DUNU Studio SA6 MK2

Review Of The Dunu SA6 MK2​

Introduction​

DUNU is a reputable firm that specializes in manufacturing cables and other electro-acoustic goods. Additionally, they offer their own line of eartips called Candy and S&S. The firm was commended for its technology and quality, and it was among the first to create modular cables with modular termination connectors. I have adored all of their IEMs, including the Vulcan, Kima series, Tales, SA6, and others, because of their excellent build quality, excellent sound quality, and superior aesthetics. I managed to obtain a pair of DUNU SA6 MKII for review purposes, despite the fact that it has been some time after their debut, but before, I would want to address a few points.

Disclaimer​

*This is a review unit, courtesy of Concept Kart. All thanks to them for providing. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “SA6 MKII.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the SA6 MKII based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

Six balancing armature drivers make up the multi-driver arrangement of the SA6 MKII. Two Sonion woofers are used for low frequencies, Knowles twin midrange drivers are used for middle frequencies, and Knowles dual treble tweeters are used for high frequencies. Through a three-way frequency crossover, all of these drivers are connected and regulated. Unlike its predecessors, which had a more bespoke-looking shell from the nozzle side, this one is incredibly ergonomically designed. At the end of the day, they appear really different from other IEMs, so I would advise trying it before making any decisions. There were no problems or weariness felt when wearing or using it, even after listening for a long time. The faceplate is made of wood and has a layer of resin applied to maintain its original appearance. The DUNU Hulk mini cable, a premium two-pin cable with modular plug attachments at one end, is included with the IEMs. Additional accessories that come with the IEM include a carrying bag, modular plugs (3.5mm and 4.4mm), a cleaning brush, eartips in a variety of sizes, and a 3.5mm to 1/4inch connector. Regarding the technical details, the sensitivity is 114dB and the impedance is 24Ohms. The frequency response spans from 5 Hz to 40 kHz, with less than 0.5% of total harmonic distortion.

***Above Image Credits***

Sound​

The balanced tuning of the SA6 MKII favors the mid range, making the sound open and more expressive, while the treble's spacious and airy response balances it out. The SA6 MKII's response is quite subtle and soothing, yet it's not depressing or laid back in the slightest; rather, it elicits an enthusiastic response rather than a tranquil one. The response is more in line with what I would have imagined from my Monarch MKII when compared to the SA6 MKII with Monarch MKII; nonetheless, the bass and treble are not as deep and expansive.In my perspective, the SA6 MKII is exceptional because, even after being advanced in the upper frequencies, it still sounds remarkably natural and smooth. While none of its competitors can equal what DUNU has accomplished with the SA6 MKII, it can still compete with IEMs that have tribid or hybrid drivers installed. What makes the BA so good is its ability to balance secure and polish with clarity and details. Let's take a closer look at the sound.

Treble​

The response of the treble area is quite calming and revealing, allowing for a safe and comprehensive response to that doesn't come off as aggressive. I mean, this is the first time I have heard a smooth response in the upper frequencies while still generating amazing details—especially when it comes to an all-BA set. The vocals, which often sound open and forward, don't appear to come over as such in places where the upper treble, which has excellent air and wide response, seems a touch muted. Conversely, the tones of the instruments are lively but round; they don't sound harsh or metallic. The lower treble brings the notes forward and vibrant, all the while sounding forward and with a strong feeling of tonal correctness. The response highlights the light and energetic sound of the instruments and singers, while also exhibiting lean features that may deviate from a natural sound. However, the impact of these notes isn't heavy, which may disclose such response. As a result, the treble region's overall appearance is vast, light, and calming.

Mid Range​

In terms of the mid range, I was astounded by the contrast and intricacies that each note could offer; the delicately smooth yet crisp intensity created a soothing and invigorating sound. The primary cause of it was that neither the instruments nor the vocals were really thrust forward. The note sounds a little different in my opinion because of its occurrence and unusual presentation without depending too much on energy, which also suitably separates the vocalist's presence from the surrounding instruments in a large area. Similar energy was resonant in the upper mid range as in the lower treble, but the presentation is more enjoyable to listen to. However, while listening to livelier or even basic tunes, the voices occasionally tend to sound off-key. The instruments and vocals sound clear and beautifully detailed, especially the female vocals, which captivate and enliven you with their light and open response. The voices and the instruments seem upfront and dense, but not thick or heavy, which drowns out and leaves the sound wobbly and mumbly. The lower mid range plays a significant role in creating this lively yet peaceful response. The notes should have depth and thickness; some may claim that they do, but I think it sounds a little strange and odd. The clarity in this area also contributes to the sound's pleasing quality. However, once more, the notes are helped in by the dense response produced by the lower mid range. Compared to thin, the higher frequencies should sound more genuine. As a result, the mid range area is presented in a pleasant, revealing, and fascinating manner overall.

