PROS:
Lightweight and gorgeous built
Warm-balanced sound
Generous inclusions with excellent quality
Lush, rich, and natural midrange
Probably the most natural-sounding pure BA set
Relaxed tuning for sensitive folks
Modular cable
2 tuning modes (default and atmospheric immersion)
Staggering and grandiose imaging
Striking sound stage
Comfort and wear
An effective and efficient musician’s tool (after all SA6 belongs to Dunu’s STUDIO series)
CONS:
Instrument separation
Treble heads might yearn for more energy on top
INTRODUCTION:
Dunu is a brand that has captured my attention since the beginning of this year. Let me provide you with a brief introduction. Dunu strives to innovate for music lovers, aiming to be at the forefront of audio technology by creating premium, high-resolution audio products for discerning audio enthusiasts. With a rich history dating back to 1994, Dunu initially specialized in ODM/OEM services for prominent audio and telecommunication companies. However, in 2006, they took a leap forward and established their own brand.
Among their impressive lineup, the SA6 series is a model that has always been on my radar. Specifically, I will be focusing on the SA6 MK2 model for this review. It's worth mentioning that I haven't had prior experience with the OG or Ultra models, providing a fresh perspective for this evaluation. So, did the SA6 MK2 live up to my expectations and fulfill my long-held dream? Without further delay, let's dive into the details and find out.
FOREWORD:
SPECIFICATIONS:
Brand: Dunu
Model: SA6 MK2
Weight: 5.3g per earpiece (without tips)
FR Response: 5hz - 40khz
Impedance: 24 ohms @ 1khz
Sensitivity: 114db
Driver Configuration:
PACKAGING:
The outer packaging of the SA6 MK2 boasts a striking orange color, catching the eye right from the start.
Sliding open the packaging reveals a sleek black box, which instantly piques curiosity. With a simple pop-up mechanism, the box unveils the contents inside. Let me provide you with a detailed list of what's included:
Let’s explore the inclusion a little deeper as some of these are worth noting.
CARRYING CASE:
The SA6 MK2 comes with an eye-catching case that features a striking color combination. The border showcases a vibrant mustard color, complemented by an overall dark green presentation.
The Dunu logo is tastefully embedded on the case, adding to its aesthetic appeal. However, the thickness of the case deviates from the conventional design, making it a bit bulky and inconvenient to fit into smaller bags or sling bags that I typically use for light travel. On the inside, the case is lined with a soft cloth material that provides excellent protection against scratches, ensuring the safety of your cherished IEMs. One minor concern I have is that the case doesn't feature a magnetic closure, relying solely on clamping force. Over time, I worry that the clamping force may weaken, potentially leading to accidental opening of the case. It would be unfortunate if the case were to open unexpectedly, jeopardizing the security of the IEMs inside. Despite this concern, the material used for the case is of exceptional quality, exuding a premium look and feel.
CABLE:
Dunu has gone the extra mile by including their latest cable, the Hulk Pro Mini, as the official cable for the SA6 MK2. This cable can also be purchased separately for $200. The cable is crafted using highly refined Furukawa single-crystal copper, boasting a 26 AWG thickness. Rather than delving into its intricate details, I'll let you explore the clickable link provided above to discover more about its impressive specifications. I must emphasize that the cable feels and looks premium. It strikes the right balance in terms of thickness, and its soft and non-stiff nature adds to the overall comfort. This is a refreshing change compared to the stiff cable I encountered with my recent review of the UM Mest MK2, which required significant adjustment.
Now, let's talk about its modularity. Yes, you heard it right! The SA6 MK2's cable is modular, offering both a 3.5mm and 4.4mm termination (unfortunately, no 2.5mm option here) to cater to your single-ended and balanced connection needs. This versatility suits my requirements perfectly. The plug system utilized is Dunu's acclaimed and patented Q-lock Plus interchangeable design. Inside the packaging, you'll find a piece of paper providing instructions on how to change the plugs, but rest assured, the process is straightforward.
Just make sure to align the white dots, and you're ready to go. The L-shaped plug adds convenience for phone gamers, ensuring a comfortable fit that doesn't obstruct your hands. The plug sits securely without any wobbly feeling, although it's always wise to handle it with care to prolong its lifespan.
EARTIPS:
The SA6 MK2 doesn't skimp on the variety of tips provided, as you'll find a total of four different kinds in the package. It's worth noting that Dunu opted not to include third-party tips and instead included their own premium offerings: the S&S tips and Candy tips. The S&S tips, which I believe stands for "stage and studio," were originally included with the Dunu Talos, while the Candy tips were included with the Dunu Kima. On the other hand, the gray tips were included with the Titan S, although personally, I didn't find them to be to my liking. For the duration of this review, I opted for the S&S tips, which proved to be my preferred choice. As for the foam tips, they seem rather generic, but it's still commendable that Dunu included a pair, showing their thoughtfulness towards the users' preferences and comfort.
