DUNU DN-142 - The Way of Water

 4.5⭐️

+ Fun and impactful V-shaped tuning will keep you coming back for more

+ Big sub-bass with nice extension and rumble

+ Clean and articulate upper midrange is great for female vocals

+ Crisp and airy treble without fatigue

+ Strong technical performance, including an enveloping soundstage

+ Fantastic shell design

+ Great accessories 

+ Perfect pairing for tubes

- Other sources can sound a little too clinical

- Bass emphasis may be too much for some

- Underrepresented lower-midrange

- Treble can be a touch incisive and piercing at times

- Both the name and accessories could better adhere to the theme

- Shell and nozzle size may cause fit issues for those with small ears

thaslaya's star rating system:

☆☆☆☆☆ - Fantastic!

☆☆☆☆ - Recommended

☆☆☆ - There are buyers but not for me

☆☆ - Can't see the appeal

☆ - Product is a failure

Disclaimer: 

This product was provided to me by DUNU in exchange for my impartial and honest review. I receive no compensation, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Non-affiliated link for those interested:

https://hifigo.com/products/dunu-dn142

Gear used: 

●Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

●HiBy R3 II

●Various DAC/amps

Source:

●Listening was done using Amazon Music HD/Ultra HD and local FLAC files. 

Introduction: 

DUNU is a well-known audio brand based in China. They manufacture a wide variety of audio products, including IEMs, earbuds, cables, full-sized headphones, DAC/amps, and even hi-fi CD players. Now, I'm no stranger to DUNU's IEMs. The DaVinci, DK3001BD (BrainDance), and Kima 2 are all personal favorites. Recently, DUNU simultaneously released two new models: the DN-142 and DN-242. This review will focus on the former, but there will be references to the latter throughout the article, as well as a direct comparison later on. The 142 features a tribrid driver configuration consisting of one dynamic, four balanced armature, and two microplanar drivers. It's the cheaper of the two new sets, coming in with a price tag of $249, and is available from HiFiGO and other retailers worldwide. Let's break down the 142 to see what makes it unique and how it stacks up against the competition.

Build, fit, ergonomics:

Before we get into the unboxing and accessories, let's take a moment to talk about the lore surrounding these two new DUNU IEMs. Both the 142 and 242 are part of the company's new Delicate series. The design of the 242 takes inspiration from Nezha, a fiery deity in Chinese folklore, whereas the 142 is inspired by Ao Bing, the deity of water and ice. If Nezha represents the passion and intensity of a burning flame, then Ao Bing is the deep and turbulent sea. The 142 comes in a chunky, little, rectangular box featuring some fantastic artwork of Ao Bing on the front. The water theme is strong throughout the design of the shells. The blue resin is quite unique, and the swirls in the faceplates bring to mind the way that light reflects and refracts off the surface of water, which is a nice thematic touch. There's also a ring of silver around the faceplates that helps them stand out even more. I really appreciate that DUNU put a lot of thought into the design and didn't simply fall back on doing a black shell with a colored faceplate, as we see so often, but the name could use some work. At least 142 is simple and makes sense considering the driver configuration, but why not name it Ao Bing after the deity that inspired it? The faceplate also features the model name on the left and the company name on the right. As far as fit goes, the shells are basically the same dimensions as DUNU's DaVinci model. They're definitely on the chunkier side, and the nozzle measures 6.2mm at the widest point, just slightly smaller than the 242. This may pose fit issues for those with smaller ears, but they're comfortable enough for me to wear for extended periods. There is a single vent located just in front of the recessed 2-pin connection to alleviate pressure buildup. The cable is made of 4-core high-purity silver-plated OCC copper. It's dark brownish-gray in color and comes with both 3.5mm and 4.4mm modular terminations. The weave is a little chunky, which I like, and it feels good to the touch, but it is a little stiffer than I prefer. Honestly, it's a fine cable, but I really wish it had a thematic design to better match the shells. I would have liked to see a silver/white color and some blue hardware to better match the shells. I mostly used the stock cable during the review process but also subbed in a Lavricables Master Line V5 silver cable as well. There are a total of ten pairs of tips: four of DUNU's S&S, three of their Candy tips, and three of their orb-like tips that I really like (I'm not sure if they have a specific name). I tried all three options, but ultimately settled on using my own Eletech Baroque tips. The case is the same zipper variety that comes with other DUNU models, such as the DaVinci and ITO. Like the cable, the case is decent enough, but again, I would have really liked a more thematic inclusion to go along with the great shell design and lore behind this release. The only other accessories of note are a cleaning tool, a Velcro cable tie, and three collectible artwork cards. Overall, the quality and design of the shells are great, and the accessory package is in line with what I expect from DUNU, but a little more effort into the cable and case could have really elevated the experience to the next level.

