ULTIMATE MOONDROP IEM BUYING GUIDE 2022!! (Chu, Aria, Starfield, Kato, Blessing 2, Variations, S8)

[@jeus_saaa]

Damn how fast time flies. I remember getting convinced on how the Aria was the perfect IEM for me with your help and although I've gotten other IEMs that are double or even triple the price, I still come back to it every once in a while. Will probably always be my go to IEM for more years to come. Awesome list as always, dude. Keep it up!

[@miki890098]

Well, was one of those pricier iems the Kato? Because I'm really curious of how they compare, I have the Aria as well and some day I'm planning on gifting myself a Kato just to know how much better it sounds haha

[@jeus_saaa]

@@miki890098 no hence this is my entry on the KATO giveaway haha. The pricier ones I have are the Legacy 3, TSMR3 Pro, Olina and Timeless

[@zadsazhad]

@@miki890098 trust me it is worth the upgrade to Kato.

[@misterperson7070]

@@jeus_saaa Hi, can I ask something, do the tips get stuck in the ear for Aria since the stem doesn't have a lip? Also is it in good condition?

[@rothgartheviking858]

Do they get better? I just purchased them not loving them. Do they need burn in?

[@alp786]

The Moondrop-Chu for me will always have a special place as it is with this IEM my audiophile journey began!

[@alexisislas8654]

For me, the Starfield has been my favorite Moondrop IEM, although I have to say the SSP was the one that got me into the hobby so it keeps a special place in my memory. I like the Aria, very similar to the Starfield with minor differences, but still prefer the Starfield.

[@armaan_bhangoo]

I think the chu is my favourite just due to the fact that it reflects on Moondrop as a company. They could have sold it for $60 easily and yet they kept it low.

[@roderickdeleeuw2101]

Just check the reviews though. Seems like every other unit has defects on arrival or within several months. Just had to send back mine. Interesting that this doesn’t seem to be taken into account by any/most reviewers.

[@gangnamchild6310]

And still, 7hz Salnotes Zero exists :)

[@boredplayer7425]

@@roderickdeleeuw2101 My first unit hsd defects within a week, second unit after I got it replaced had them within 2 days.

[@megea792]

@@roderickdeleeuw2101 yes, u're right I got defect Chu right after I received from delivery and first unboxing it has ripped white filter under metal mesh It makes sound imbalance for long hour session and makes clogging so fast Sure Moondrop needs step up their quality control

[@roderickdeleeuw2101]

@@gangnamchild6310 Do you mean that the 7hz also goes defective easily? Or that this could be an alternative?

[@tanzhonghui]

My favourite Moondrop would be the Variations for its amazing sub-bass and smooth mids and treble. I agree that sometimes the mid-bass presence can feel lacking, but my brain tends to get used to it pretty quick. If I'm the mood I'll just EQ it up or switch to a warmer set of iems (XBA-Z5 so reeally warm/dark haha). I tried the Dusk and while the bass was really impactful and fun, it has a spike at 6Khz which I'm sensitive too, same as on the original Blessing.

[@landarr]

The Moondrop SSP holds a special place in my heart as it is the IEM that brought me into this rabbit hole. However, Moondrop Aria would take the top for me as it offers better music.

[@S85B50Engine]

Honestly, I love the Chu, for the fact that theymade something that good for us budget audio guys. And spring tips are up there with Final Type E's for me

[@aroundtheflatearth2388]

what about the bass it is okay?

[@beastmaster3374]

I Just started getting in this world of iems. Watching your channel helped me alot, and I gotta say I'm in love with your channel. From format to how you express the information. Very nice made videos. Keep up the good work!

[@Tigrexuga13]

Currently loving the Aria Snow, but man for the price point it has, the Chu really are the ones to beat in terms of value and sheer power in getting people deeper into the rabbit hole!

[@ivanparungao2099]

I love the Kato's look over the other Moondrop IEMs. The blue color looks 👌

[@nazn564]

Was literally just looking for a resource that goes over moondrop iems! Thanks so much

[@hazmanjosli1453]

The Chu has to be one of my favourite IEMs so far. I own the S12 and even then I still grab the Chu whenever I want to listen to female vocals, which is often since I listen to a lot of kpop and krnb. I'm saving up for the Moondrop Variations since it's being raved about often on Reddit and other forums including your channel. Love the vids, I hope you keep it coming, Timmy!

