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
73Great
$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
73
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
- 73
- Released
- 2026
- 2024
- Availability
- Sold new
- Discontinued
- 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 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
Moondrop Kadenz
The Moondrop Kadenz is a wired single-dynamic-driver IEM that builds on the legacy of the KATO, offering a natural, vocal-focused sound with impressive staging and imaging for its price. It comes with premium accessories and flexible DSP options, making it a versatile all-rounder, though its lighter bass and potentially uncomfortable shell fit are notable trade-offs.
- Pro:Natural timbre and transparent mids
- Pro:Excellent soundstage and imaging for a single DD
- Pro:Premium build and accessories
- Con:Light bass impact and somewhat dry balance
- Con:Shell shape and weight may cause comfort issues
- Con:Fit can be problematic for some ear shapes
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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