Wired IEMs
CrinEar Reference
86Outstanding
$350
Full review dataCrinEar Reference vs Moondrop Kadenz: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the CrinEar Reference comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 86. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: CrinEar Reference - Outstanding overall at around $350.
Wired IEMs
Moondrop Kadenz
76Great
$190
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
- Moondrop Kadenz
HearWiki score
86
76
Sound
9.1
8.0
Value
8.9
6.2
Price (USD)
$350
$190
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 2 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.
- Reference20262 yr newer
- Kadenz2024
Specifications
ReferenceKadenz
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $350
- $190
- HearWiki score
- 86
- 76
- Released
- 2026
- 2024
- Availability
- Sold new
- Still sold new
- Driver
- 2DD + 3BA hybrid
- 1DD
- Driver type
- hybrid
- dynamic
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 3BA
- 1DD
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- 5
- 1
- Impedance
- 16 Ω
- 35 Ω
- Sensitivity
- 104 dB/mW
- -
- Active noise cancelling
- -
- No
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- 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 with a hybrid 2DD + 3BA driver setup, offering a balanced and detailed sound signature. It features a detachable 4.4mm balanced cable and relies on a tight seal for passive isolation, making it a strong choice for critical listening at its price point.
- Pro:Hybrid driver configuration delivers rich, layered sound
- Pro:Detachable 4.4mm balanced cable for flexible connectivity
- Pro:Good passive isolation from proper eartip seal
- Con:No active noise cancellation, so external noise isn't fully blocked
- Con:Requires a balanced source to fully utilize the 4.4mm connector
- Con:Fit may be finicky for some users to achieve optimal seal
Moondrop Kadenz
The Moondrop Kadenz is a wired single-dynamic-driver IEM that builds on the legacy of the KATO with a natural, vocal-forward sound and impressive technical performance for its price. It offers a spacious stage, clean imaging, and a well-balanced tuning, though its lighter bass and somewhat dry character may not suit bass lovers. The premium build and accessories add value, but the shell design and weight can pose comfort issues for some users over extended listening sessions.
- Pro:Natural and transparent midrange with excellent vocal clarity
- Pro:Strong technical performance with good soundstage and imaging
- Pro:Premium build quality and generous accessory package
- Con:Bass impact is limited and lighter in presentation
- Con:Overall balance can sound dry or thin to some ears
- Con:Shell shape and weight may cause discomfort during long sessions
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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