Bass​

Getting to the bass, I think it makes the entire response right. By which I mean that the bass responds very well, allowing for a more controlled yet effective response that influences the warmth into the lower mid range. Although many people may be aware, the BA bass has a certain quantity and quality to it. It used to sound more puffy than thump, but that is usually not the case these days. In contrast, the SA6 MKII exhibits a more punchy and rumbly bass instead of a thumping and booming sound because the bass is more prominent in the sub bass region. Although the quantity of the guitar slams isn't quite there, they do sound satisfying. However, I do agree that the bass has a nice, detailed, and controlled feel. Like previously indicated, the mid bass has a good heft and presence but doesn't sound particularly powerful or engaging—rather, it sounds warm. The emphasis is in the subbas region, which tends to sound deep and punchy. Ultimately, I think the bass is done really well; I'm not sure about the earlier models, but I do think this pair is unique compared to others on the market, particularly its competitors. Overall, the bass response is punchy, rumbly, and controlled in its presentation.

Technical Performance​

The technical skill of the DUNU SA6 MKII is another feature that makes me adore them even more. I think that every aspect of them, from the imaging to the layering to the details, is done to the highest standard. I find the SA6 MKII to sound more refined and immersive, even though its peers have a more expansive, open, and vast sounding response. However, even the stage is quite roomy; let's delve deeper into the specifics.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

The response is more holographic, the notes are firmly present and positioned to create a very nicely staged presentation that is nicely spread out, and because the stage is not greatly expanded, the presentation becomes more engaging. It was a surreal experience for me because of the crisp, clear imaging that enhances the overall clarity of the notes and the precise layering and separation that makes the notes stand out more.

Speed & Resolution​

The resolution of this all-BA IEM is the best I have heard of, but the details are not crisp or metallic—rather, they are smooth but not soft, with the micro details being particularly notable as well as the macro details are also certainly revealing. Although I find the notes' attack and decay to be a little off, their rapid pace effectively resolves the presentation and prevents it from sounding disorganized.

Sound Impressions ​

Bass Switch​

Although I didn't think there was much of a difference, it was effective where it mattered. The response did sound less thrilling and more balanced in the higher frequencies when I turned on the switch. Additionally, I discovered that the thinness that occasionally surfaced when I listened to upbeat music or, more especially, female vocals, was subdued and seemed more realistic to me. Although the bass felt strong and powerful as well, which contributed to the bass sounding more pounding and dynamic, I think the bass of the dynamic driver is far superior. I found the differences to be subtle, but for other listeners, they will have a greater effect.

Sources​

Sony WM1A - The response from this pair was exactly what I could have hoped for when listening to SA6 MKII with the WM1A. It sounds very wholesome and well-balanced because of the notes' roundness and fullness. Whether it's the vocals or the instruments, both maintain the same level of quality and quantity while adding a comforting warmth. Although the same can be said for the other sources I tried, I think this pairing has a more natural presentation and heavier notes. The treble sounds more expansive and removes the subdued effect, while the bass is also less controlled and causes a natural decay.

Tempotec V6 - I find that the more transparent and detail-revealing sound of the SA6 MKII when paired with the V6 sounds a little too expressive. The vocals frequently start to sound metallic because the response is more focused on the upper mid range and lower treble while the bass is more in control, making it sound a little sharper than before. However, I find that listening to tracks with a lot of bass has a very enjoyable and fun sound quality because of the impact and cleanliness of the bass as well as the sparkling high notes.



Kiwi Ears Allegro - When listening to SA6 MK2 with Allegro, the sound seemed more personal, which made it easier to understand the notes' sharpness and differentiate them. The response was all pushed forward, from bass to high, yet the coherence and balance in between seemed organic and seamless. However, I did notice that listening to busy or complicated tunes made it difficult to pick up on subtleties because of the forward and near response, but the bass also felt more prominent and forceful. Even yet, I continue to like its meticulous and sterile presentation.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

Ultimately, the DUNU SA6 MKII is a fantastic all-around BA IEM because of its subtle yet calming response, which captivates you whether you're listening to tracks with Vocal specific tracks or Bass heavy tracks. The SA6 MKII is a truly unique piece of art, and I had a great time listening it. For that reason, I heartily recommend it to anyone looking for a detailed and engaging sounding response.