[@krayozmines]

u will love the variations. female vocals are great on them

[@luistohe]

Moondrop Variations is my reference right now. I've also tried the chu and dusk. Chu was too harsh in high mids and no bass. Dusk is OK bass and mids but Treble I had to EQ up to like it. Cymbals sounded bitcrushed unless EQ'd. Variations is simply the best IMO.

[@ok-qz7cx]

$500 IEMs are the best interesting observation (i know price isnt always indication of performance)

[@ExplainedExplanation]

Without a doubt the Chu is unbearable emphasized highs and peaky treble

[@krayozmines]

i agree with you. our opinions of the iems u mentioned are super similar. do you review iems by any chance?

[@Shiinamusiclyricssubs]

@@ExplainedExplanation everything is relative. It is very very hard to find another 20$ iem that has the amount of detail and soundstage that the chus have.

[@AnVu-tc7vh]

My first Moondrop was the Chu. Absolutely worth the money and it has been my daily iem for over 2 months. All thanks to your recommendation. Hope I could get the Kato this time!

[@zadsazhad]

Kato is such a big upgrade from aria. From chu? You won't regret it

[@loqueteniaquedecir]

I’ve always been in love with the Blessing’s sound and the Starfield’s looks 😍😍😍

[@prinzhernan]

Loving the Moondrop Chu, so much value at such a low cost. Looking to upgrade to the Variations soon! 🙏

[@spiritshifter]

Love how the moondrop chu sounds so clear at such a low price, responds well to EQ as well

[@_theboringuy]

Man, I bought the Blessing 2 way back when you did the first review it's my daily driver till today, but now that I have more budget I was looking for a buyers guides and you definitely delivered a great one.

[@Mark_dj86]

I think the SSRs / SSPs should have been on this list, as they are also insane value for money and can compete with way higher price range IEMs. The sound signature they have is not for everyone, and they are not the easiest to drive but they are simply amazing! I often even prefer them over my Snow Arias.

[@DaPunkNdFunk]

I tried the Starfields and I loved the presentation and tuning. The Kato are a step up in imaging and detail, but I preferred the Starfields' sound.

[@darth_cheezus]

Annnnnnnnnnnnd I'm subbed LOL. Great reviews. Litterally just bought the Aria Snow 5mins ago as first IEM for music and streaming without sweaty over ears. Now on to watching cables and earbuds. Great job man !!!!!

[@Magnetorheological]

I just received my Katos after a year with the Arias, and am very impressed with the improvement so far! Makes me kind of want to try the Blessing2s as well, but I realize I'm gonna fall deeper and deeper down the rabbit hole, so I gotta draw the line here lol Still, gonna return these Katos either way and get the matte versions if I decide to keep them!

[@Error-tr9ke]

I'm in the same boat with you haha. I hated it on the first week but man, when I paired it with a warmer dap, it definitely surpassed my expectation. I'm also curious with the Variations and Blessing 2 but I consider the Katos as my endgame iem, or else my wallet will hate me.

[@Magnetorheological]

@@Error-tr9ke Yeah, the source definitely matter with these! What dap are you running them on? I'd love to have the Blessing2s (with the custom waifu engraving haha) or the Variations, but I just can't bring myself to pull the trigger, $350+ for IEMs hurt my soul and wallet lol

[@Error-tr9ke]

@@Magnetorheological Hard agree, Katos are very source-picky from my experience. Currently using my Sony a55 with the clearaudio+ turned on. Found somewhere that these walkmans are great pair for neutral DD iems and it does. Also, almost same situation with you and Variations lol. But since I consider Katos as my endgame iem, my endgame headphones are still up for debate. My eyes are currently set on Hifiman Sundaras haha

[@spamcan9208]

How big of a step up are they from the KZ-ZS10 pro? I want something to listen to in bed, hoping they aren't fatiguing and I can get lost in the music.

[@starnutron6147]

@@spamcan9208 same here i also want to know

[@ikoboy]

Nice video! My favorite right now is the variations. I have the aria and the Kato too.

[@tengomalasuerte]

The chu is my favorite Moondrop IEM so far. Thanks for your videos. They are very informative.

