unless you’re possibly a Val main)

[@dawggyfood]

@@FreshReviewsYT Thanks for the reply!

[@Caldya-Niv]

Hello I wanted to thank you for the great review. I would like to ask you a quick questions. For a budget between 300 and 500 euros. What do you think is the IEM for Apex and cod ?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Honestly, I can save you a little $$. I really enjoy the intuaura splendor II right now

[@FreshReviewsYT]

If the splendor is not available, I’m enjoying the hype 4, xenns top, and yanyin canon 2

[@Caldya-Niv]

@@FreshReviewsYT Thank you so much and thank for all the suggestions.

[@caggz]

Hey Fresh, What are your thoughts on the PULA PA02 or MYER-AUDIO CKLVX D41 for gaming (mainly CS2)?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Haven’t tried them

[@brgadoinks]

Hi! Have you tried the truthear crinacle zero blues for warzone? how was it? Can you still recommend it?

[@vsynccx4263]

Damn I was hoping you would like these more for gaming. I was considering these iems heavily but saw one of your other reviews speaking highly of the Orchestra Lites and im unsure now. I play only competitive titles but also enjoy music, hiphop/rap with bass. You have any updated recommendations for a budget around $350>?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Try the splendor II or hype 4

[@vsynccx4263]

@@FreshReviewsYT Thanks so much

[@Wonduhs]

I got the dusk but then refunded for xenn tops, It's my first IEM and I'm looking foward to them. This review helped me out thanks

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Let us know how you like them

[@Wonduhs]

@@FreshReviewsYT will do, I’m not a super crazy audio guy but I like my music and games. I play a ton of apex ,I’ll be coming from dt990 headphones to try my first set of IEMS

[@Wonduhs]

@@FreshReviewsYT I just got the tops today and have been enjoying them. Is there any eartips you'd recommend and a amp which isn't so costly but able to give enough power to give a little rumble feeling in the bass if possible

[@Cumbolas]

Is soundstage/imaging objective or are they different for everyone? Everyone has differently shaped ear canals and such so I’m just curious if my experience with these will be different

[@AT-vj2mz]

It is objective for certain things, if the L/R driver volumes are not properly matched, directions will be off

[@grism01]

As of right now does the EA500LM or singolo beat out the simgot e6l as #1 for budget wallhack tierlist? Looking to buy a pair today but i know you havent released your review yet

[@FreshReviewsYT]

They do not

[@relyT.63]

Great video! You’re the reason i bought my orchestra lites! But Could you offer some help please. In terms of GAMING. Please rank these from worst to best! Orchestra lite Studio 4 Moondrop variations Mangird tops Dunu sa6 mk2 Thanks!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Top, lite, mk2. Havent tried the studio. Did not like the variations at all for gaming.

[@nyverinorlyth9555]

Can you compare it to the Hype 4, thank you. I already have DSP/EQ on my pc and android so I don't really care about that aspect.

[@jakf101]

I have the raptgo hook x hbb for a year and I really enjoy it for gaming never touched my headphones again lol. I am looking in the market for something new that gives me that open back feel which I know is limited as far as IEMs go. The only issue with the raptgo is the shell touches the bottom right of my ear and after a long gaming session it can bother me a bit but it goes away once I take a break. My right ear is a different shape as I get none of this at all in my left ear. Is there anything open backed that I could look into with a better shell design that is good for gaming? Or should I just look into a dac that would have some transparency mode built in so I can just use any iem? I do prefer the open sound even with headphones at my pc but can get away with airpods pro for music so transparency mode makes a difference. I have tried loads of different tips with the raptgo to try get it to fit well for long sessions but I am looking at my options as there is so many newer shell designs out there that will be more comfortable overall.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Not aware of anything fully open. If you want a really nice IEM though check out the splendor 2 or splendor purple. Enjoying them a lot. Hype 4 is killer also

[@jakf101]

@@FreshReviewsYT thanks for replying. When I meant open I probably just meant semi-open like the audio64 duo.

[@Velotican]

Hi Fresh! As this IEM has six or seven tunings to choose from and I dont think you mentioned this in the video, I was curious as to which tuning you used for the review (I think you used the DSP Default?) and whether you tested the analog performance or other DSP settings and what you thought of those, especially as some of these alternate tunings have elevated treble which may address your complaints in this video. I can't shake the feeling that a different preset would be much better for gaming with!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Unfortunately I couldn’t get the dsp cable to work in apex or cod

[@Velotican]

@@FreshReviewsYT Well that's a problem! Thanks for the reply!

