Wired IEMs
Moondrop DUSK
84Great
$400
Full review dataMoondrop DUSK vs Westone MACH 40: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Moondrop DUSK comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Moondrop DUSK - Great overall at around $400.
Wired IEMs
Westone MACH 40
62Average
$600
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Moondrop DUSK
Sound9.0
Calls6.0
Value8.0
Westone MACH 40
Sound6.0
Value5.5
Specifications
| Spec | Moondrop DUSK | Westone MACH 40 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $400 | $600 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | 62 / 100 · Average |
| Released | 2023 | 2022 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | 2 dynamic drivers + 2 balanced armatures + 2 planar magnetic drivers | BA |
| Driver size | 10 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 6 | 4 |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz | 10Hz-20kHz |
| Impedance | 14.5 Ω | 30 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 119 dB/mW | 100 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | - |
| Companion app | Yes | - |
| Custom EQ | Yes | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 5.97 g | - |
| Detachable cable | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C | Yes | No |
What reviewers said
Moondrop DUSK
The Moondrop DUSK is a sophisticated tribrid in-ear monitor that blends dual dynamics, balanced armatures, and planar tweeters, with both analog and USB-C DSP cable options for versatile use. It delivers strong, well-tuned sound across music, commuting, and casual gaming, though its performance leans heavily on the digital signal processing cable, and its noise isolation and microphone quality are only average. While the accessory package is modest, the core audio performance makes it a compelling choice in its price bracket.
- Pro:Excellent, refined sound tuning with strong detail retrieval
- Pro:Versatile USB-C cable offers low-latency audio and microphone support
- Pro:Hybrid driver array provides a wide, immersive soundstage
- Con:Sound quality is heavily dependent on the DSP cable for best results
- Con:Weak passive noise isolation, unsuitable for loud environments
- Con:Microphone performance is only average for calls or gaming
Westone MACH 40
The Westone MACH 40 is a four-driver balanced-armature in-ear monitor with a warm, smooth, and laid-back tuning that prioritizes comfort and fatigue-free listening over aggressive detail or treble energy. Its 30-ohm impedance and 100 dB sensitivity mean it benefits from a dedicated amplifier to reach its full potential. While it offers a cohesive and natural sound for vocals and acoustics, its recessed mids and intimate stage may not satisfy those seeking high energy or spaciousness. Its solid build and detachable cable make it a reliable choice for long sessions, but it may feel underpowered compared to dynamic-driver rivals in terms of impact.
- Pro:Non-fatiguing, smooth treble that avoids harshness
- Pro:Warm, natural vocal and acoustic reproduction
- Pro:Comfortable fit and detachable cable for durability
- Con:Requires extra amplification due to low sensitivity
- Con:Recessed upper mids can make vocals sound muffled
- Con:Smaller soundstage and less dynamic impact than competitors
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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