Wired IEMs are dead. Not so fast. Wireless earbuds might be all the rage with mainstream consumers, but high-end wired IEMs are still selling rather well in a number of markets. Why? Sound quality. Wireless earbuds can’t deliver the level of sound quality that one can create with products like the Moondrop Blessing 3.
There are a number of unique design features that makes these $319 USD IEMs peak our interest.
Moondrop’s driver configuration for the Blessing 3 is based on their H.O.D.D.U.S. (Horizontally Opossesd 2 DD Module) system; the Blessing 3 features two dynamic drivers (10 mm) for the low end, and four balanced armatures to handle the treble and midrange (two each).
The 3D printed sound chamber has the added benefit of reducing vibration and unwanted distortion which can negatively impact the IEM’s performance.
Aside from the 3D printing, two distinct filter-passing components allow for more precise alignment and the ability to fine tune the overall tonal balance and presentation.
The two dynamic drivers double the sound pressure, creating better controlled low end response with more impact. The hybrid Blessing 3 offers better definition and detail as a result in a region that can become muddied when the drivers are unable to control the bass information.
The symmetrical H.O.D.D.U.S. arrangement focuses the magnetic field at the magnetic gap of the two dynamic drivers, mirroring what a planar magnetic driver would do. The result is improved efficiency, and a reduction of nonlinear distortion for a more precise low end signature. A Dongle DAC will work wonders with these IEMs.
Further technology provides the drivers with a flexible suspension diaphragm including a paper dome to ensure additional resonance is not passed along to the balanced armatures. Moondrop aimed for a more accurate sounding tonal balance with the Blessing 3 and we plan on putting that to the test with our review sample.
The 3D printing allowed for quick design adjustments to occur, helping keep R&D costs down. Once the desired filtering (and chamber design) structures were found; easy replication allowed for quick production, and accuracy.
The stainless steel faceplate continues Moondrop’s eye-catching design, and hand polishing continues their personal touch as well.
Coming with a 2-pin (0.78mm) cable, the ability to switch cables or to a Bluetooth module affords the user many options with which to fine tune the Blessing 3 even more.
Features
- Impedance: 14.8Ω ±15% (@1kHz)
- Frequency Response: 10Hz-30kHz
- Effective Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz (IEC60318-4, -3dB)
- Sensitivity: 120dB/Vrms(@1kHz)
- THD: 1kHz ≤0.5%
- Driver: 2DD+4BA
- Jack: 3.5mm single-ended jack
- Housing processing: 3D printing of imported medical resin
- Headphone Jack: 0.78-2pin
Price & Availability
The Moondrop Blessing 3 IEM is available for $319 at Amazon.
For more information: moondroplab.com
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