SA6 MK2’s APPEARANCE:
The SA6 MK2 boasts an undeniably pleasing and eye-catching design. Its faceplate is crafted from high-grade stabilized wood, exuding a sense of elegance and sophistication.
The shell, on the other hand, is meticulously hand-poured using German nice-fit UV acrylic resin. Each SA6 MK2 is a unique piece of art, as no two units are exactly alike. The transparent base plate allows a glimpse into the internal components, showcasing Dunu's transparency and commitment to delivering quality products.
Unlike some other brands that conceal their internals, Dunu takes pride in revealing the inner workings of the SA6 MK2. With the aid of a lamp or direct light, one can even discern the presence of the three-way crossover.
Additionally, the SA6 MK2 features a single tuning switch, which personally aligns with my preference. Unlike the trend of multiple tuning switches found in some IEMs, I find this approach more focused and purposeful, ensuring a well-tuned sound signature without unnecessary complexity.
COMFORT:
The SA6 MK2 stands as a strong contender for the title of the most comfortable IEM I have encountered in my extensive review and testing journey. Its comfort level is on par with other highly regarded models such as the Hisenior T2 Classic, TinHiFi T3 Plus, and even the Mest MK3.
Despite the medium-sized shells, the SA6 MK2's lightweight construction ensures a near-invisible presence when worn. Even individuals with smaller ears shouldn't face any discomfort issues. Achieving an optimal seal with the SA6 MK2 is relatively straightforward, although the choice of ear tips plays a crucial role in this regard. Additionally, the nozzle angle is neither unconventional nor obtrusive, further contributing to a comfortable listening experience.
INTERNALS:
The SA6 MK2 adopts a pure BA (balanced armature) configuration, which traditionally tends to exhibit what is commonly referred to as BA timbre, characterized by a thin and somewhat unnatural sound. However, to my pleasant surprise, the SA6 MK2 demonstrates an impressive ability to minimize BA timbre, with its presence being almost non-existent, amounting to a mere 2%. This is undoubtedly a positive indication of its sound quality. The bass response is handled by two Sonion Acupass vented dual woofer BA drivers, while the midrange is expertly managed by two custom Knowles drivers. Additionally, the treble is skillfully delivered by two Knowles custom dual tweeters. To ensure seamless integration and coherence across the frequency spectrum, the SA6 MK2 incorporates a three-way crossover system.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS:
The SA6 MK2 was meticulously paired with a range of top-notch audio equipment, including the Hiby RS2 dap, Centrance DacportHD, Ovidius B1, and Fiio K9. To ensure consistency, I used the stock S&S tips and the Hulk Mini Pro cable throughout the testing process. My listening sessions encompassed a variety of sources, including offline FLAC files, Apple Music, and Qobuz studio subscription.
Now, let's delve into the captivating technical aspects of the SA6 MK2!
One aspect that didn't astound me but still impressed me nonetheless was the soundstage. While not as expansive as the Mest MK3, which has spoiled me with its exceptional width and holographic presentation, the SA6 MK2 still offers a commendable sense of space and dimension. The height and depth of the stage create a satisfactory listening experience that draws you into the music.
The imaging capabilities of the SA6 MK2 are absolutely outstanding. It flawlessly positions each instrument and sound element within the soundstage, allowing for a highly accurate and immersive representation. Whether it's the drums rolling around your head, the trumpet of Miles Davis emanating from the far right, or the guitars lurking in the background, the SA6 MK2 effortlessly recreates the spatial intricacies of the music, making the listening experience truly captivating.
When it comes to speed, the SA6 MK2 holds its own. While there are certainly other IEMs with more lightning-fast and agile drivers, the SA6 MK2 strikes a delicate balance. It confidently handles complex and dynamic tracks, effortlessly capturing the bombastic drum solos or intricate instrumentals without any signs of strain or muddiness. The SA6 MK2 prioritizes realism and accuracy, offering a faithful representation of the attack and decay of each note. The result is a highly engaging and lifelike musical experience.
What sets the SA6 MK2 apart is its ability to present music as a cohesive and unified whole. Rather than focusing on individual separation, the SA6 MK2 shines in creating a harmonious blend of all the sonic elements. While some listeners may prefer a more analytical and dissected sound signature, the SA6 MK2's strength lies in its ability to convey the musicality and emotion of a composition, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the artistry.
