Wired IEMs
DUNU DN-242
84Outstanding
$350
Full review dataDUNU DN-242 vs Softears Edge: 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.
Wired IEMs
Softears Edge
58Average
$500
Full review dataScore 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
- Softears Edge
HearWiki score
84
58
Sound
8.7
6.8
Value
7.8
5.0
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
Both shipped in 2026. These are 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.
- DN-2422026
- Edge2026
Specifications
DN-242Edge
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $350
- $500
- HearWiki score
- 84
- 58
- Released
- 2026
- 2026
- Availability
- Sold new
- Sold new
- Driver
- 2DD + 4BA + 2PL tribrid
- 1DD
- Driver type
- tribrid
- dynamic
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 4BA + 2PL
- 1DD
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- 11 mm
- Drivers per side
- 8
- 1
- Frequency response
- 5 Hz - 40 kHz
- -
- Impedance
- 35 Ω
- 16 Ω
- Sensitivity
- 110 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
- 7.6 g
- Water resistance
- none
- -
- Foldable
- No
- -
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- -
- USB-C
- No
- -
- Connector
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
- 2-pin 0.78 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
Softears Edge
The Softears Edge is a premium single-dynamic-driver IEM that prioritizes warmth, weight, and musicality over clinical precision. Its 11 mm driver delivers deep, impactful bass with a smooth, engaging timbre, though it trades some upper-treble extension and sharp imaging for a more relaxed, enjoyable listen. With a compact 7.6 g build and 0.78 mm 2-pin connector, it's a well-crafted choice for bass lovers seeking a fun, non-fatiguing sound.
- Pro:Deep, powerful bass with strong impact
- Pro:Warm, natural timbre that suits vocals and instruments
- Pro:Compact and lightweight design for comfort
- Con:Limited upper-treble extension and airiness
- Con:Imaging can blur in complex or busy tracks
- Con:V-shaped tuning may not suit purists seeking neutrality
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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