Wired IEMs
Softears RSV (Reference Sound Five)
72Good
$730
Full review dataSoftears RSV (Reference Sound Five) vs Yu9 Audio Que: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Yu9 Audio Que comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 83. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Yu9 Audio Que - Great overall at around $399.
Wired IEMs
Yu9 Audio Que
83Great
$400
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Yu9 Audio Que leads on 4 of 4 measures.
- Softears RSV (Reference Sound Five)
- Yu9 Audio Que
HearWiki score
72
83
Sound
8.2
8.5
Value
6.5
8.0
Price (USD)
$730
$400
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 Yu9 Audio Que 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.
- RSV (Reference Sound Five)2021
- Que20254 yr newer
Specifications
RSV (Reference Sound Five)Que
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $730
- $400
- HearWiki score
- 72
- 83
- Released
- 2021
- 2025
- Availability
- Discontinued
- Sold new
- Driver
- 5BA
- 1DD + 3BA hybrid
- Driver type
- balanced-armature
- hybrid
- Driver configuration
- 5BA
- 1DD + 3BA
- Driver size
- -
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- 5
- 4
- Impedance
- 8 Ω
- -
What reviewers said
Softears RSV (Reference Sound Five)
The Softears RSV is a five-driver balanced-armature IEM that prioritizes a smooth, natural, and engaging listening experience over raw technicalities. Its tuning is widely described as safe and euphonic, making it an easy recommendation for those who value musicality and long-term comfort, though its imaging and peak technical performance lag some rivals in its price bracket. It serves as a refined, tonally pleasant alternative rather than an analytical or reference-focused monitor.
- Pro:Very smooth and inoffensive tuning that is easy to enjoy
- Pro:Natural timbre and good tonal balance across the spectrum
- Pro:Good resolution with an organic, non-fatiguing presentation
- Con:Imaging performance is a notable weak point
- Con:Technical resolution trails some competitors at this price
- Con:Not a strictly accurate reference tuning despite the name
Yu9 Audio Que
The Yu9 Audio Que is a wired hybrid IEM that delivers a refined, flagship-inspired sound for under $500, blending controlled bass, organic mids, and airy treble with impressive spatial cues. Its vented shell prevents pressure buildup and offers strong technical performance, though the wide nozzle and fit may be a consideration for some listeners. Overall, it presents excellent value as a versatile, engaging single-set option.
- Pro:Organic and natural midrange presentation
- Pro:Controlled bass with good punch and texture
- Pro:Airy treble that adds sparkle without harshness
- Con:Wide nozzle may cause fit issues for some ears
- Con:No noise cancellation or wireless options
- Con:Stock cable could feel stiff for some users
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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