MOONDROP Kadenz Review – Love At First Sight
MOONDROP’s K-Series not only established a benchmark for dynamic driver IEMs by leveraging the latest materials and technology, but it also made repeated breakthroughs in dynamic driver performance. As the last release of the K series, Kadenz utilizes a ULT-Gen2 patented super-linear dynamic driver that delivers significant improvements gained through the design of earlier models and incorporates a brand-new experimental TAC diamond-coated dome composite diaphragm.
Unlike previous models, Kadenz ships with the ECHO-B online interactive DSP USB-C decoding cable to achieve a DSP tuning function.
The Kadenz adopts the latest-generation 10mm patented ultra-linear dynamic driver unit featuring a TAC Diamond-Coated Dome Composite diaphragm. Experienced engineers at Moondrop have tuned the Kadenz following their famous VDSF Target response curve ensuring a clean and crisp sound presentation.
Moondrop has remodeled the internal acoustic cavity structure using FEA Simulation technology. The pair also has a swappable nozzle design with three sets of nozzles. Moondrop Kadenz brings a new level of performance, greatly enhancing your portable music listening experience.
Moondrop Kadenz comes equipped with a 10mm ULT Gen2 patented super-linear dynamic driver. The driver adopts TAC Diamond-Coated Dome Composite diaphragm material. It features a newly developed irregular magnetic circuit designed using FEA finite element simulation and topology optimizations.
Kadenz has a unique dome-shaped vent that suppresses high-frequency resonance waves and ensures a clean and extended sound response with ultra-low distortion in the output signal. With an integrated brass internal cavity and external waveguide design, the pair promises crisp and defined sound response across a wide frequency band.
To produce an enhanced sound presentation, Moondrop has adjusted and verified the internal acoustic cavity structure using 3D printing tests, FEA Simulation technology, and directional simulations. Moondrop has carefully designed the optimized internal cavity structure for a smooth and balanced sound reproduction with low distortion characteristics.
Each user has a differently shaped ear canal, which affects the ultra-high frequency response of the IEMs. Moondrop Kadenz comes with three sets of swappable nozzles each having different physical specifications. Users can select the nozzle that matches their ear canal coupling, ensuring a high-quality audio listening experience for everyone.
Moondrop Kadenz is equipped with a brand new third-generation patented anti-dust filer. It greatly reduces oily earwax buildup and protects the driver and internal cavity structure from dust particles as well.
Moondrop Kadenz packs outstanding build quality with ergonomically shaped ear shells. The shells are cast using the MIM Powder Metallurgy process that allows for the unique irregular shape of the pair while preserving high rigidity. After hand-polishing the outer shell, the pair undergoes high-purpose sandblasting treatment for clear edges and a rich, premium matte finish.
Moondrop Kadenz includes a high-purity single-crystal copper silver-plated cable. The cable has 0.78mm 2-pin connectors and a balanced 4.4mm plug. We also have a 4.4mm female to 3.5mm male adapter of the same material cable in the package.
Moondrop bundles a high-performance 32-bit USB DAC with the Kadenz. Known as ECHO-B, it is a fully balanced DAC with a 4.4mm female to USB Type-C configuration. It supports 32-bit/384kHz PCM audio signal processing.
Unboxing
- Kadenz * 1
- Eartips * 6 pairs
- 4.4mm cable * 1
- 4.4mm to Type-C adapter * 1
- 4.4mm to 3.5mm adapter * 1
- Nozzles * 3 pairs
- Storage bag * 1
- User manual * 1
- Brand card * 1
Features
- Flagship Single Dynamic Driver IEMs.
- High-Performance 10mm Dynamic Driver Unit.
- TAC Diamond-Coated Dome Composite Diaphragm.
- Second-generation patented Super-Linear Dynamic Driver.
- Optimum Acoustic Cavity Design With Remodeled Internal Cavity Structure.
- Swappable Tuning Nozzles(Three Nozzles in the Package).
- Third-generation patented Anti-Dust Acoustic Filter.
- Tuned Following the VDSF Target Response Curve.
- Classy Design with Rich Three-Dimensional Lightning Effect.
- Hand-Polished Stainless Steel Shells.
- Universal 0.78mm 2-Pin Connectors.
- High-quality single-crystal Copper Silver-Plated Cable.
- High-Res 4.4mm Balanced USB Type-C ECHO-B Connector Cable with 32-bit Audio Signal Processing.
- Online Interactive DSP with Echo-B Cable.
Technical Specs
- Impedance: 35Ω±15%.