***Dunu sa6mk2 has a price tag of $579. I bought this iem myself to write an independent review and have listened to it for over 200 hours.



Specs

Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance: 24 ohms @ 1 kHz
Sensitivity: 114 +- 1 dB @ 1 kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.5% @ 1 kHz
Cable : Hulk Pro Mini
Cable Length : 1.2m
Cable Connector : 2-Pin (0.78mm)
Plug Connector : Patented Q-Lock Plus Modular Plug System
Included Plug Terminations: 4.4 mm TRRS Balanced, 3.5 mm TRS Single-Ended



Foreword

Good resolution, good detail reproduction. The background is a bit lackluster for these great features. Let's get started.

Build

Dunu SA6mk2 comes with a really big box. Everything in the box is very high quality. Especially the case quality is awesome, the inside is covered with velvet. There are more tips, they have different shapes and characteristics. It also includes one brush and 6.3mm converter.



Shells

Dunu Sa6mk2 has the familiar "big shells" of the Sa series. Although they are big, the fit is not bad. The shape is good to fit the ear. The isolation is quite good. Appearance? The wood-like surface is different for each iem and is unique to that iem. It feels epic and looks good at the same time. They feel solid in hand.

Cable

Dunu Sa6mk2 comes stock with the Dunu Hulk Mini. The Dunu Hulk Mini sells for 200 dollars. That's a pretty good jest. The cable has a changeable jack. Comes with 4.4 and 3.5 (the 2.5 is going out of business) look and durability are very good. No microphonics. I must say that I found the sound transfer skill successful. Much better than the stock cable of many iem's I have. About the build quality, I can shortly say that you can pull a car.

Sound

First of all, let's see what this switch does. I can say that it slightly raises the lower frequencies and lower mids. Acoustically, there is a more fresh sound when the switch is off. When listening to hiphop or EDM, turning the switch on allows you to hear more sub. This hearable difference is not dramatic. But it's a nice touch.

6 balanced armatures do a great job in terms of resolution. In addition to this, the detail level is above its price. Soundstage is spatially successful. Depth is enough, wide could be better. In-stage localization fidelity is okay. The sound is realistic but the separation is a bit weak. To put it simply, this is a critical listening iem, not really suitable for everyday use.

Another nice thing about this iem is that it is ideal for listening to any kind of music. But I would say it's especially great for pop and rock. The bass guitar timbre is impressive. Dunu sa6mk2 shows its potential when paired with a better source. For this iem, an excessive increase in the source quality can give good results.

The sound signature is up for discussion. I can say that there is a mid-focused W shape. Vocals and violin are in the foreground, followed by guitar and wind instruments. In general, fretted instruments sound better than fretless ones. The preferred setting for the treble adds a chaotic atmosphere to the sound. It's not bad, but it undermines the great potential that exists. On the other hand, the condition of the low frequencies is quite positive and the lack of dynamic drive is not felt. There's not exactly a natural tone, but there's nothing disturbing either. There are some tonal touches, some right and some wrong.



Bass

Details, resolution, texture. It's really good. When the switch is turned on, the bass balance shifts from midbass to sub bass. That's very good. Overall the low frequencies are both instrumentally good and punchy. They are well tuned and do a good job with all kinds of music. The Dunu Sa6mk2 has a textured and complete sub bass response.

Mid

The first point I'll make is the wonderful lower mids, well separated from the bass. The lower guitar tones and the instruments in this zone sound lush and resolved. The separation is not bad, everything is separated but they are very close. Add to that the difference in volume and you get a great sense of depth, but the width is average. This is not a problem because you enjoy the overall instrument timbre and resolution. The female vocals could have been a bit behind. The upper guitar tones are also a bit too forward. Despite all this, all the detail and micro detail you hear is stunning. In addition to this, the depth perception I mentioned adds a mystical atmosphere and realism to the sound. There is a very good resolution throughout the mid frequencies. By the way, unlike other fretless instruments, the violin and cello have a wonderful timbre.

