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TinHiFi DUDU Review: A budget yet great planar

SeanG

Disclaimer

TinHiFi provided me with the TinHiFi DUDU IEMs for evaluation. TinHiFi did not review, influence, or dictate the content of this review, nor did they dictate the timing of its publication. All opinions and evaluations expressed are based on my personal experience with the product and are based on my personal experience with the product. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to TinHiFi for providing the sample and to you, the reader, for taking the time to read my review.

Introduction

An interesting new player in the field of affordable planar magnetic earbuds is the TinHiFi DUDU, a 13mm planar IEM that retails for $79 dollars. With its appealing metal shell appearance and great specifications, the DUDU seeks to provide a balance between comfort, sound quality, and cost. TinHiFi this time made the DUDU with an unusual approach, which brings a more neutral tone and better resolution compared to its bigger brother, the P1 MAX II, which has a V-shaped signature. Its natural timbre and strong technical aspects set it apart, making it an attractive option for those looking for planar IEM at an affordable price. However, it might not be a planar game changer… 

so…  Let’s take a look at the DUDU’s overall value, sound quality, unboxing experience, and design.

Unboxing

Unboxing the TinHiFi DUDU is a nice experience, pretty similar to the P1 MAX II but with a few unique touches. The box is light purple and has the cute TinHiFi Panda on it, which gives it a fun and inviting vibe. When you slide the box open, there’s a soft, pillow-like top layer with some documents attached by a ribbon, which makes it feel pretty premium.

The IEMs are snug in their slots, so they arrive in perfect condition. The accessories are in a separate section, including 6 pairs of silicone tips in different sizes (S, M, and L), plus the trusty old blue foam tips. The cables have a nice brown-bronze color with grey links, which makes them look high-quality. However, they are quite thin and don’t offer a balanced option, which I think is a bit of a letdown…

There are two versions of the cables: a regular 3.5mm and a Type-C with a microphone and control button. Unfortunately, there’s no carrying case included, which is disappointing given the overall presentation and price. Despite that, the unboxing is pleasant and sets a positive tone for the TinHiFi DUDU.

1 / 9

Technical Specifications

Specs

Build and Design

The shells of the TinHiFi DUDU are made of metal, providing a sturdy and premium feel. The design looks quite similar to the T5S Mars in terms of the materials used, but the entire shell shape is different. In my experience, the DUDU is much more comfortable. The faceplate features a brushed design with “TinHiFi” written on it, adding a touch of elegance to the overall look.

13MM True Flat Diaphragm Planar

The TinHiFi DUDU features a newly developed 13mm true flat diaphragm unit. According to TinHiFi, this improved diffusion technology ensures equal sound pressure levels in both directions when the planar diaphragm vibrates, forming a figure-eight or dipole radiation pattern. does it really change things up?. It surely sounds different from their latest releases and offering a more unique sound signature for TinHiFi IEMs. In addition TinHiFi claims that the bidirectional design is said to enhance phase consistency and reduce phase cancellation, resulting in clearer sound”.

Acoustic Anti-Resonance Cavity

One of the standout features claimed by TinHiFi is the “scientific acoustic anti-resonance cavity”. Through acoustic anti-resonance modeling of cavity technology, TinHiFi claims that the propagation and reflection of sound within the cavity are analyzed to optimize the cavity structure design. This is supposed to reduce resonance frequencies and improve sound field uniformity, making the sound smoother, more realistic, and balanced. And I have to say… This Planar really sounds more natural than most of the Planars I’ve listened to…

Sound performance

Bass

The TinHiFi DUDU exhibits both strengths and weaknesses in its bass performance.

Sub Bass

The DUDU’s sub bass is clear and provides a pleasant, deep extension. It has the ability to reach low frequencies, giving tracks—especially electronic and hip-hop genres—a pleasing rumble that gives them depth. Although it is not the strongest, the sub bass provides a strong foundation without overpowering other frequencies, making it suitable for most listening situations.

Bass

The DUDU takes a more subdued approach to bass overall. Its neutral tone is maintained by not emphasizing the bass too much. Those who love a more prominent bass presence may find this to be a disadvantage. The bass does exist, but it’s clear and well-controlled, preventing any muddiness that occasionally impacts more bass-heavy IEMs.

