Wired IEMs
CrinEar Reference
83Great
$350
Full review dataCrinEar Reference vs Letshuoer S15: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the CrinEar Reference comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 83. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: CrinEar Reference - Great overall at around $350.
Wired IEMs
Letshuoer S15
71Good
$330
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
CrinEar Reference leads on 3 of 4 measures.
- CrinEar Reference
- Letshuoer S15
HearWiki score
83
71
Sound
9.1
8.1
Value
8.9
5.1
Price (USD)
$350
$330
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 Reference 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.
- Reference20263 yr newer
- S152023
Specifications
ReferenceS15
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $350
- $330
- HearWiki score
- 83
- 71
- Released
- 2026
- 2023
- Availability
- Sold new
- Discontinued
- Driver
- 2DD + 3BA hybrid
- 14.8 mm planar magnetic
- Driver type
- hybrid
- planar
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 3BA
- -
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- 14.8 mm
- Drivers per side
- 5
- -
- Impedance
- 16 Ω
- 30 Ω
- Sensitivity
- 104 dB/mW
- -
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- -
- Connector
- 4.4 mm balanced
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
What reviewers said
CrinEar Reference
The CrinEar Reference is a wired in-ear monitor that combines two dynamic drivers with three balanced armatures in a hybrid setup, offering a detailed and engaging sound signature. Its secure fit provides good passive noise isolation, making it a reliable choice for critical listening at its price point. The detachable 4.4mm balanced cable adds versatility for audiophiles with compatible sources.
- Pro:Effective passive noise isolation from a snug seal
- Pro:Hybrid driver configuration delivers a rich, layered sound
- Pro:Detachable balanced cable for enhanced audio quality and durability
- Con:Requires a source with a 4.4mm balanced output for full benefit
- Con:No active noise cancellation, so ambient noise may be present in louder environments
Letshuoer S15
The Letshuoer S15 is a planar magnetic IEM that prioritizes a warm, rich, and smooth listening experience over aggressive treble or razor-sharp detail. It offers a comfortable fit, solid build, and a musical, dense presentation that stands apart from brighter competitors, though it may not satisfy those seeking maximum resolution or airy highs. The included modular cable and improved ergonomics are notable perks, but its overall performance may not fully justify its premium price for all listeners.
- Pro:Warm, smooth, and musical tuning with dynamic bass
- Pro:Comfortable ergonomics and quality build
- Pro:Includes a versatile modular cable
- Con:Lacks the detail and treble refinement of rivals at this price
- Con:Can sound dark or subdued for those preferring brighter signatures
- Con:Vocal tuning may not be as crisp as expected
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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