Sound impressions:

I would describe the 142 as having a fun and exciting V-shaped tuning with a sizable sub-bass boost, decent upper midrange emphasis, and extended and airy treble. This set is not particularly hard to drive and can get to high volumes on a simple dongle, but it is interesting and worth noting that its counterpart, the 242, is actually a little easier to drive. The note weight is on the thicker and heavier side, but it comes across in a controlled and measured way. There are no ethereal or wispy notes to worry about here, which is exactly how I like it. The detail retrieval is very solid. It's not likely to challenge some of the best in its price bracket, but there's plenty of nuance and detail for my preferences. The soundstage may not be the most extended in any direction, but it's very spherical and enveloping—a standout feature for sure. The timbre is mostly natural, but the 142 does have a slightly colder tonality, so fans of a more analog style may be left wanting. Even though it's not quite my preference, I do commend the 142 for staying consistent with the icy theme. The imaging is accurate and precise side-to-side, and while the distance detection is decent, there's still room for improvement. The dynamics are quite strong. There's a well-executed level of excitement and energy that I don't often see at this price point. The separation is really dialed in, which helps to bring out the nuances of individual parts of the frequency response. Unfortunately, the layering and cohesiveness suffer a bit because of it. Overall, I believe the 142 has pretty strong technicalities, especially the spherical soundstage. It may lean slightly cold and a little more clinical-sounding than I'd like, but it competes well against its peers and is more than satisfactory for the price.

Throughout my testing, I found that the 142 isn't overly source-sensitive, but taking the time to find the right synergy was well worth the effort. First, I tried the iFi GO link Max, which makes for a decent enough pairing, though the upper mids and treble are a bit sharper than I prefer. The iFi hipdac 3 has a similar sound, but the upper mids become a little smoother with improved depth. The treble, though, is still a little too energetic and sparkly, which takes a bit of attention off the bass. The NiceHCK Octave adds more weight to the midrange and helps to lift the lower aspect of the mids slightly, but the treble quality itself takes a hit. Notes sound a little thinner, splashier, and more irritable, whereas they weren't that way with the other sources. The Questyle M18i provides the best overall performance of the sources I tried. Everything just sounds cleaner and tighter, but when paired with an already clean-sounding IEM like the 142, things can start to sound a little too sterile for me. Enter the Muse Hifi M5 Ultra; tubes are exactly what the doctor ordered for the 142, adding a level of smoothness, musicality, and a touch of warmth that absolutely elevates the tuning to another level.

●Lows - As previously mentioned, the 142 draws inspiration from the deity of water and ice, and I think this theme is reflected throughout the frequency response. The bass is a huge part of why I like this set. The elevated low end is more sub-bass oriented, with a deep extension that brings to mind the ocean's depths. The mid-bass isn't quite as prominent as I would like, but the bass's impact and slam have a visceral punch that I really enjoy. The attack is quick and precise, with a certain spring-like quality, and the bass as a whole has quite a clean overall presentation, with good resolution and texture. The decay is also on the quicker side, but I would prefer it to last a little longer to sound more natural. It's well separated from the midrange too, so there's no bleed to worry about. Personally, I prefer a bit of dirtiness in my bass, perhaps in the way of a slightly muddy texture, but the 142's is still very much enjoyable. It definitely passes the toe-tapping test, and bassy genres are just plain fun to listen to. Because it's not overwhelming or over-tuned, it also lends itself well to being an all-rounder, allowing the other frequencies space to showcase their strengths. Overall, the bass is truly a highlight of the 142's tuning, though those who are a bit bass-shy might find it to be too much.