[@romm1e357]

can you review the tanjim one for gaming?

[@shadeshotTV]

love my moondrop starfield and with eq i love them even more, comparing the frequency response graphs between the starfield and the dusk it would seem like i would very much like the dusk, just an overall upgrade my current eq settings would line up almost exactly with the dusk on the 3.5mm cable under ~10k, i would probably do a +2-4db at maybe 12k and -7db at 15k im just an iem noob and not sure how much of an upgrade going from the starfield to the dusk would be, i went from the moondrop chu to the starfield and it was like going from a budget acoustic guitar to a much nicer one, clearer but also richer would going from the starfield to the dusk also yield a jump like that or am i mainly just going to see a "flavor" change with better technical performance

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Big upgrade imo

[@Gary-hj3yc]

Hi, I'm new to the channel and I have a question about your new rate list, you said in the Intuauras video that your main 2 iem are Intuaura ii and Hype 4, do you put Intuaura higher than Hype 4 for the price? or is it better? I bought the simgot it is good but these days I'm really into this world and give it a try to a better iem, but currently I'm struggling with the tips cuz all that I tried hurt me, maybe u can make a video about that(joking). thank u for these videos because I couldn't find the simgot who saved me from using headphones for gaming purposes and sorry for my english.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Spinfits are very comfortable. I put the splendor above the hype (slightly) for gaming

[@Gary-hj3yc]

@@FreshReviewsYT omg i didnt think u would respond, thank u for the answer.

[@matchingchong]

From your list of mid-tier IEMs, how do they rank for music? I'm looking at Yanyin Cannon II, Intuaura Splendor, and Thieaudio Hype 4 (budget range of around $300).

[@FreshReviewsYT]

They’re all very good. My pick is pretty close between the hype 4 and intuaura. Third spot would be the Yanyin for me.

[@Phantom1000]

@@FreshReviewsYT interesting! wondering why Yanyin would be the third. I am now even more torned between all these options 🤣

[@ansuman3900]

Hey Fresh thanks for the in-depth review. I'm looking to jump into the world of IEMs from a pair of HD 599s. As someone who is also a big hip hop and rnb fan but also plays a ton of Valorant (diamond level) on the side along with non-competitive single player games like Elden Ring would you recommend these as a starting point, or should I look at a different pair? Budget isn't an issue however I would like to stay around or under $400. Thanks!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Try the splendor II

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Or some of my other B+ level or higher recommendations for gaming

[@ansuman3900]

@@FreshReviewsYT Thanks for the recs! I'll check out what you suggested

[@ansuman3900]

@@FreshReviewsYT I ended up going with the Splendor IIs. Thanks again the recommendations!

[@rahulmuthu4090]

What tier would you place these at? A-? B+? Also I was wondering if there was plan to make a crinacle-style tier list for gaming iems, would be a great resource for your community!

[@thaflybear]

its a B or worse

[@syahmi360]

I see lot of your review focus on competitive gaming. Sadly i dont play a lot of competitve game. Im more into story single player game. Hope to hear your opinion on this Dusk for single player game on how immersive experience will it be.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

For single player it would be fantastic

[@NiftyOYT]

Im looking for an IEM which is good for both games and music, a one and done, do you think you would do more of a overall tier list in future?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Most of the mid range are very good for music

[@NiftyOYT]

​@FreshReviewsYT Thanks for the reply, I'm looking at 200-300+ so I'll take a look at the top 3 at least, although the new 2nd place is looking enticing given its price compared to the others

[@Vers___]

Do you consider these better, worse, or around the same to the original blessing 3 for gaming?

[@yherz3825]

Hey, I assume you put headphones above iem because in your tier list they are mostly superior. So in which case would you recommand iem > headphone ? And for music, is for example HD490 pro better than his price rivals in iem ? thanks for your content appreciate it

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Headphones and IEMs are very close. The only two headphones I really appreciate noticeable benefits over IEMs are the hd800s and 490. The he1000se with the right amp dac as well. I use IEMs mostly because I prefer the comfort / nothing making my head/ears hot

[@yherz3825]

@@FreshReviewsYT Alright thanks ! i'll maybe give a try to Intuaura Splendor II if i find them in stock

[@kritikal]

Because they are in separate price brackets, how would you say these fair against the Truthear Zeroes in gaming? I'd love to get these for music but is it a step down in gaming to the much lower priced Zeroes as well?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Step down over the zeros for competitive features.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

However, these probably have great EQability

[@Gidrah]

Have you ever tried XXL desk size mousepads? Wondering if there's a drawback to them.