[@jmv251]

I just started watching your channel, and I gotta say I'm in love. From format to how you express the information. Very well made videos. Keep it up :D

[@Gizaudio]

Thank you so much!!

[@olegok3051]

@@Gizaudio что для вас лучше КАТО или HOOK x?) Купил обе модели..можете разницу описать в двух словах?)

[@olegok3051]

@@Gizaudio what is better for you KATO or HOOK x?) I bought both models .. can you separate the contours in a nutshell?)

[@augustriandyrizkymaris2894]

either kato or blessing 2, both are my favorite.... but still kato is the way to go for everyday carry!! just love the natural timbre of kato even though blessing 2 are more technical and better imaging.

[@ankuro22]

Loving the looks of the blue Moondrop Kato! That's probably my favourite out of them!

[@pixxel17]

I was convinced to get the Arias by this channel earlier this year as a holiday gift to myself. I absolutely love them as my first venture into IEM’s, definitely fits my style and music taste perfectly. I always have loved a more fun and energetic sound, and that’s what they bring for a great price! I do want to venture into more of a balanced IEM in the future and something more detailed. I’d like to experience that side of both the IEM scene and my music as well. Amazing video as always, informative and easy to listen to!

[@Gizaudio]

Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed the Aria. Which one are you looking to try next?

[@pixxel17]

@@Gizaudio I'd love to try the Blessing Dusk if I can set aside enough money, but the Kato seems like a great upgrade for me as well!

[@Pegaleone]

I've just recently gotten the Chu's whilst looking for a replacement for my se215's which I had for a long time but have been meaning to replace because they just don't sound great. The Chu's blew me away for how much better it sounded for much less! I've only really dipped my toes in the audiophile space and I'm glad I made that choice to pick up the Chu's!

[@bryantgonzalez9902]

DIPPED TOES ?!!? AYO WTFF

[@gamergtx2602]

Good choice. I'm addicted to moondrops too, have the chu, ssp, ssr and aria. Kato next :)

[@btfr5129]

Yoooo!! Been wondering when you were going to do this!! Fantastic guide considering your extensive knowledge of Moondrop! My current favorite Moondrop IEM is the Blessing 2, I got it recently based on Crinacle's, Shuwa-T's, and your recommendation! Really enjoying the tuning and resolution!

[@sinnFeiN]

I’m quite new in IEMs, however, I have got the Chu and B2:Dusk and I love them both in their price brackets. Next to my DT1990, they sure deliver

[@JACloudy]

I have just bought the Aria Snow Edition recently and I just in love with them if I’m being honest. They sound great with the music library i have.

[@juliogarrido3824]

Got my Aria this past weekend and I’m loving it so far!

[@tomaslazatinjr]

My Moondrop journey started with the Elven Maiden Aria followed by the Blessing 2 Dusk, Chu and the Aria Snow. I love using them all but I have to say my favorite is the Blessing 2 Dusk, not because it is the most expensive, but in my opinion it is the best value for money. I am now saving up to add more IEMs to my Moondrop collection. Great video as always.

[@impeace1012]

Have you buy the kato one? Hehehe

[@tomaslazatinjr]

@@impeace1012 Unfortunately I still have not bought a Kato. I have the Stellaris but I do not recommend it.

[@KBRW12]

I've never had a Moondrop IEM but I think the Kato Blue might be my fav based on how clean it looks.

[@krayozmines]

YES!!! I was hoping for this video and u finally uploaded it. Thank you Timmy Edit: my fav moondrop is variations

[@mrnobody208]

I can only say out of the iems I own the starfield is my favorite one, I own the chu as well but the starfield was my first buy into the moondrop catalog and I’ve really liked them. Not only the sound but the design of them are great, really shows the star vibe on them.

[@xLinkTriforcex]

Love the Chu simply for introducing me to a whole new hobby, and that at a low price too!

[@braegrimes8870]

Great stuff Timmy! I love my Chu’s, but was lucky to try Kato and Starfield - such a Moondrop fan hard to pick my favourite!

[@edwin97a]

I love my Moondrop Bamboo that my dad bought it me. I'm a freshman HS student and the Choo is my daily. Greetings from Canada!