●Mids - The tuning of the 142's midrange also plays well with the water theme. It has a clear and resolving nature that makes me think of looking into the shallow waters of a clean, pristine mountain lake. And like those waters fed from the melting mountain snow, the tonality of the vocals is on the colder side, or at least lacking the usual level of warmth that I prefer. I also find they're missing a bit of the emotional weight I look for. It's a small nitpick, but they don't quite make that soulful kind of connection that I crave. Pairing with a warmer source like tubes can certainly help add a bit more weight. Vocals have an innate intensity and a slight edge to them. Male artists have somewhat of a neutral presentation, while female vocals are pushed forward and can get on the cusp of shouty at higher volumes. The lower mids are a little recessed in comparison, leading to underrepresented lower-registered instruments. Overall, I think the midrange is tuned well and adheres to the watery theme. Fans of a clean, crisp, and detailed presentation will really dig it, but personally, I'd love to have more warmth and emotional weight.

●Highs - It's a bit harder to shoehorn in another water/ice comparison here, but for the sake of consistency, I'll try my best. I'd say that the treble has a playful and effervescent nature, like bubbles making their way to the surface of water. The clean and detailed nature of the bass and mids is certainly carried over here as well. Admittedly, it can sound a touch sharp and have a certain crisp and cold nature at times, which makes me think of icicles, but it's still enjoyable. The level of precision is impressive, and it's generally non-fatiguing as long as the volume level is kept at a reasonable level. The treble isn't the most extended, but there's plenty of air to please most, outside of the most devout trebleheads. Cymbals sound quite natural. They're not too forward and never splashy or metallic, and snares have that definitive snap and pop without taking it too far. One thing I have to commend the treble for is that its energy level is nearly a perfect match for that of the bass. Sometimes these kinds of bassy all-rounders can rely too much on the low end to carry the tuning, but DUNU found a way to bring out the treble energy while making it very complementary to the bass instead of antagonistic. Luckily, sibilance is mostly a non-issue, though it won't do any favors for already sibilant-prone tracks. There can also be instances of mild harshness at times, but again, this really depends on the volume level. Overall, I think the 142's treble is very well done. It might be a touch more energetic than I usually go for, but when taking the entire tuning into account, it really works.

Comparisons: Credit to Audio Amigo for the graphs.

● DUNU DK3001BD ($500) - This is an interesting one because both sets have very similar tribrid driver configurations, but the Brain Dance utilizes two additional microplanar drivers. Since both are DUNU products, each comes with an impressive accessory package; however, the Brain Dance includes a more premium cable and case. The shells are very similar in shape and size, but the BD has a sturdier build quality as they are ceramic-plated metal compared to the resin of the 142. Design-wise, both do a great job of catching the eye, but I admit to being partial to the cyberpunk aesthetic of the Brain Dance. As far as tuning goes, these two graph pretty similarly, but the 142 is more V-shaped while the BD is more meta-tuned with slightly less bass emphasis, a flatter midrange, and more treble presence. In the bass, the 142 has a little more quantity across the spectrum and a fuller and more robust sound thanks to the sub-bass extension. The BD's bass is better balanced with the mids and highs, and it has a slightly quicker decay and a cleaner presentation, though the mid-bass dip is a bit much for me. The midrange is quite interesting. Since the BD is more meta-tuned with a flatter response, it lends more weight to lower-registered instruments and male vocals. It also has a later pinna gain rise, which means female vocals are a little smoother and better balanced. The 142 has an earlier pinna gain rise and puts more emphasis on the upper mids, accentuating female vocals. The treble is also fascinating since these two have almost opposite peaks and valleys throughout, which means the preference depends on individual sensitivity. The BD emphasizes the presence region and mid-treble, with a sizable dip at 10 kHz and an injection of energy in the upper air. In contrast, the 142 rolls off more sharply at the start of the treble with a peak in the lower air region around 12 kHz. For me, this translates to the 142 sounding brighter and more sparkly, and the BD being crisper, airier, and more tolerable, but your mileage may vary. As far as technical performance goes, the BD is better across the board, save for dynamics. For me, this contest comes down to overall balance and midrange. The 142's V-shaped tuning may be more dynamic and fun, but the BD's meta-style tuning and balance simply work better for me as an all-rounder. Vocals are generally smoother and more balanced, and female vocals are less emphasized, which makes high-volume listening much more comfortable. I will admit I prefer the 142's bigger and bolder bass, but luckily I can just throw an impedance adapter on the BD to boost the low end. Not to mention, the BD has better technical performance and higher-quality accessories. Honestly, both IEMs are very good for what they offer, and in a poll, I wouldn't be surprised to see many prefer the 142. But I find that the BD stands tall as one of the best values you can find under $500, especially in conjunction with a tube amp and an impedance adapter.

