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DUNU DN-242 vs SOFTEARS STUDIO 4: 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
  • SOFTEARS STUDIO 4
HearWiki score
84
75
Sound
8.7
8.2
Value
7.8
6.0
Price (USD)
$350
$450

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 3 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 3 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • DN-24220263 yr newer
  • STUDIO 42023

Specifications

DN-242STUDIO 4
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$350
$450
HearWiki score
84
75
Released
2026
2023
Availability
Sold new
Still sold new
Driver
2DD + 4BA + 2PL tribrid
4BA
Driver type
tribrid
balanced-armature
Driver configuration
2DD + 4BA + 2PL
4BA
Driver size
10 mm
-
Drivers per side
8
4
Frequency response
5 Hz - 40 kHz
-
Impedance
35 Ω
12 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
5.6 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 STUDIO 4

The Softears Studio 4 is a professional-grade wired IEM built around four balanced-armature drivers arranged in a three-way crossover system. It is designed for studio recording, mixing, and stage monitoring, offering a precise and analytical sound signature for demanding audio professionals. Its lightweight build and standard 2-pin connector make it a practical choice for on-the-go or desk-based use.

  • Pro:Four balanced-armature drivers for detailed sound
  • Pro:Three-way crossover for clean frequency separation
  • Pro:Very lightweight at just 5.6 grams
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Low impedance may require a quality source
  • Con:Not ideal for casual listening due to analytical tuning

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-242SOFTEARS STUDIO 4