Mid Bass

If the sub bass feels recessed, then the mid bass of the DUDU is far less prominent. Punch and force are a little lacking, which is particularly apparent in bass guitars and percussion instruments. The sound is a little bit dry and lifeless due to this modest recession in the mid-bass region, but the great advantage is that the mids and highs are crystal clear because the bass hasn’t infiltrated other frequencies.

Overall, clarity and control over sheer power best describe the TinHiFi DUDU’s bass performance. It is an excellent option for people who value accuracy and detail over bass dominance because it is made to blend in with the overall neutral and natural sound character.

Mids

Lower Mids

The TinHiFi DUDU has very natural, colorless lower mids. Pianos and guitars have a genuine sound; however, they are a little lifeless and need some warmth. A small dip helps keep things clear and away from becoming muddy, especially when the tracks get busy… The lower mids are crisp and simple to listen to thanks to this tuning choice.

Higher Mids

The DUDU is most noticeable in the upper mids. They are distinct and intricate, giving the music a pleasant feeling of presence. The overall captivating sound is enhanced by this focus, which makes higher-pitched instruments and female vocals stand out.

Vocals

Vocals on the DUDU are divided into two. Male voices can occasionally feel a little thin, but overall they sound nice because they stand out against the music and do not blend in. The female vocals, however, are the most notable aspect. They sound vivid and realistic and are delivered with clarity and precision. This particular tuning keeps the voice clear and distinct from other instruments, and to me it is very important…

Instruments

The instruments are depicted with a high level of detail and realism. String instruments, in particular, have a pleasing texture and presence; they are not warm but rather analytical… The distinction between instruments is quite impressive, allowing one to be heard clearly without mixing in with the others. This level of separation is due in part to the planar driver technology, which helps to keep the sound clear and layered.

In general, the mids on the TinHiFi DUDU provide a balanced and natural sound with exceptional clarity and detail, making it an excellent choice for those who value accurate vocal and instrument reproduction.

Highs

Treble

The treble on the TinHiFi DUDU is crisp and precise, producing a bright and energetic sound. The treble got plenty of sparkle, but it never felt sibilant or harsh for me… And I find it enjoyable and nonfatiguing. This ensures that the high frequencies remain pleasant even after extended listening sessions.

Upper Treble

The upper treble extends nicely, creating a sensation of air and openness in the sound. This extension helps in reproducing tiny details in music, such as the shimmer of cymbals and the subtle changes and extension in high-pitched instruments.

Air Region

The air region of the DUDU is especially noteworthy. It provides the music with a sense of depth and dimension, making the soundstage appear larger… This characteristic gives a better perception of instrument placement, and I can easily tell where each sound is coming from. The decay in this region continues smoothly into the upper range, allowing sounds to decay more slowly and naturally. This is something you are more likely to feel than hear… This really helps in providing a realistic and lasting presence for high-frequency elements.

Overall, the TinHiFi DUDU’s highs are well executed, with clarity, extension, and a sensation of air that improves overall sound.

Technicalities

Type C Cable

While the Type C connector may adequately drive the DUDU, TinHiFi recommends adding a +2dB bass boost for a more balanced performance… I find it funny, as why didn’t they do it in the first place? But.. this tweak really helps to correct the small bass shortage and provide a more balanced tone…
Actually, TinHiFi suggests creating an EQ with +2dB at 20Hz, +1dB at 200Hz, -2dB at 900Hz, and -1dB at 1kHz.

Soundstage

The TinHiFi DUDU’s soundstage is impressively expansive. It gives me a greater sensation of openness than I generally get from in-ear monitors, especially in this price range… The wide soundstage offers a very immersive environment, allowing instruments and vocals to feel well-spaced and positioned across the large stage.

Imaging

The imaging on the DUDU is quite accurate and precise. I can quickly identify where different elements are positioned within the soundstage, which improves my overall spatial awareness. This precision gives each sound its own spot, increasing the sound’s realism.

Layering

Layering is one of the DUDU’s most notable characteristics. Its planar driver provides superb separation between different layers of sound. I can hear complex musical parts without them ever becoming mixed together.

Separation

The DUDU also boasts impressive separation. Each aspect of the music feels distinct and doesn’t blend into the others. This separation allows me to easily distinguish between instruments and vocalists. Overall, the DUDU’s ability to preserve clarity and separation makes it perfect for analytical listening.