[@JustPats]

hey fresh i hope you are not too busy and manage to answer that (or if anyone else can answer it) 1- what do you find best to game with, imaging/staging wise, iem's or open backs? 2-what do you recommend (infinite budget) for both styles? 3-*if open backs* which dac/amp stack you would use with it? thanks man love your content

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I prefer open backs slightly. And that’s only because the recently released hd490 is that good. The 800 is also very good with the appropriate dac amp. I like my dx9 right now. Better stacks are available but take up more space. IEMs are very close to my open backs. Just slightly under. Right now my bests based on zero budget are close between the 490 and 800. IEMs my favorites right now are probably the 64 audio volur, but they’re exceptionally pricey and the performance gain isn’t that significant compared to the xenns top or splendor ii in terms of gaming performance. All very good options I’ve listed here and any one of the above could be someone’s end game.

[@JustPats]

@@FreshReviewsYT thanks fresh!! i will be there when u hit 500k subs this year, amazing channel just going under the radar

[@Vers____]

Gaming wise is the dusk better, worse, or just as good as the original blessing 3. And how do both compare to the truthear nova.

[@chupapimunyanyo-fh4pn]

Did you connect the dsp cable directly to your pc or some other device?

[@lfnotmethenwho]

Tops still the mid tier king? Seems like you enjoy the Hype4s more these days. Great video as always👍👍

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Really enjoy the hype 4 and splendor 2

[@tamalbasu637]

Hello. I am totally confused between Truthear x Crinacle zero red and 7hz sonus. I am a complete novice in terms of IEMs. Please do guide me🙏

[@PancakeAndRiley]

What you’ve said is pretty much how I feel about the Thieaudio Hype 4, so I’m sure the Dusk is great, but market disruptor sounds like hyperbole to me.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

So I say market disruptor because if you really focus on those IEMs that have released in this price range. To me this really sounds like a set that competes more with IEMs in the kilo range than IEMs in the mid range. It’s quite good for music. If you happen to grab one lmk what you think!

[@versy187]

great review

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@dakebakeuly5193]

I never tried iem-s, wondered which iem-s could be compared to 900 pro x in terms of gaming performance and value? 900 pro x are 215$ in my local stores right now

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I’d try the splendor ii for that range

[@Laxuzz]

hey im quite new regarding iem's and i play cs2, i tought about getting the zero blue or the aria se, which one would u recommend?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I enjoy the blue for most games

[@huyqui9403]

How is it compare to the blessing 3 though, i hate the dusk’s face plate but leaning towards its tuning, im intending to EQ the blessing 3 to match the dusk’s mid and bass only.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Love it compared To the b3

[@deezcanz7138]

I pre-ordered the Dusk and this will be my first time using a cable with DSP built in. Just to be clear, will it work if I plug it into the USB-C port of my steam deck as well or nah?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

It should! (Hopefully)

[@ilovecoldplayyyy]

Hey did you ever heard the Unique melody Mentor Multiverse or the FIR Audio RN6? Did you Game with them?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Haven’t tried them yet. I am interested though

[@nickolasdparks1889]

I have had this IEM for about a week. I main Valo and I love how comfortable these are. I am using the the 3.5 cable into a FiiO K7. I cannot seem to find the best EQ setup to hear footsteps directionally so im kind of torn wether to try a more expensive IEM or try to figure out how to help with this and keep the crinical Dusk

[@nickolasdparks1889]

Intuaura Purple being that these are $100 off on Linsouls website do you think these would be a big improvement over the Dusk for gaming? Valorant footsteps specifically lolll?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I didn’t find it to be the best for gaming

[@nickolasdparks1889]

@@FreshReviewsYT Thoughts on IOAUDIO VOLARE 1DD+4BA+4EST ? as a replacement?

[@rovanmohammed6995]

kinera wyvern pro 20$ gaming IEMs please review it

[@zakaus1573]

Hi Fresh, unrelated question but what marble countertop do you have and how has it been holding up? Thanks!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Hey it’s from a local shop. The quartz has been holding up very well!