[@SayaaNara]

I got the Moondrop S8's! Absolutely gorgeous looking and gorgeous sounding. If you want technicalities, they are for you

[@datdudeinred]

Love the variations. That subbass is 🔥

[@Kramburger11]

I love the Aria Snow. It's a straight upgrade from the Chu if you enjoy the lower amount of sub bass, and looks gorgeous to boot. I haven't tried the original Aria, but I did try the Starfield and I much prefer the Snow to that.

[@shiro214okane]

I use this IEM for gaming LOOL. I can hear and locate the foot steps, explosion and gunshots better, also its not fatiguing to wear using silicon eartips. not fan of foam cause it feels uncomfortable for hours, its just like wearing a headset.

[@imcynex]

@@shiro214okane do you use the snow or the original version of the aria's?

[@shiro214okane]

​@@imcynex aria snow, most of the time. i hear more foot steps or small sounds like rustling in the grass at battle grounds better, vs more bass like aria *OG* the gun shots, grenade, drowns them. and if i want more bass for non competitive games or single player I just go to the laptop's dobly atmos app and tweak bass there. for mic I use my phone connected to a usb to computer. with a cheapo 2$ phone stand. snow replaced my OG aria cause. 1. no paint chipping 2. I could make it sound like aria OG very easily, in a saved profile EQ.

[@devaxionrl8189]

Lower amount of bass is a upgrade? Lol

[@Mafakasik]

​@@shiro214okane do you use some amplifier ?

[@beaglecruz308]

Great video Timmy I hope to see this video skyrocket again 💪

[@joshdanzeisen1846]

My favorite is definitely the Dusk. Amazing midrange and balanced bass... But this new blue kato looks stunning!!

[@arshtat]

even with all the hype, i still really prefer the Aria. its sound sig just hit the sweet spot for me.

[@nickmandeville6216]

New to the iem scene, very reminiscing of the custom mechanical keyboard scene 😹 PREFRENCE

[@v_1922]

i love the way katos look- their angular design is really unique!

[@mikiyabe1975]

Finally the content i really needed now, been having a hard time choosing a new Moondrop IEM upgrade from Sparks, i love the tuning of moondrop sparks compared to other brands so i wanted to try there other IEM, but having a hard time choosing due to price, specs, and looks 😅

[@donniedarko5529]

I think the best Moondrop would probably be the Variations, it just seems really well balanced, but the Kato also looks fun!

[@Brian_Romska]

Great vid, keep it up! I bought the original aria awhile ago and among the 4 or 5 other similar price iems I have I like the aria the best, best iem purchase I've made, so far atleast...

[@bbrunorocha]

my favorite iem is the moondrop aria ! I got it by you recommendation and i'm really happy with it !

[@GoToBedSheeva]

Just found out about them and this video has me so interested in making my first purchase!

[@Tridux_]

The blessing 2 dusk edition fits my preferred sound signature the best. Very good mid-range and treble without killing the bass off.

[@TheJosephlau]

Because of your videos, I got the blessing2s! I could not be more happy!

[@kiko865]

my favorite moondrop would be the SSR, it's my first iem and holds a special place in my heart and the tuning that got me to Moondrop. i have an Aria now ofc it is better but SSR still got it for me

[@josepimentamarques415]

Beautiful new blue color !!! Would like to see a close comparison between Variations and S8 !?

[@gigigigigi8827]

Kato was my favorite moondrop bcs of it's looks and my god the new color makes it pop even more.

[@asandwich_8850]

I remember starting with the KZ EDX Pro, after that, as a birthday present, I bought the Aria and loved them. I recently wanted an upgrade, but didn't want to spend that much either, so from what you mention, the kato are the upgrade to the Aria. For now, I'm very happy with these two. I will give the KZs away or I don't know.

[@peterfreiberg4501]

I've been looking at the Arias for quite a while, but I think I'll wait and save up another penny or two for the star field ones, because they simply look better and fit my ears better. Fantastic vid

[@joab7742]

im recently got chu for my first iem, and i absolutely love it

[@kushie1916]

I have to say my favorite is still the starfield and it's mainly because of the aesthetics. I love the starry design and the box art is gorgeous. Though, the blue KATO will most likely edge it out but i can't say since i don't own one yet.

[@Skammer69.99]

I like how the moondrop Chu has a very clean and minimal design, with a simple gold pattern on a black body on the rear.

