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DUNU DN-242 vs Meze ADVAR: 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
  • Meze ADVAR
HearWiki score
84
57
Sound
8.7
7.1
Value
7.8
-
Price (USD)
$350
$580

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 4 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 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • DN-24220264 yr newer
  • ADVAR2022

Specifications

DN-242ADVAR
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$350
$580
HearWiki score
84
57
Released
2026
2022
Availability
Sold new
Discontinued
Driver
2DD + 4BA + 2PL tribrid
10.2 mm dynamic
Driver type
tribrid
dynamic
Driver configuration
2DD + 4BA + 2PL
-
Driver size
10 mm
10.2 mm
Drivers per side
8
1
Frequency response
5 Hz - 40 kHz
10 Hz - 30 kHz
Impedance
35 Ω
31 Ω
Sensitivity
110 dB/mW
111 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
No
-
ANC type
none
-
Transparency mode
No
-
Companion app
No
-
Custom EQ
No
-
Wear detection
No
-
Controls
none
-
Voice assistant
No
-
Weight
6 g
21 g
Water resistance
none
-
Foldable
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

Meze ADVAR

The Meze ADVAR is a single 10.2mm dynamic-driver IEM that delivers a warm, musical, and full-bodied sound with textured bass and natural timbre. It combines a well-crafted, comfortable design with an engaging, spacious presentation, making it a versatile all-rounder for various genres. While its technicalities like soundstage and imaging are solid, they are not the absolute best in its price class, and bass control can be slightly limited at times.

  • Pro:Rich, musical and engaging tonal balance
  • Pro:Excellent build quality and comfortable fit
  • Pro:Textured, impactful bass with organic timbre
  • Con:Bass control could be tighter in complex tracks
  • Con:Passive isolation is only moderate
  • Con:Soundstage and imaging are not class-leading

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

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonDUNU DN-242Meze ADVAR