Introduction
The collaboration between Moondrop and Crinacle is highly esteemed among audiophiles worldwide. Recently, the Moondrop x Crinacle series launched the new version of DUSK, equipped with 2DD+2BA+2 Planar Magnetic drivers. It comes with both 3.5mm and DSP Type-C cables. Let's dive deep into this new Tribird IEM.
I want to extend my gratitude to Treble Well Xtended for giving me the opportunity to try the MOONDROP x Crinacle DUSK IEM. All opinions expressed here are my own, and neither Treble Well Xtended nor the brand influenced my review.
Design and Build Quality
The outer shell is 3D printed using medical-grade resin, and the faceplate is made of carbon-fiber material with a wooden wave pattern. "DUSK" is engraved on the right side of the shell. The design is simple yet robust. This version includes the Moondrop Free DSP USB-C cable and a standard 3.5mm cable.
Comfort and Fit
The shell size and fit are similar to the Blessing 3 version. While they may not fit small ears without some adjustments to the eartips and placement, they fit exceptionally well in medium to large ears. Thanks to their lightweight design, you won't feel like you're using large shell IEMs. The inner side features curves and bends that contribute to a snug fit and effective noise isolation. For this review, I used SpinFit W1 Eartips.
Sound Quality
The MOONDROP x Crinacle DUSK comes with two different cables: a 3.5mm and a DSP Type-C cable, each offering a distinct sound profile. For the 3.5mm stock cable, I used a Macbook, Questyle M15, the stock cable, the DUSK, and Spinfit W1 Eartips. For the DSP Type-C cable, I used a MacBook Air, the DSP Type-C Cable, the DUSK, and SpinFit W1 Eartips.
Overall, the DUSK is a slightly improved version of the Blessing 3 IEM, with major changes in bass and treble detailing. The rest of its performance is similar to the Blessing 3 IEM. If you would like to read my review of the Moondrop Blessing 3, you can click here.
3.5mm Audio Cable
Bass
The DUSK's bass has nice rumble, texture, and clarity but lacks quantity for my preference. It feels balanced and tight. Despite having two dynamic drivers for the bass, it falls short compared to other IEMs like the Hype2/4, Monarch MK3, and 64 Audio Volur, which provide a better head-filling and physical presence of bass. Bass decay is a bit faster.
Midrange
The midrange has excellent texture, body, clarity, and tonality, slightly forward compared to the bass. It effortlessly produces details and nuances, making male and female vocals sound realistic and accurate. There is no noticeable sharpness or harshness in the upper midrange, resulting in an impressive vocal performance.
Treble
The treble is crisp, sparkly, detailed, layered, and musical. Each instrument is distinct without blending into others, providing a 3D holographic treble presentation. Upper frequencies are well-rounded, and instruments sound realistic and natural, offering an immersive and musical sound with crisp sparkle.
Free DSP Type-C Cable (default setting)
Bass
The bass quantity improves significantly with the DSP Type-C cable, both in sub-bass and mid-bass, while maintaining the quality seen in the 3.5mm version. However, it still lacks the tactile and physical bass feeling present in other 2DD IEMs for low frequencies.
Midrange
The midrange remains similar to the 3.5mm stock cable, with no significant changes noted. My opinions remain the same as above.
Treble
The treble is slightly brighter and spicier with the DSP Type-C cable, adding more life and musicality to the performance.
Soundstage & Imaging
The soundstage is holographic with good height and depth but lacks width. Imaging and layering are precise, allowing you to pinpoint instruments and vocalists accurately.
Conclusion
The MOONDROP x Crinacle DUSK is available globally at $359 and can be found on select websites. This IEM is hard to find locally, and claiming warranty requires shipping it to China at your own cost. If you're looking for a mid-fi endgame IEM, the DUSK should definitely be on your list. It offers mid-fi endgame-level performance, especially with the DSP Type-C cable.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comment section of this blog. Once again, I would like to thank Treble Well Xtended for the opportunity to audition the MOONDROP x Crinacle DUSK in-ear earphones. If you enjoy our content and want to stay updated on similar products, follow our WhatsApp Channel now! Happy listening!