[@turtlet7201]

Aria was such a good iem to buy, especially being a beginning. But I have always been curious about the KATO and this blue one is beautiful. Very nice!

[@zadsazhad]

I've been using Aria and tried the Kato from my cousin. now I'm going to buy the kato as it is everything about Aria but better in every possible way

[@turtlet7201]

@@zadsazhad thanks for your thoughts, will try Kato eventually! What is something you noticed about Kato that stood out, compared to Aria ?

[@zadsazhad]

@@turtlet7201 i would say the imaging is so much better and it is also one of the weakness of Aria. Other than that, better technicality. The tuning is surprisingly similar maybe just tiny bit different and the sound stage is wider. Everything from Aria but a step up

[@CiViLi7eD]

I love chu!. It's very cheap but sound neutral and best for budget for me. Nice Video

[@arieldarmalaksana8159]

Right now I only have the Chu, newbie to this IEM hobby and looking forward to try the Kato if I won the giveaway 😁 Thank you Gizaudio & HifiGo 🙏

[@gerarddelmundo869]

The Moondrop Aria Snow edition looks like my cup of tea but the Katos look reaaaaally good

[@Mark_dj86]

You won't regret buying the Snow Arias!

[@vijaykrishna6508]

I just began to listen to Moondrop Chu last weekend and I was amazed by how clear the sounds were that I would really like to listen to other IEMs to understand how they are different from the Chu.

[@kevinmccarthy3753]

I have the Kato and I think they are fantastic. I can’t imagine diminishing returns not taking over quickly from there but non the less I have my eye on either the B2 Dusk or Variations.

[@DefinitelyNotAShikiRyougiFan]

Hi, I'm new to watching your channel and the audio community as a whole. Damn these past few years have been the start of many hobbies, much to the dismay of my wallet.

[@Gizaudio]

I'm on the same boat lol. I started a few hobbies in recent years as well and ......my poor wallet

[@rommerndza4419]

I bought the aria, based on your recommendation, and it is now my favorite IEM

[@britishskiing]

The Variations follows the Harman target curve near enough perfectly which it’s why it sounds amazing. Nowt more complicated to it really.

[@darth_asta6595]

my favorite moondrop IEM right now is the Blessing 2. in love with the neutral signature

[@yadudeofu]

Love my starfields! Due to concerns of the paint chipping I´m considering getting the Chu for commute and such tho.

[@evilofalfa]

How long the time you use until chipping? Paint

[@ricardodelnegro6240]

Have mine for 2 years. No chipping still.

[@yadudeofu]

@@evilofalfa ​They still are in perfect condition, had them for almost two years. I´m just arfaid they might chip, some said they do easily. Chu for not having to be considerate of that. Like just throw them in a pocket and not worry about scratches/chipping/etc.

[@miso9355]

I've had mine for more than a year now and they are completely fine. No chipping at all.

[@burns0100]

@@miso9355 Same, no chipping. I feel like they can take a fair bit of abuse. I throw my in my timber bedside table draw all the time and they are like new. I know for a fact I've banged them together even so I feel like the paint issue might be more of a defect on select units because of how the paint process is done.

[@ZhekaTrololo]

I love my Moondrop Aria 2021 (dark). Bought them on 11.11 last year, delivered week after New year and I'm enjoying them since then. Bought aftermarket cable with mic for them also. Still all looks and functions like brand new.

[@mayzapancar]

Love the kato & kanas pro, the fitting very comfort and passive anc work too

[@Alfonso__]

I love the CHUs, if only they had a little more bass they'd probably be near perfect for me (especially for the price)

[@ferigalung]

moondrop IEM i ever try is chu and aria, and my favorite one is aria. I hear many good things about kato, i definitely wanna try it out 😁

[@yogapantsdaddy]

Kato definetely worth every penny~

[@I.G_NL]

Watched the other video just 2 hours ago, lol. Currently maining starfields, which are also my first iems

[@lestercorpuz6101]

I like how the aria's sound but I like the aria snow editions design a lot more, plus i wont have to worry about the snow chipping paint like the original arias

[@vincentriviere568]

Just bought the Chu a couple weeks ago. Amazing for the price (just amazing)

[@Wheva]

Thanks for the vid, just bought the chu, now want to compare aria vs aria snow.