My pick: DK3001BD 

● DUNU DN-242 ($350) - These two are definitely siblings and feature nearly the exact same tribrid driver configuration, though the 242 has one additional DD. The accessories, build quality, and shell shape and size are all basically identical, though the 142's nozzle is slightly smaller and shorter. The shell design is also nearly the same, other than the color palette, but as far as sound goes, these two are quite different. The 141 is V-shaped with a bigger bass shelf, whereas the 242 is more U-shaped with less bass and upper mids, and a flatter overall frequency response. Starting with the bass, the 142 obviously has more quantity, but it's also much more sub-bass focused with deeper extension and greater impact and weight. The 242 is a little better balanced between sub- and mid-bass, and it has a slightly slower decay, which I like, but it does lack extension and rumble. Both have a mostly clean texture and good resolution, but the 142 a bit more so. In the midrange, the 242 pushes vocals more forward, though this is likely due to the smaller bass shelf more than anything. There's also a higher level of engagement, depth, and a touch of warmth across the midrange, while the 242 sounds more recessed and relaxed in comparison. The 242's more mid-centric style of tuning demands attention and draws you in, while the 142's midrange does well to stand out from the big bass response but not quite enough to completely step out of its shadow. The treble is where things get really interesting. Both measure closely in the presence and mid-treble regions, and they have decent air and extension, but their peaks come at different points in the frequency response, which are likely to cause a division between listeners based on personal treble tolerances. To my ear, the 142 sounds a little brighter with more energy, sparkle, and clarity, while the 242's dip between the 10-12 kHz region makes it much more tolerable. This decreased treble response also allows the midrange to take more of the spotlight, yet it doesn't sound dark or dull. While neither is particularly sibilant-prone, the 142 is a little more incisive and harsh at higher volumes. The technical performance between the two is close, but I'll give the 242 the nod when it comes to detail retrieval, timbre, and layering. However, the 142's soundstage is noticeably deeper and more expansive, and it has better dynamics as well. For me, this one ultimately comes down to the bass and midrange. Obviously, these two have different tuning targets, and I can see the merit of both, but the 142's bigger and bolder bass is hard to ignore. I will say that the vocal lover in me gets along with the 242's mid-centric tuning, but I really wish there was more sub-bass. Like the deities from which they draw their inspiration, this matchup is a sort of fire versus water situation. Would you rather choose the passionate flame of the 242 or the watery depths of the 142? Only you can make that choice for yourself, but as far as I'm concerned, the 142 presents a more rounded and unique experience in the mid-fi tier. And when it comes with a lower price tag, it makes the decision that much easier.