Treble

Good on the surface. High resolution, well placed and textured. But unbalanced in itself. 8Khz is high, and then what? The lower treble is uncontrolled and wobbly. Obviously the drop from 8Khz to 10Khz has negatively affected the sound, the cymbals are good but the air frequencies are not so good. But are the trebles bad in the whole presentation? No, it gives the expected resolution, detail reproduction. But they don't provide enough freshness, they don't give the necessary width in the soundstage. The extension is good for "8Khz" but not enough for the rest. I can't say "bad" because the cymbals I hear are really nice and well worth the price. But the potential is wasted with wrong tonality when it could have been much better, especially for the lower treble. I would have liked to hear more "ss" at 10Khz and beyond, and they must have thought of that because there is a hill at 14Khz. Is it enough to save the situation? That depends on the person, I'm not satisfied.



Last Words

Dunu Sa6 is a good iem. Despite a somewhat tiring presentation and poor separation, it has excellent detail reproduction and high resolution. It has some tonal flaws, but overall it's a reliable product that works well with any music. If you don't have very solid tonal expectations, you may prefer this headphone. It's not the first choice for everyday use, but it's perfect for critical listening. It's worth the price.

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:​

• The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
• No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
• For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
• As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

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:

• Bass - 2 Sonion AcuPass Vented dual woofer
• Midrange - 2 Knowles custom midrange driver
• Treble - 2 Knowles custom dual tweeter

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:

• 1 pair of Dunu SA6 MK2
• 1 carrying/protective case
• 1 Hulk pro mini cable with Q-lock plus modular cable system
• 4.4mm and 3.5mm plugs
• 3.5mm female to 6.5mm male adapter
• 1 cleaning brush
• 4 pairs of SnS tips (S,M,ML,L)
• 1 pair of foam tips
• 3 pairs of narrow bore eartips (S,M,L)
• 4 pairs of medium bore eartips (S,M,ML,L)

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.

​

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 @koyawmohabal aka Practiphile for their generosity in providing me with the opportunity to audition and review the SA6 MK2. Their patience and support are greatly appreciated.

WHERE TO BUY:
Amazon
HiFiGO

The company DUNU has been around for a while. A company hailing from China, they have released a few good in-ear monitors over the past few years. This is their latest offering, the DUNU SA6 Mk2. The DUNU SA6 Mk2 uses a 2nd generation. 6 balanced armature drivers and has a dedicated switch that noticeably enhances the lower frequencies and makes the overall sound more thicker and immersive.

DISCLAIMER:​

• I have no affiliation with DUNU and have not received any monetary compensation during or after writing this review. HifiGo provided this unit to me in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
• As a non-professional reviewer, I aim to use simple terms that can be understood by both beginners and experts in the hobby.
• Please keep in mind that the opinions expressed in this review are subjective and based on my personal experience with the unit. I encourage you to try the product yourself to form your own opinion.

PACKAGING​

The packaging feels premium and includes many premium inclusions as well. I noticed lately that some Chi-Fi companies started to charge us lots of money for just the sound without considering the inclusions. And as a consumer, packaging is really important.












----- SKIP THIS PART IF NOT INTERESTED -----


Let me add something unrelated since I really wanted some companies to notice their packaging. Consumers often form quick judgments based on their initial visual impressions. When they encounter a product, its packaging communicates a message to them. The packaging plays a crucial role in catching the eye and creating an inviting appeal. Furthermore, it greatly contributes to brand recognition. That is why I must commend DUNU for successfully bringing forth this premium package to me.

----- THANK YOU! -----

Anyways, enough of that here's what's inside the box:

• DUNU SA6 MK2 in-ear monitors
• Candy-like eartips
• Leather case
• S&S eartips (God-tier eartips btw!)
• Regular silicone eartips
• Modular cable with 3 terminations (3.5mm, 4.4mm, 6.3mm jacks)

BUILD QUALITY​

The DUNU SA6 MKII exhibits a CIEM form factor made with a resin build, which I find particularly comfortable, especially when paired with the high-quality S&S eartips. This in-ear monitor utilizes a 6 balanced armature configuration. Additionally, the cable appears robust and high-end, it's a modular cable offering users a range of options to choose from.

SOUND​

The DUNU SA6 MkII has a rich, desirable, U-shaped signature decreasing the amount of midrange while making the lower frequencies thicker and treble smoother.

BASS
The bass has good texture and weight which I found surprising from an all-BA setup. Its dynamics and density are similar to what you would hear on a dynamic driver, except that this particular driver is an all-BA driver.. Turning on the switch makes the lower frequencies even more pronounced with sub-bass domination and less mid-bass thump.

