SOFTEARS STUDIO 4 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

Score 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 STUDIO 4
Yu9 Audio Que

HearWiki score

Sound

7.0

8.5

Value

6.0

8.0

Price (USD)

$450

$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 2 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.

STUDIO 42023
Que20252 yr newer

Specifications

STUDIO 4Que

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $450; $400
HearWiki score: 55; 83
Released: 2023; 2025
Availability: Discontinued; Sold new
Driver: 4BA; 1DD + 3BA hybrid
Driver type: balanced-armature; hybrid
Driver configuration: 4BA; 1DD + 3BA
Driver size: -; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 4; 4
Impedance: 12 Ω; -
Weight: 5.6 g; -
Connector: 2-pin 0.78 mm; -

Specification comparison of SOFTEARS STUDIO 4 vs Yu9 Audio Que
Spec	SOFTEARS STUDIO 4	Yu9 Audio Que
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$450	$400
HearWiki score	55 / 100 Average	83 / 100 Great
Released	2023	2025
Audio
Driver	4BA	1DD + 3BA hybrid
Driver type	balanced-armature	hybrid
Driver configuration	4BA	1DD + 3BA
Driver size	-	10 mm
Drivers per side	4	4
Impedance	12 Ω	-
Design
Weight	5.6 g	-
Connector	2-pin 0.78 mm	-

What reviewers said

SOFTEARS STUDIO 4

This wired in-ear monitor is built for studio work, featuring four balanced-armature drivers arranged in a three-way crossover to deliver precise, analytical sound. It's aimed at recording, mixing, and stage use, offering a lightweight and professional tool for musicians and engineers. With a low 12-ohm impedance, it's easy to drive from most devices.

Pro:Accurate, reference-style tuning ideal for critical listening
Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
Pro:Four balanced-armature drivers provide clear detail and separation

Con:No noise cancellation, so isolation depends entirely on ear tips
Con:Balanced-armature-only design may lack deep bass punch for some listeners
Con:Pricey for those not needing professional-grade monitoring

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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