The level of detail retrieval exhibited by the SA6 MK2 is commendable. It excels in capturing both micro nuances and macro details, bringing subtle textures and intricacies to the forefront of the soundstage. While the presentation may not be as overtly emphasized or hyper-detailed, it strikes a balance between capturing the essence of the music and being analytical. The SA6 MK2's smooth and refined approach to detailing makes it an excellent choice for extended listening sessions without sacrificing the overall musicality.
One of the most impressive aspects of the SA6 MK2 is its impeccable timbre. Each instrument and sound is rendered with astonishing realism, closely resembling the rich and organic characteristics of a dynamic driver (DD) setup. The SA6 MK2 achieves this feat by nearly eliminating BA timbre, ensuring that every note and tone feels incredibly natural and true to life. It surpasses even some of my beloved pure BA sets, such as the Audiosense DT300 and Seeaudio Bravery Red edition, in terms of authenticity and accuracy.
In terms of source pairings, the SA6 MK2 showcases remarkable versatility. It delivers stellar performance with various chipsets, ranging from ESS for a touch of sparkle and energy to R2R setups like my Hiby RS2 for a smoother and more refined sound. However, the SA6 MK2 truly shines when paired with AKM chipsets, striking an exquisite balance between detail retrieval, treble sparkle, and a natural sound signature. This synergy creates a captivating listening experience that caters to a wide range of musical genres and preferences.
Overall, the SA6 MK2 impresses with its intricate technicalities, captivating soundstage, accurate imaging, commendable speed, balanced detailing, and lifelike timbre. It is a versatile performer that excels in presenting music as a cohesive and enjoyable whole, enveloping you in its captivating sonic landscape.
BASS:
The bass performance of the SA6 MK2 is reminiscent of the remarkable bass of the Mest MK3, a true flagship in its own right. It exhibits a natural attack and a slightly more gentle approach to note definition, prioritizing realism and authenticity over sheer resolution. It's important to note that the bass of the SA6 MK2 should not be mistaken for being overly soft or muddy; it maintains a commendable level of punch and tightness. The sub bass is rendered with great clarity, though it doesn't reach the level of seismic impact. It dissipates quickly, ensuring a clean and controlled reproduction. On the other hand, the mid bass takes center stage, delivering a forward and textured performance that will satisfy fans of bass guitars and drum kicks.
What's impressive about the bass of the SA6 MK2 is its versatility. When listening to EDM, it provides an engaging and well-controlled bass that never oversteps its boundaries and disrupts other frequencies. Even tracks with less pronounced bass mixing, such as those from Bobby Caldwell, Stevie Wonder, and Alan Parsons Project, maintain a close-to-neutral presentation that avoids sounding sterile or uninteresting. Ultimately, the bass of the SA6 MK2 strikes a harmonious balance, appealing to listeners across the spectrum, whether they prefer a neutral sound, crave deep bass impact, or simply seek a pleasing audio experience.
Graph courtesy and credit to Timmy of Gizaudio
As a bonus feature, the SA6 MK2 includes a switch that allows for bass boosts. Referred to by Dunu as "atmospheric immersion," it's essentially a bass boost function. For the bassheads among us, this feature provides an opportunity to satisfy your cravings and enhance the low-end impact according to your preferences.
MIDRANGE:
The true essence of the SA6 MK2 lies within its exceptional midrange performance. Without a doubt, it caters to the preferences of midrange enthusiasts and fulfills their dreams of an outstanding set. The magic it works on orchestral tracks, whether it's the compositions of Vivaldi or the masterpieces of Joe Hisaishi, is truly remarkable. If classical music holds a special place in your heart, the SA6 MK2 is a must-have. Personally, I find myself constantly gravitating towards my favorite orchestral pieces whenever I have these IEMs in my ears.
Moreover, the SA6 MK2 does justice to jazz tracks by legendary artists like Miles Davis, John Coltrane, David Sanborn, Lee Ritenour, and Bill Evans. The timbre of pianos, which happens to be my primary instrument, sounds sublime and ethereal through these IEMs. The same can be said for guitars, electric EPs, marimbas, kalimbas, organs, and various other instruments. It's worth noting that the SA6 MK2 has finally replaced my previous go-to set, the Bqeyz KC2, in terms of its exceptional midrange performance.
When it comes to vocals, they deserve their fair share of praise and enjoyment alongside the instruments. The low-end vocal ranges, from the deep and velvety tones of Barry White to the soaring falsettos of Earth, Wind, and Fire, are executed with finesse and precision. The contralto and soprano ranges are equally delightful, although this discussion touches upon the trebles, which we'll address shortly. For now, I must emphasize the ultimate praise I have for the contraltos in female vocals.
If you've read my review of the UM Mest MK3, you may recall my nitpicks regarding its midrange performance. The SA6 MK2, on the other hand, delivers a midrange that is to die for, at least according to my subjective perception. Its midrange prowess has exceeded my expectations and solidifies its position as an extraordinary set.