MIDS
The mids exhibits a warmer tonality with rich and natural vocals. Female vocals, in particular, exhibit remarkable prominence, emotional depth, and warmth. However, there may be a slight lack of texture in male vocals. Overall, vocals never sounded shouty at all as the upper-mids are toned down in this IEM. Instruments, such as acoustic guitars, sound realistic, and natural without sacrificing clarity.

TREBLE
The treble of the SA6 Mk2 is characterized by its crispness and a sense of openness. It manages to deliver a lively and energetic presentation without sounding harsh or overly splashy. The treble's energy adds an exciting level of detail to the overall sound, ensuring that the SA6 Mk2 remains engaging and far from dull.

TECHNICALITIES
The SA6 Mk2 has an open width soundstage that greatly creates a holographic field that makes me feel like I'm in a huge stage. The instruments are everywhere in an organized manner. The depth of the soundstage is more of an in-your-face type and doesn't go that far inside the soundstage. Imaging is excellent even in complex tracks, the SA6 Mk2 excels at maintaining excellent instrument separation. Each instrument is distinct and discernible, allowing for easy tracking of individual elements within the music.

TEST TRACKS​

CONCLUSION​

​

Pros:

• All-BA Setup that has a very dynamic tonality
• Switches make the sound more meatier
• Decent technicalities
• Female vocals are emotional
• The bass is very outstanding for an all-BA setup
• Very good with any genre you throw at it
• Very generous inclusions

Cons:

• Personally, I can't find any negatives.

The DUNU SA6 Mk2 is an amazing in-ear monitor that utilized the usage of a switch and an all-BA setup to create a fun and exciting in-ear monitor without sacrificing some details. It also has a solid packaging and accessories making the SA6 Mk2 a worthy purchase.

A preface: I was not provided this set, much like all of my reviews, these thoughts are my own and I welcome you to disagree with them as we all have different ears and preferences. I have owned these for about a week now and here are my short impressions:

1. Sound:
   This is a set that really does not impress you out of the box. Now this is not a bad trait to have. Since in terms of playback the set is actually quite good.
   
   Bass: It's BA Bass, that should be enough said. It would be unreasonable to hold it to the same standards as a DD, but that is what most folks will truly desire after listening to this set. There is no slam, no major impact, more of a light tap to communicate that its there. This allows for some added dimensional depth to the replay however it does not allow for the fullness that you might get from other drivers. It's a BA thing, lets leave it at that. Immersion mode helps bring more out of it if you crave just that much more.
   
   Mids: Pulled back however well balanced. This allows for other technicalities to come forward in front of the vocalist when needed and pull back otherwise. Female vocals on this set suffer due to this staging and may feel overly recessed.
   
   Treble: Inoffensive, tight, smooth and detailed. Overall a very pleasant listening experience for everything. Nothing is going to feel shouty or piercing at any point.
   
   Head stage/ Sound stage: Massive, this is a set that really sets you into the center of an orchestra, with an almost surgical directional positioning. Instrumental placement allows for each to take its owns place within the sound band. With this, playing games is not recommended especially when you pair it with the overall tuning of the set. Especially in a competitive setting where you might need
   
   Overall tuning impressions: Well balanced with a slightly recessed vocal range, held together by an "anti-shout" tuning style which really helps with long listening sessions.
   
   Technicalities: I found to be spot on, general detail AND micro retrieval is wonderful, again, that anti shout really helps bring it forward and center when needed but not overly so. Hence the layering performance of this set is really something.
   
   
2. Packaging and Presentation:
   DUNU is known for their premium accessories and attention to presentation. So it is no surprise to find a similar level of fit and finish here as well as everywhere else in their lineup.
   
   Cable: The DUNU Hulk Mini is a fantastic addition even if it may be a bit too heavy or stiff for some.
   
   Case: The provided carrying case is well made and made for a very nice unboxing experience.
   
   Tips: Tip selection is wide, featuring Candy Tips, S&S tips and a standard generic pack of tips. Having the two "premium" options was a warm welcome and both offered a noticeable slightly different experience when it came to replay.
   
