Wired IEMs
DUNU DN-242
84Outstanding
$350
Full review dataDUNU DN-242 vs FiiO FA9: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the DUNU DN-242 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: DUNU DN-242 - Outstanding overall at around $349.
Score breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
DUNU DN-242 leads on 4 of 4 measures.
- DUNU DN-242
- FiiO FA9
HearWiki score
84
66
Sound
8.7
7.8
Value
7.8
4.5
Price (USD)
$350
$500
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 DUNU DN-242 is 6 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 6 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.
- DN-24220266 yr newer
- FA92020
Specifications
DN-242FA9
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $350
- $500
- HearWiki score
- 84
- 66
- Released
- 2026
- 2020
- Availability
- Sold new
- Still sold new
- Driver
- 2DD + 4BA + 2PL tribrid
- 6× balanced armature
- Driver type
- tribrid
- balanced-armature
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 4BA + 2PL
- -
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- -
- Drivers per side
- 8
- 6
- Frequency response
- 5 Hz - 40 kHz
- 15 Hz - 40 kHz
- Impedance
- 35 Ω
- 16 Ω
- Sensitivity
- 110 dB/mW
- 110 dB/mW
- Active noise cancelling
- No
- No
- ANC type
- none
- none
- Transparency mode
- No
- No
- Companion app
- No
- No
- Custom EQ
- No
- No
- Wear detection
- No
- No
- Controls
- none
- none
- Voice assistant
- No
- -
- Weight
- 6 g
- 6.2 g
- Water resistance
- none
- none
- Foldable
- No
- No
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- Yes
- USB-C
- No
- No
- Connector
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
- 3.5 mm
What reviewers said
DUNU DN-242
The DUNU DN-242 is a premium wired in-ear monitor built around an eight-driver tribrid configuration, combining dual dynamics, four balanced armatures, and two planar drivers through a five-way crossover for a cohesive, natural sound. Its lightweight 6-gram build and interchangeable 2-pin connector system add practical versatility for audiophile use. Launched in 2024, this model targets listeners seeking detailed, multi-driver tuning without wireless features or onboard controls.
- Pro:Complex tribrid driver array for layered, detailed sound
- Pro:Very lightweight at just 6 grams for extended comfort
- Pro:Interchangeable 2-pin connector adds cable flexibility
- Con:No active noise cancellation or transparency mode
- Con:No inline controls or app support for adjustments
- Con:Requires a separate amplifier for optimal performance due to 35-ohm impedance
FiiO FA9
The FiiO FA9 is a 2020 flagship in-ear monitor built around six balanced-armature drivers in a 3D-printed shell, offering a switchable tuning system for versatile sound signatures. It delivers deep bass extension and airy treble, with a lightweight design and easy drivability, though it lacks wireless features and active noise cancellation. This wired monitor is aimed at enthusiasts seeking a highly adjustable, source-friendly listening experience.
- Pro:Excellent build quality with 3D-printed shell
- Pro:Multiple sound-tuning switches for personalization
- Pro:Deep bass and airy treble for a balanced sound
- Con:Fit may be uncomfortable for smaller ears
- Con:Tuning options can be overwhelming for some users
- Con:Instrument separation is only middling
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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