My pick: 142

● Punch Audio Martilo ($330) - This is another matchup between two tribrids, but the Martilo utilizes a 2DD, 2BA, and 1 microplanar configuration against the 1DD, 4BA, 2 microplanar of the 142. Both sets have a decent accessory package, including a modular cable, though the Martilo's feels a little rubbery and it comes with fewer tips. Both also feature resin shells with metal nozzles, but the Martilo is a little smaller in both shell and nozzle size and has a more contoured shape. The designs of these two are quite different, and I think my preference lies with the 142's blue colorway, but the Martilo's red and black is also nice. When it comes to sound signatures, both sets have a bassy, V-shaped tuning with some variations, mostly in the bass and treble. In the low end, both sets obviously have large bass shelves, though the Martilo's is slightly bigger and more robust. The 142's bass is cleaner and more articulate, with a quicker attack and decay, more impact, and better resolution and texture. Sure, the Martilo's bass lacks a little definition, the attack doesn't hit as hard, and the impact is lessened, but the slower decay and softer, yet still present, rumble give it a relaxing quality that I really like. Admittedly, there is some bass bleed, though it doesn't really bother me. Moving to the midrange, the Martilo's bass casts a sort of veil over the mids, which might sound like a bad thing, but it really adds to my enjoyment of this set. The 142 again has a cleaner and more resolving presentation, but it's missing the level of warmth and musicality that the Martilo provides. Vocals and instruments on the Martilo have an addictive sultriness that can't be understated, but I also like the 142's forward and detailed nature at times too. In the treble, the 142 is the more sparkly, airier, and better extended of the two. Snares have more of that definitive snap I'm used to hearing, and cymbals come through more clearly too. Like its midrange, the Martilo's treble can sound a bit veiled. It rolls off more sharply and sounds a little darker in comparison, which may be a boon for treble-sensitive listeners, but I do find myself wishing for more to help better balance the big bass shelf. Regarding the technicalities, the 142 has better detail retrieval, imaging, dynamics, and separation, while the Martilo offers more note weight, better layering, and a slightly more natural timbre. For me, this one mainly comes down to bass performance and general musicality. The Martillo is a little bassier, and though the sheer quality is lower than that of the 142, it better conveys a feeling of fullness and relaxation. On the other hand, the 142 has a cleaner and more impactful presentation, though its faster decay isn't quite my preference. The Martilo's midrange is also warmer and more relaxed, which I like, though the 142's emphasis on female vocals is sure to please some. I do think that the 142's overall balance gives it an edge as an all-rounder, but I can honestly see the merits of keeping both IEMs in a collection—the 142 for a more lively and energetic listen and the Martillo for warmer, relaxed, bass-heavy sessions.

My pick: Tie

● DUNU DaVinci ($300) - Here we have the 2DD, 4BA hybrid of the DaVinci against the 142's tribrid configuration. Regarding accessories, these two have nearly identical inclusions. The shells also have basically the same dimensions, but for what it's worth, the DaVinci's vent is located behind the 2-pin connection, and its nozzle is slightly bigger. From a design standpoint, I much prefer the more eye-catching blue of the 142 to the sort of bland brown color of the DaVinci. When it comes to the tuning, the DaVinci is more U-shaped with a smaller bass shelf and more rolled off treble response, whereas the 142 is more V-shaped with a bigger mid-bass dip and more treble air. In the bass, the DaVinci has a noticeable mid-bass boost over the 142 and it generally sounds thicker and fuller. The 142 is more sub-bass focused with a deeper extension and a more robust rumble. It also has improved texture and resolution, though the DaVinci's slower decay and somewhat "dirty" bass actually sound more natural to my ear than the 142's quick and clean presentation. The midranges of these two measure closely and they sound quite alike as well, but there are a few key differences. Vocals are very similar, but the 142 has a slightly cleaner, better separated presentation, whereas the DaVinci is a bit smoother, warmer, and more emotionally charged. In fact the entire midrange including instrumentation is more engaging. The 142 is better separated from the bass though which also lends itself to that cleaner style. In the treble, the DaVinci does have a little less sparkle and air but not as much as the graph my lead you to believe. Both sets are free of fatigue but the 142's added treble emphasis does help it sound a bit more complete, though I'd be lying if I said the DaVinci's rolled off nature doesn't work better for me. When it comes to technical performance, these two aren't far off, but I'd say the DaVinci has more note weight, a slightly wider soundstage, and better layering, imaging, and timbre. The 142 has better separation, detail retrieval, and greater soundstage depth. For me, this one comes down to the style of bass response and the overall tonality. The DaVinci is smoother, with a substantial mid-bass presence that exudes warmth throughout the entire frequency response. The 142 is a little cleaner and more lively, and the bass and treble extension make for a complete and well-balanced presentation. The majority of people might even say the 142 makes a better bassy all-rounder and I would be inclined to agree. Some may find the DaVinci's mid-bass to be somewhat intrusive; however, it has a level of engagement and sultriness that's hard for me to resist. If the 142 had more mid-bass and a slightly warmer tilt, it might give the DaVinci a run for its money. As it stands, both of these sets are very much winners in my book, though in a head-to-head matchup, the DaVinci stands supreme once again.

