Softears Volume S 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 3 of 4 measures.

Softears Volume S
Yu9 Audio Que

HearWiki score

Sound

8.4

8.5

Value

7.5

8.0

Price (USD)

$320

$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

Yu9 Audio Que (2025) against Softears Volume S (2024). 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.

Volume S2024
Que20251 yr newer

Specifications

Volume SQue

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $320; $400
HearWiki score: 74; 83
Released: 2024; 2025
Availability: Discontinued; Sold new
Driver: 2DD + 2BA hybrid; 1DD + 3BA hybrid
Driver type: hybrid; hybrid
Driver configuration: 2DD + 2BA; 1DD + 3BA
Driver size: 10 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 4; 4
Impedance: 31.2 Ω; -
Weight: 6.1 g; -

Specification comparison of Softears Volume S vs Yu9 Audio Que
Spec	Softears Volume S	Yu9 Audio Que
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$320	$400
HearWiki score	74 / 100 Good	83 / 100 Great
Released	2024	2025
Audio
Driver	2DD + 2BA hybrid	1DD + 3BA hybrid
Driver type	hybrid	hybrid
Driver configuration	2DD + 2BA	1DD + 3BA
Driver size	10 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	4	4
Impedance	31.2 Ω	-
Design
Weight	6.1 g	-

What reviewers said

Softears Volume S

The Softears Volume S is a wired hybrid IEM that delivers a well-rounded, balanced sound signature with impactful bass, smooth midrange, and a relaxed treble that avoids listener fatigue. It's a polished, versatile choice for those seeking a broadly pleasing tuning without aggressive peaks.

Pro:Balanced, non-fatiguing tuning
Pro:Strong, well-defined bass
Pro:Smooth and natural mids

Con:No noise cancellation
Con:Requires a wired source
Con:May not suit treble-heads

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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