[@Jarjar415]

Any plans to test the Audeze Maxwell?

[@YurttheSilentChief1]

I wonder if high-end IEMs can have a hand in handling separation between music and gameplay sound effects. For games like the Souls series and other action RPGs, the mixing of effects and the often times intense battle music tend to create a mess of noise that heavily distracts me when I need to focus on timings and such. Will there ever be a gaming scenario that can determine an IEM's performance in separating music and in-game sound effects? Honestly, that might just be the game developer's job in properly mixing audio for their games...

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yes certain IEMs and headphones will do very well to separate those things out as best as possible compared to others that aren’t so great at those things

[@YurttheSilentChief1]

@@FreshReviewsYT Nice, I wouldn't mind seeing a small footnote in future videos with an opinion on how the IEM's handle music tracks and game effects simultaneously. A lot of people do be gaming like that nowadays.

[@enisg8966]

What cable are you using on your 490 pro plus? And are these any better or equal? I’m interested in other cables, more thickness and better quality. Any recommendations for the 490 pro plus?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I use a hart audio cable

[@omn8390]

would you prefer these over the xenns top for purely music mr. fresh?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Both really nice tbh. But I do

[@SkylineShow]

God dammit now to save for these 😭

[@Sactownubeezy]

Any good semi opened back iems you recommend . Want to upgrade from Astro A40s into some IEMs but I also need something ear pressure friendly. Plus I like to slightly be able to hear some irl surroundings. Thanks man

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I don’t know of anything unfortunately that gets you that full open back feel. I highly recommend the hd490s though if you want something Solid for headphones

[@Sactownubeezy]

@@FreshReviewsYT even just slightly open so that I don’t have to deal with so much ear pressure would be awesome. I don’t need fully open just some venting would be nice =]. If you have anything in mind in that sense. I was kinda trying to move away from headphones. But I will def check those out. Thanks man.

[@brian4893]

@@Sactownubeezy Ear pressure is mostly from the seal that you get with iems. The one "open-back" iem that comes to mind is the Raptgo hook-x from a while back. I'm not sure if the open back feature has the same effect as in headphones though, and it might still have the ear pressure of a normal iem.

[@Sactownubeezy]

@@brian4893 Hey thank you I appreciate it. I will look into these. Yea I’m surprised there isn’t many semi open back options out there. I just can’t stand feeling that isolated from my surrounding lol. But I understand that’s mainly their purpose.

[@pedrosk445]

Would you say these have better bass than the thieaudio mk3 ?

[@roasted6583]

Do you recommend these or hype 4?

[@peanutsphere6937]

This or the blessing 3 for valorant? Can i leave the dsp cable? Been using audient evo4 as dac/amp

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I haven’t an and b tested them unfortunately. The dsp cable worked for me in valorant

[@pedrosk445]

Quick question, im thinking of buying the monarch mk3 for gaming, will it perform well out the box, or it is necessary to buy a dac as well for it to be good?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

That all depends on your motherboard dac chip. I prefer a solid amp dac. Even the dx3 pro + is fine

[@pedrosk445]

@@FreshReviewsYT Will a dongle dac like a cayin ru7 , do the job? or is it better to invest in a bigger piece of hardware for external dacs?

[@hartyewh1]

B2 Dusk was also poor for gaming though wonderful for music. I wonder from a design perspective what causes the differences.

[@officialaaront]

what's the best iem for gaming?

[@SpicyKalabasa]

writing this off from my list then. gaming wise, which one would you recommend between Hype 4 and Intuaura Splendor 2?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Now that is a very very close call. It could go either way based on personal preference. Right now I give the slight edge to the splendor 2 and here is why. There is a little less of a “blend” feeling. Things within the space pop more and that additional emphasis makes me focus on things faster. The splendor 2 has been exceptional in EVERY game I’ve used it in so far. I give it the slight edge right now for me personally

[@FreshReviewsYT]

And the single dynamic driver mysteriously provides slam while staying clean to maintain order during chaos

[@SpicyKalabasa]

thanks fresh. the price of the splendor 2 seals the deal for me. Sadly, splendor 2 is currenrly out of stock. 😩 but I am willing to wait

[@SpicyKalabasa]

The Simgot EM6L has beed my daily driver for almost 5 months but one of the nozzles came off a few days ago. Maybe it's time to upgrade.