My pick: DaVinci 

● Kiwi Ears Astral with impedance adapter ($300) - This contest pits the 1DD, 6BA hybrid setup of the Astral against the 142's tribrid configuration. To make this one a little more interesting, I chose to utilize an impedance adapter on the Astral to bring the bass level more in line with that of the 142. In an effort to be transparent, I actually used a 33-ohm adapter, which likely measures a bit differently than the supplied graph. Starting with the accessories, there's really no contest here. DUNU is one of the best in the game and the 142 has a much better case and tip selection. The Astral has a solid modular cable, but it's a little stiffer, and the 142's screw-on termination system is preferable to the Astral's friction-based one. Both sets feature resin shells with metal nozzles, but the Astral is slightly smaller with a better contoured shape, though both still offer a comfortable fit for me. When it comes to the sound, both have a V-shaped style tuning that graph quite closely, but in its stock form, the Astral has less bass, upper mids, and treble. Adding impedance manages to close the gap in the bass a bit, making for a more apt comparison. Using this configuration, the Astral's quantity nearly matches that of the 142, but not quite. Also the Astral's bass sounds a little slower, more diffuse, and less energetic. The 142 has a tighter and more controlled presentation, including a quicker attack and decay, and better impact, rumble, and resolution. In the midrange, the Astral is a touch reserved, with a warmer, smoother, and more emotive nature. In contrast, the 142 comes across as cleaner and more detailed, with a certain energy and edge that adds a degree of engagement that the Astral can't quite match. However, due to the somewhat reserved bass and treble, the Astral manages to sound a little more spacious. The 142 isn't necessarily closed off, but the visceral bass and sparkly treble tends to push vocals a bit closer to the center, whereas the Astral's midrange simply has more room to breath. The treble is where the biggest difference lies. Though both are similarly rolled off and extended, the 142 has a decent boost of air, making it noticibly brighter, sharper, and more sparkly. Snares have much more pop and cymbals sound more accurate as well. The extra energy helps the entire frequency response sound better balanced, but it's also more susceptible to sibilance and harshness. However, as a fairly treble-sensitive person myself, I find it to be more than tolerable and non-fatiguing, unless listening at very high volumes. When it comes to the technical performance, the Astral has more note weight, a slightly wider soundstage, and better layering, whereas the 142 has better dynamics, detail retrieval, imaging, and separation. For me, this matchup comes down to the character of the bass and the overall tuning balance and uniqueness. When used with an impedance adapter, the Astral definitely gets closer to my preferences. Its warmer and more relaxed nature is certainly something I enjoy, but it feels almost too familiar and not quite distinct enough to set itself apart from those with a similar sound signature. On the other hand, I think that the 142's combination of bold and punchy bass, detailed and engaging midrange, and an airy, if not a touch bright, treble represents something unique and special in the mid-fi tier. Taking into account the better accessory package and lower price, the winner here becomes clear.

My pick: 142

In conclusion:

DUNU really surprised me when they released two new IEMs with nearly identical driver configurations, yet each has a unique sound signature and mythos surrounding it. The 142 was inspired by the Chinese deity of water and ice, Ao Bing, and I think DUNU executed the tuning and design quite well. The deep sub-bass extension and rumble bring to mind the depth of the ocean. The midrange is clean and detailed, like the waters of an undisturbed mountain lake. The treble also has a light and effervescent quality, like bubbles coming up to the surface. Even the enveloping soundstage is like being submerged in an ocean of sound, and the dynamics remind me of the consistent and ever-present power of waves. The slightly cold tonality and crisp treble response also play into the ice aspect of the theme, though pairing it with a tube amp can help warm it up. To put it simply, the 142 is the kind of bassy all-rounder that bass enthusiasts would love to own. It transitions seamlessly from pop and EDM to classical and country. Now, if it were up to me, there are a few things that I would address, but they are minor in the grand scheme. A longer bass decay would help the low end sound more natural, and a little more mid-bass emphasis would be nice too. The lower mids could use a small boost, and the upper portion could be toned down a hair. The treble is pretty great as is, but a little less incisiveness would be welcome. Overall, though, between the eye-catching design, awesome tuning, solid technical performance, and great accessories, the 142 is truly the whole package. With the releases of the 142 and 242, DUNU has added two more great products to its impressive catalog, and I'm excited to see what the company does next.