- Sensitivity: 122dB.
- Frequency Response Range: 8Hz~21kHz.
- THD+N: ≤0.03%.
- Connectors: 0.78mm 2-Pin.
- Price: $189.99
I would like to thank Shenzhenaudio for providing me with the review sample of the Moondrop Kadenz IEM.
Sound
The Moondrop Kadenz comes with a tuning that fairly offers a neutral sound with subtle boosts to the bass and treble. Its exceptional resolution sets it apart, with each instrument and vocal occupying its own space.
Kadenz is an efficient earphone and doesn’t require any extra amplification. However, it does reward you when you give it a high-quality source. I used SMSL’s new AK4499EX-powered DO300EX DAC/AMP as a source connected to my PC.
Lows
The bass of the Moondrop Kadenz hits deep with good presence and weight. The bass drum hits aren’t exaggerated like in more V-shaped IEMs, however, its bass emphasis gives it a very satisfying, thick, and warm tonality.
I never found the bass quantity lacking. The amount of rumble and impact should be enough for most non-bass heads. Bass hits are textured and well-articulated. Different bass hits do not come off as a bloated mess and are played back with good control.
The warmth introduced into the overall tonality gives bass guitars and deep horn instruments a larger-than-life sense of authority that gives jazz tracks a “wow” factor. This warm tonality on the lower end bleeds into the lower mids at times but is still well-controlled for the most part.
In terms of bass quality, the texture is excellent and the body is full, providing a satisfying and engaging experience. The bass attacks are clean and well-defined. the bass is balanced and doesn’t overpower the other frequencies.
Mids
The Moondrop Kadenz mids are decently articulated with decent resolution. The lower mids have a very bodied presentation in no small part to the warmer tonality on the low end. This gives male vocals good rumble and authority, whilst being able to playback vocal techniques with good texture and resolution.
Piano keys and acoustic guitars are less forward than the rest of the mids, however, they still maintain a good sense of resolution. They are never drowned out; they are merely less audible when compared to the rest of the sounds in the frequency response.
The upper mids are presented with good air and resolution. Percussive wind instruments were played back with good articulation, and female vocals were presented with very good energy and contributed to a very exciting sound signature.
Male vocals sound rich and warm but are still clear and articulate. Female vocals sound natural and vibrant but never shouty or sibilant. The midrange overall is very detailed, textured, and immersive. Each instrument and vocal is distinct and well-defined, with no muddiness or congestion even in complex tracks. The Moondrop Kadenz’s midrange strikes a balance between neutrality and warmth that makes it both expressive and easygoing.
Highs
The treble region of the Moondrop Kadenz is very airy and energetic. Cymbals and percussive wind instruments are presented with good energy; however, I did observe sibilance in some cases though it did not reach the point of being a deal breaker.
Individual cymbal strikes were played back with good detail, making different cymbal strikes and types easily distinguishable from each other. This overall energy added by this treble tonality contributes to an engaging and impressive listening experience.
The Moondrop Kadenz’s treble imparts an airy and spacious character to the music, lending it an open and precise quality. NS10’s treble is a standout feature, delivering ample detail and clarity.
Technicalities
The Moondrop Kadenz’s instrument separation and imaging are top-notch, producing a perfectly defined soundstage where each element’s position and distance are perceptible to the listener.
Its forward stage positioning thrusts the listener into the heart of the music, creating an immersive experience. While the width and depth of the soundstage are impressive, it’s the height of the image that truly dazzles, adding extra dimensionality to the listening experience.
ECHO-B DSP/DAC
Normally an IEM review would end here, but that’s not the case with Kadenz, on the contrary, it gets more interesting thanks to the included ECHO-B DSP cable extension/dongle DAC. Let’s see.
For those who are lazy, there are 5 sound presets in the Moondrop Link App, for those who are into more serious stuff there is a 6-Band PEQ section. You can read how to use this feature App in my Free DSP cable review because it shares the same functionality with the ECHO-B.
As you can see there are sound profiles for every taste which gives the Kadenz extreme richness being the ultimate all-round IEM for the masses.
Sum-Up
For $189.99 this is an incredible package. Even without the additional accessories, the price would justify itself just for the IEMs. But I liked Moondrop’s solution ideas. Giving a 4.4mm cable as stock and adding a rare can-be-found 4.4mm to 3.5mm adapter for those who need it. The ECHO-B is another dimension on its own. Oh, and the addition of my all-time favorite ear tips the Springs. The Moondrop Kadenz is hard to pass, as a package it’s the IEM of the year in my book.