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TRN TA1 vs TRUTHEAR GATE: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the TRUTHEAR GATE comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 82. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: TRUTHEAR GATE - Outstanding overall at around $22.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

TRUTHEAR GATE leads on 4 of 4 measures.

  • TRN TA1
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
61
82
Sound
6.4
7.5
Value
5.5
8.5
Price (USD)
$28
$22

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 TRUTHEAR GATE is 5 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 5 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • TA12019
  • GATE20245 yr newer

Specifications

TA1GATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$28
$22
HearWiki score
61
82
Released
2019
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
1DD + 1BA hybrid
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
hybrid
dynamic
Driver configuration
1DD + 1BA
-
Driver size
8 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
2
1
Frequency response
10 Hz - 40 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
16 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
107 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
none
buttons
Weight
20 g
2.7 g
Water resistance
none
-
Foldable
No
-
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
No
Connector
MMCX
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
-
1

What reviewers said

TRN TA1

The TRN TA1 is a budget-friendly hybrid IEM that pairs an 8 mm dynamic driver with a balanced armature for a warm, relaxed sound. It's easy to drive thanks to low impedance and high sensitivity, and offers good value with a comfortable, well-built design. While its treble impresses, the bass is somewhat rolled off and the tuning may not appeal to everyone.

  • Pro:Easy to drive with any source
  • Pro:Comfortable and well-built shell
  • Pro:Pleasing highs and clear treble
  • Con:Bass is rolled off and lacks punch
  • Con:Mid-bass can sound slightly cloudy
  • Con:W-shaped tuning may not suit all tastes

TRUTHEAR GATE

The Truthear GATE is a wired, ultra-budget in-ear monitor that delivers surprisingly mature tuning and solid detail for its low price. It offers a balanced sound with good sub-bass extension, though it has a few tonal quirks and ergonomic compromises. Overall, it's a strong value pick for budget-conscious listeners seeking a natural, no-frills listening experience.

  • Pro:Excellent tuning and clarity for the price
  • Pro:Good sub-bass extension and overall balance
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for most ears
  • Con:Slightly lean and thin lower-midrange
  • Con:Treble can be rough or lacking refinement
  • Con:Ergonomics could be better for some users

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 comparisonTRN TA1TRUTHEAR GATE