[@jonathandas3533]

Got the Chu after watching all the hype. Been using KZ ZS10 Pro for over a year before the Chu. The KZ is like Eva Green sitting on my lap while running her finger across my face, all the while sporting a VERY seductive smile. The Chu, felt like Amy Adams, but with just a smile that feels like the sun is shining on my face on a cold morning inside a Gulag. I run to both.

[@amldesh]

Mine lost half a sound of right side after 1 month.. Removed all the filters... Still the same..

[@ragnaricks]

@@amldesh Rub alcohol with Qtips and then try putting silica pellet on it to dry out the moisture after cleaning. Worked on mine.

[@amldesh]

@@ragnaricks good idea ❤️ I'll try

[@illMindeDThoughtS]

Anyone who has tried the Blessing 2 and the Variations. How is the fit? They appear to have the same nozzle size. Unfortunately the B2 nozzles we're too big for me but i loved the sound.

[@DailyBag]

Moondrop SSP I'm still using it . Although The paint has been worn out but the sound of SSP still superb. Thanks for this Moondrop Buying Guide I'm still Thinking upgrading for Aria or Starfields though

[@Spanos28]

dude this guy work a lot for this content nice job !!!

[@Gizaudio]

Thank you!!

[@banjoMaster]

Love my Arias the most, but also love always having a pair of Quarks in my backpack

[@Andyhandle]

Great review, thanks. I'm thinking of my next IEMs. Currently using the 7hz Timeless a lot and love them. Though on some tracks the sound stage is a bit narrow, imaging not totally precise (some orchestral pieces) and some pieces are a shade missing in emotional involvement. I was thinking about the Variations and wondered what key differences there might be or any other IEMs to consider upto around $700). Thanks for any thoughts 🙂 (Love a wide range of music, from classical, traditional, female vocals, dance...).

[@zachjaybseazer94]

For a similar planar sound but with wider stage, check out the Raptgo Hook-X, it is like a warmer wider Timeless

[@dineshkota2576]

Love the Moondrop Aria, such a great IEM for the price 😍

[@kajetan9550]

I understand it may be helpful for some, but I feel that you make more and more videos on the same topics, about the same IEMs again and again. One of the last ones (one week ago) about new IEMs from Fir Audio was a very nice breath of freshness

[@oswaldo939]

My first Moondrop iem's are the Chu and i've been amazed of how good can a cheap iems sound like, so far my favorite pair when i want to listen music, id like to get my hands on something else from Moondrop!

[@victorverduzco8278]

Loving my Blessing 2 Dusks as my fave moondrop IEMs rn!

[@cubeninggen]

Thanks to you, I am able to set guidelines for buying Moondrop earphones Thank you.

[@gravie6952]

I love the dusk and it's versatility. I prefer it over the b2 because of the bass response

[@apple1966tyu]

Loving mine Moondrop Aria they are just perfect for my needs

[@jjcornelio7741]

Watching this while using my OG Blessing 2!

[@udaysamsani5599]

I would'nt say my fav but I want to hear Moondrop variations. Thanks alot for the content.

[@Danny-oj2rc]

I love your videos. They are so approachable and easy to understand for someone who isn’t super familiar with IEMs just yet. I was wondering could recommend a pair for me. I love to listen to Aurora both the studio versions and the acoustic versions of her songs. They tend to have a some tribal like drums and she also has a very sharp vocal. I really enjoy the emotion and theatrics. if you (or anyone reading) could give her a listen (try the seed, running with the wolves maybe) and give me a recommendation I would really appreciate it!

[@TKGenesis]

I'm very new to IEM and just bought the CHU waiting for the arrival. Pretty sure it will be the epic one 🔥

[@SilverCrypt]

Honestly, I don't have anything from the moondrop line currently. However, because my budget, I am leaning towards the aria snow. As far as I can understand, it is supposed to have a clearer separation between instruments than the original aria and lower bass. They're not the same, but I really think I prefer a clearer distinction between sounds than the muddiness of the OG (according to some reviewers) On another hand, I'm new to the whole audiophile market, so I don't really have any experience with the topic.

[@Manupassero]

very impressed by the Chu, blown away by the Variations!