TREBLE:
Sensitive individuals will find solace in the SA6 MK2's treble performance. It maintains a safe distance from sibilant territory while still delivering commendable details and clarity. Even in my favorite sibilance test track, "A Long Way to the Top" by AC/DC”, the bagpipes solo sounded smooth and devoid of any harshness. Although cymbals and hi-hats may appear slightly subdued, overall treble reproduction remains pleasing. It's worth noting that if you have a preference for EST drivers and brighter tunings, you may find the treble presentation of the SA6 MK2 to be too restrained.
Non-musical nuances like the breaths of a cellist or the subtle lip smacks of vocalists before starting a line are still preserved, albeit slightly less pronounced. Treble enthusiasts may desire more edge and bite, but on the upside, listening to the SA6 MK2 allows for extended sessions without experiencing ear fatigue. Achieving additional sparkle is possible with neutral-bright sources, typically found in ESS chipsets. The essential characteristic of the SA6 MK2's treble lies in its balanced approach, striking a harmonious blend of relaxation and smoothness without compromising on details and clarity.
It's worth mentioning that soprano vocals that venture into the treble territory may feel slightly laid-back, lacking a touch of openness. If your playlist predominantly consists of such vocal ranges, I wouldn't discourage you from exploring the SA6 MK2. Instead, I suggest approaching it with an open mindset. Some instruments that left a lasting impression on me in terms of treble performance were the brass sections and cymbal strikes. As someone who can be sensitive to treble, I find the treble presentation of the SA6 MK2 to be perfect when I'm in the groove for guilty listening pleasure rather than being critical or analytical. The treble is also perfect when I want to boost that volume a few notches.
COMPARISONS:
versus Hidizs MS5:
The MS5 showcases a wider soundstage and offers a slight advantage in note definition and attack compared to the SA6 MK2. It presents a more aggressive and energetic sound signature. However, where the MS5 falls short is in its timbre, particularly in the upper mids, which can be fatiguing to the ears. On the other hand, the SA6 MK2 excels in delivering accurate and natural timbre, which sets it apart.
In terms of imaging, the MS5 outshines the SA6 MK2, even offering a holographic presentation that adds a sense of depth and dimensionality. This is an area where the SA6 MK2 lags behind slightly.
To summarize, while the MS5 may have a slight technical advantage in certain aspects, such as soundstage and imaging, the SA6 MK2 takes the lead with its superior timbre accuracy and natural sound reproduction. Although I appreciate technical prowess, my personal preference leans towards a tuning that prioritizes realism. Therefore, if you read between the lines, it's clear which one I would choose between these two.
versus Softears Studio 4:
These two IEMs are in a close competition, offering similar price, performance, and timbre characteristics. I must admit that choosing one over the other would be a difficult decision for me, as they both have their own unique strengths.
Both the Studio 4 and SA6 MK2 exhibit warm-balanced tonal signatures, with the Studio 4 leaning slightly warmer. They both showcase a relaxed attack and note definition, but the Studio 4 has an added depth in soundstage that the SA6 MK2 lacks. In terms of meeting my needs as a musician, both IEMs have performed exceptionally well. However, the SA6 MK2 offers a more colored and engaging sound profile, making it a standout choice for versatility in both professional usage and casual music appreciation.
From a musician's standpoint, the Studio 4 may seem like the logical choice due to its closer proximity to neutrality. However, when considering overall versatility, the SA6 MK2 emerges as the superior all-rounder. Both IEMs exhibit comparable technical prowess, and their prices are closely aligned. They are the only pure BA configured IEMs I have tried that deliver astonishingly natural, musical, and organic sound reproduction.
To be honest, either of these two IEMs would make me a happy camper and fulfill my midrange benchmark requirements for a long time to come.
TEST TRACKS
Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:
That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks
And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.
VERDICT:
After eagerly awaiting the chance to experience the SA6 lineup, the SA6 MK2 has fulfilled my expectations, albeit with some minor reservations. While its technical performance falls just short of greatness, it still surpasses other IEMs in the $200-$300 range. However, the true allure of the SA6 MK2 lies in its extraordinary midrange. Its lush, rich, and captivating presentation makes it a standout choice for vocal and instrumental enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate classical music and jazz. Although it may not excel in all technical aspects, it remains a versatile all-rounder that can handle any genre admirably. As a musician and amateur audiophile, I am convinced that the SA6 MK2 deserves a place in my collection.
I would like to express my gratitude to Hifigo and Neil Nino Clark for their generosity in providing me with the opportunity to audition and review the SA6 MK2. Their patience and support are greatly appreciated.
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