Introduction
Moondrop shouldn’t be introduced anymore. They are so well established in the Chi-Fi audio scene arguably internationally as well. Aria 2 has been officially launched which means that the Aria series has seen at least 5 iterations! Granted, before you raise an eyebrow, the latest Aria has been externally upgraded with a newer look while internally revamped with a new TiN ceramic composite driver. Why don’t you take a short read on the review of this 89 USD single dynamic driver monitor. Maybe there’s a surprise awaiting.
Packaging & Accessories
Aria 2 has a small rectangular packaging accompanied by an anime girl with a violin instrument on the front of the box. Inside, there is a QC card, a beautiful brown and round leather case, and the IEM itself. The IEM shell has a gorgeous looking silver colour and dot pattern on it. The build is extremely solid, perhaps even quite heavy and is made of zinc alloy integrated with openable brass nozzle system for filter replacement. Subjectively, Aria 2 is simply one of the best-looking IEM to my eyes. Continuing with the packaging, it also came with stock eartips although unfortunately lacking in variations and sizes. I also had difficulties fitting the eartips into the IEM because of the unmatched bore size with the IEM. However, the cable is stellar and supple that is modular and came together with 4.4mm plug.
Specifications
- Sensitivity: 122 dB/Vrms (@1 kHz)
- Impedance: 33 Ω ± 15% (@1 kHz)
- Frequency Response Range: 16 Hz – 22 kHz (IEC61094, Free Field)
- Effective Frequency Response Range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (IEC60318-4, -3 dB)
- Earphone Jack: 0.78mm (2-pin)
- THD+N: THD ≤ 0.05% (@1 kHz)
- Cavity Material: Zinc Alloy Cavity + Brass Nozzle
- Plug: 3.5mm single ended + 4.4mm modular jack
Retail Price & Where to Get
Thank you, Redape Headphone Store, for lending us the Moondrop Aria 2 for an honest review.
Shopee Link : https://invl.io/clkewij
Lazada Link : https://invol.co/clkewiq
Source Pairing
- Android 13/ Windows 11 > DDHifi TC35B/ Questyle M12/ Topping DX3 Pro+ > Moondrop Aria 2
Test Tracks
Tonality
Just like any other Moondrop IEMs, the Aria 2 follows the VDSF target which is technically a modified Harman target. In my subjective reception, I hear a neutral but balanced sound signature. Those who are familiar with this sort of tuning may find this IEM to be repetitive for their existence. In fact, many claimed the original Aria to be “boring” and though this Aria 2 is not necessarily that, since there is a bit of contrast boost with the tuning.
Bass
One of the better performers compared to other frequencies, the bass of Aria 2 is pretty well-done with great resolution, timbre, and distinction from the midrange. It is a welcome departure from the previous Aria’s muffled and muddied bass. Subbass extension is now cleaner and more textured while mid-bass slams with more clarity while having a pleasing bass reverb (timbre). The bass is certainly not for basshead but rather on a neutral but balanced side. My only concern is that some old recordings may sound a bit lacking, for example in Rock With You by Michael Jackson. However, modern recording sounds perfectly fine in my view.
Midrange
A hint recessed but mostly neutral with normal ear gain is the characteristic of typical Moondrop choice of midrange tuning. Therefore, the Aria 2 that doesn’t depart from this sound, has a very clear midrange sound. Overall, there is no bad thing to say about the mids, the vocal is mainly good position- and quantity-wise, and I hear no shoutiness that can meddle the sound. For the price, it generally performs well enough even for a vocal lover.
Treble
Aria 2 is not an IEM for pure treble-heads because of its somewhat smooth but still crispy sounding highs, ala the Variations with better timbre although not as detailed. In my opinion, Moondrop has achieved a pretty good balance in the treble unlike the previous Aria which sounded quite sibilant and overly “sizzly”. This time the Aria 2 has more control with the treble with still good upper treble extension resulting in good microdetails offering.
Soundstage & Imaging
One of the surprising things about Aria 2 is their pretty big staging for the price that Moondrop is offering. Imaging is quite strong as well although is not at the level of 3D immersion, it lacks a little bit of depth I would say but that’s already nitpicking.
Resolution & Separation
Resolution and separation are above average. But on microdetails and nuances, I would say that it performs like a much higher priced single DD IEM like Tanchjim Oxygen which I think at this point is already obsolete in terms of technicalities per value nowadays.
Drivability & Synergy
Driving the Aria 2 is not tough at all. Any sort of source should perform well enough. Synergy-wise, any sort of sound is suitable with Aria 2.
Comparison
Moondrop Aria
The predecessor of the Aria 2, the original Aria made me realize how much the latter has been eaten by time. The audio scene has progressed so much ever since the launch of the Aria. You can find a much cheaper IEM that even surpasses the sound quality of Aria nowadays. Tonally, the latest Aria 2 still has a similar sound profile (again the VDSF tuning) except that it polishes the muffled bass and sibilance issue for better bass clarity and smoother highs. The Aria 2 now has a slightly more contrast sound as compared to the “uninspiring or boring” Aria. By current standard, technical performance gets a big jump especially in terms of details, soundstage, and separation. This is definitely due the newly integrated dynamic driver and better pressure vent technology.
For Whom?
Moondrop Aria 2 is an IEM for someone who likes natural timbre with solid technical chops at this sub 100 USD price range. The sound shall resonate with most people since this sort of tuning has already been well established in the market. This also makes Aria 2 a good choice for a newcomer audiophile with any taste in music genre.
Conclusion
Well, I could argue that people are tired of new Arias, Starfields, Chus, or whatever “bazillion” Moondrop’s recent releases. I agree that Moondrop has slightly lost their direction that previously helped pioneer their mega fan base through notable Aria, Starfield, Kato, Variations and such. The market has not been kind anymore ever since, competition is so high and perhaps has gone down to the release of any “ground-breaking” IEM in terms of value to be due just anytime soon. However, I could also argue that despite those arguments, Aria 2 is still a decent performer especially in terms of their subjective intangibles, timbre, and exquisite build and presentation. It’s just that tonality wise, the consensus is that people always want something different every time while at the same time, having their purchase to be valued and appreciated throughout the time. But I digress and yes, for me Aria 2 is still recommendable.