Sound Performance Conclusions

The TinHiFi DUDU impresses with its natural and detailed timbre, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate clarity and resolution. Its bass performance, while featuring deep sub-bass, is somewhat light overall, and even TinHiFi suggests adding a +2dB bass boost via the Type C cable to achieve a more balanced sound… 
The mids are detailed with excellent female vocal performance, though male vocals may come across as thin… The treble is bright and well-extended, with a nice air region that allows for longer decay and a more breathable treble. The technicalities are impressive; the soundstage is notably wide, with good imaging, separation, and layering. 
Overall, the DUDU delivers a satisfying experience, especially for those who enjoy detailed, treble-focused sound profiles.

Comparison with the TinHiFi P1 Max II

Why would I compare a 79$ IEM to a 129$…?

I decided to compare the TinHiFi DUDU with the P1 Max II even though the earlier released one is nearly twice the price… And its because both were released around the same time and feature planar magnetic drivers, and while the P1 Max II brings superior build quality and a better cable, I believe the DUDU offers a more compelling overall package… The DUDU’s tuning is more natural and balanced, with a timbre that sounds closer to dynamic drivers, which I find to be very good tuned. It also excels in technical aspects like soundstage and detail retrieval… For those who prioritize a natural timbre and great technicalities in their IEMs, I really thing that the DUDU represents a better value, despite the P1 Max II’s higher placement and enhanced build quality…

Sound Signature

The TinHiFi DUDU and the P1 Max II cater to different preferences in sound signature… While the DUDU has a neutral, balanced sound with a slight emphasis on clarity and natural timbre, the P1 Max II presents a more lively “V”-shaped signature with accentuated bass and treble. The P1 Max II’s emphasis on bass impact and treble sparkle makes it more engaging for genres like electronic music, whereas the DUDU provides a more subdued and accurate representation, ideal for a broad range of genres, especially classic…

Build and Comfort

The DUDU features metal shells, which offer a different aesthetic and durability compared to the resin construction of the P1 Max II… Despite the DUDU metal shells, the design is more comfortable for me because it is slightly smaller. Both IEMs lack modular connectors and carrying cases…, yet the DUDU is offering a secondary cable, which is a Type C with a microphone, making it more convenient and versatile overall…

Technical Performance

In terms of technical performance, both IEMs perform well but in different ways… The DUDU gives a clean and detailed sound with a wide soundstage, good imaging, and separation. At the same time the P1 Max II also is offering a good detail retrieval and imaging, but with a soundstage that is more contained and narrow… The P1 Max II’s detail is accompanied by a slightly recessed midrange and treble that can be sharp, whereas the DUDU maintains a more balanced treble and midrange performance.

Midrange and Treble

The DUDU’s midrange is clean and detailed with natural timbre, making vocals and instruments sound accurate and pleasant. In contrast, the P1 Max II has a more recessed midrange, which can impact vocal presence and lower midrange details… The treble on the P1 Max II is more pronounced and can be sharp, whereas the DUDU offers a smoother and more extended treble with a nice decay in the air range.

Overall

The TinHiFi DUDU offers a neutral and balanced sound with high comfort and good technical performance, making it a solid choice for those who value accuracy and natural timbre. And in the other hand is the P1 Max II, which offers a vibrant sound signature with engaging bass and treble. This one is well-suited for listeners who enjoy a more energetic and pronounced sound.

Both IEMs have their strengths and cater to different listening preferences and needs.

Conclusions

So…, I really believe the DUDU is a solid choice for anyone who likes natural timbre and balanced sound. Its planar magnetic driver offers quite great technical performance, with very good details, a wide soundstage, and accurate imaging. I feel that the timbre is quite accurate, and I have never felt it being too bright or clinical, unlike some brighter-sounding IEMs I’ve had the chance to listen to…

However… There are still some drawbacks… The bass impact for example… While there, is pretty light and might feel lacking if you’re a basshead… This results in a thinner bass profile, which might not be ideal for genres or songs that heavily rely on pure bass quantity. Also, while the cables are well-made, they’re extremely thin and seem fragile… Another downside is the lack of a carrying case, which can be a bummer for those who rely on the included case for convenience and portability.

Despite these drawbacks, I still think the DUDU is offering a lot of great things, such as, overall build quality, natural sound and technical capabilities. And for a budget planar IEM it excels at producing clear and detailed sound with excellent performance overall.

So, all things considered, I feel that I can confidently recommend the TinHiFi DUDU to anyone looking for a planar IEM with a neutral, technical, and realistic sound.

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Where to buy: TinHiFi Official site

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