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AudioSense AQ4 vs CrinEar Daybreak: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the CrinEar Daybreak comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: CrinEar Daybreak - Outstanding overall at around $170.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

CrinEar Daybreak leads on 4 of 4 measures.

  • AudioSense AQ4
  • CrinEar Daybreak
HearWiki score
65
84
Sound
7.6
8.8
Value
-
9.2
Price (USD)
$180
$170

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The CrinEar Daybreak is 3 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price. For 3 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • AQ42022
  • Daybreak20253 yr newer

Specifications

AQ4Daybreak
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$180
$170
HearWiki score
65
84
Released
2022
2025
Availability
Discontinued
Sold new
Driver
1DD + 3BA hybrid
1DD + 2BA tribrid
Driver type
hybrid
tribrid
Driver configuration
1DD + 3BA
1DD + 2BA
Drivers per side
4
3
Impedance
10 Ω
20 Ω
Sensitivity
101 dB/mW
105 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
-
No
Detachable cable
Yes
-
Connector
MMCX
-

What reviewers said

AudioSense AQ4

The AudioSense AQ4 is a wired hybrid in-ear monitor that pairs a single dynamic driver with three balanced-armature drivers for a four-driver setup. Designed for audiophiles, it offers a detachable MMCX cable and a compact, low-impedance build that works easily with portable sources. Its sound signature aims for detailed, multi-layered reproduction across the frequency range.

  • Pro:Four-driver hybrid design for rich detail
  • Pro:Detachable MMCX cable for easy upgrades
  • Pro:Low impedance (10Ω) pairs well with most devices
  • Con:No noise cancellation, so isolation relies on fit
  • Con:High sensitivity may reveal hiss from noisy sources
  • Con:Requires a quality source to avoid harshness in treble

CrinEar Daybreak

The CrinEar Daybreak is a well-rounded wired IEM that delivers a balanced, natural sound with a slight sub-bass emphasis, making it a strong contender around the $170 price point. It excels at reproducing acoustic music with lifelike mids and offers a non-fatiguing treble, though its overall presentation may feel too subdued for those seeking a more colored or dynamic experience. While not class-leading, it competes effectively as a reference-style option with minor trade-offs in build and technical performance.

  • Pro:Natural, lifelike midrange especially for acoustic tracks
  • Pro:Balanced tuning with solid bass texture and non-fatiguing treble
  • Pro:Good value for the price in its category
  • Con:Stock cable feels cheap and flimsy
  • Con:Can sound shouty on certain recordings
  • Con:Lacks excitement for listeners wanting more coloration

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

Compare something else

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New comparisonAudioSense AQ4CrinEar Daybreak