   
3. So why the 4.5 star?
   To me, this set could have been at 5 at the $400-$450 dollar range. However the extra $100-$180 markup pushes it into a range of EST hybrids and some truly trend setting sets.
4. Final Verdict? I love this set, even as a 4.5/5 and even with the rather not competitive price, the overall fit, finish, packaging, presentation and nonstandard tuning, let these have their own little niche. DUNU did not disappoint in terms of product, but they did disappoint, ever so slightly in terms of pricing. I understand their intentions of bundling the Hulk Mini cable and I respect the choice, but again, I would rather take a price reduction with a slightly lower quality cable, this will help place the set more competitively within the overall market.
5. A long term update: This set has been my daily jammer, relaxing but all in all an amazing set which allows for long listening periods without fatigue and I truly have been enjoying it. I have adjusted the rating .5 more bringing it out to a total of 4.5/5. Like many have brought up the driver quality and tuning really helps this all BA set shine, mittigating any timbre issues.

Dunu top sound has been in the game as long as Ive been and have made many excellent iems throughout the years , I noticed them and bought my first iem from them which was dn1000 which blew my mind for sound , it's an audiophile basshead iem with massive soundstage, then I bought dn2000 which was more balanced and massive soundstage as well and then I bought the dn2000j which is an akg k3003 killer for cheap and it's the most balanced and extended one at that time. I have been a fan since the beginning but couldn't buy everything that's been released but I've tried what I can afford. I haven't heard the sa6 og or ultra but when I saw the mkii I had to buy it as the shell color was attracting me and I had enough for it. The packaging is the usual fully loaded dunu style with a lot of accessories and great build. The shell is resin and stabilized wood in sexy orange color, the fit is excellent like semi custom and cable is thick and modular. I have instantly fallen in love with everything about it and haven't tried the switch or special tips and have been enjoying it just the way it is . The review will be in 2 part , one switch off and other switch on .

Sound :
Bass:
(Switch off) the bass is balanced as both subbass and midbass are equally excellent and speed of the bass as well and the layering of the bass is also excellent as you can here the deep detailed tones and texture , bass has reverb and is deep.
(Switch on) the subbass is increased by 3db and mid range as well bringing the mids forward to the perfect position , I thought it was already excellent and with switch on bass and mids become endgame. Layering doesn't change neither imaging, both are top notch and highly clear and open and detailed . The sonion ba woofer never ceases to amaze you with dynamic level bass and ba level speed .
Midrange:
(Switch off)The midrange is the second star of the show with bass following second , the mids are slightly in the distance but not recessed only lacking , it's very holographic and layered and has lots of micro detail and is super clean , it's balanced with upper mids and never shouty or sibilant , it has great 3d imaging and speed too while being natural.
(Switch on)
The midrange increase forwardness and fullness , the vocals improve fullness and becomes more natural and real and makes you in awe, you can feel the breath of singer and tone of the voice too, you can tell the position the singer is singing from and how far or how close. They are to you the quietest to the loudest passage is easily heard and felt .
Treble:
(Switch off)Treble is clear and extended and balanced with no peaks, it has smoothness and realism to the tone with switch off and doesn't sound thin . Its is also holographic and layered just like the rest of the sound . No ba timber is heard in the tuning.
(Switch on) treble increase fullness and natural tones while having same extension and magical layer . I also felt like volume was increased by 3db.

Conclusion:dunu has definitely came a long way since the trident and ever different releases came with improvement in tuning , technology improvement, value improvement and looks improvement. Sa6mkii should be selling like hot cakes with the sound tuning it has and I think should be considered endgame material easily . From packaging, to build , to sound and pricing . Everything is perfect

I've purchased mine from

https://hifigo.com/products/dunu-sa6-mkii-iems
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3B9S5S6/dunu+sa6+mk2/mkii/

DUNU SA6 MK2 - "Is love better the second time around?"


DISCLAIMER:


This is a Philippine tour unit from Hifigo. If you think my impressions are being affected by this fact, it is your prerogative to think so.


As for this review, I only wrote down my interptetation of how they sound for me. It is subjective and biased because, yeah who isnt?


I will try my best to give metrics tho, alteast there is objectivity in my observation.


Consider this review, a personal user experience. Let's start.


SETUP:
-Shanling M3X using UAPP, Hiby, Neutron and stock player


-Dunu SnS tips.


-stock cable in both 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced


MY LIBRARY:
I grew up listening to 90’s music. Alternative, punk-rock, screamo, rap, Philippine OPM, Anime songs, JPOP, KPOP, metal, reggae and a lot more.
The artists I regularly listen to are:


Rock-Alternative-Metal
Incubus, 311, BMTH, Matchbox 20, The Goo Goo Dolls, Paramore, Polyphia, The Calling,, Babymetal, Metallica, Slipknot, Bon Jovi, Coheed and Cambria, Deftones, Red Hot, Green day,


OPM(Original Pinoy Music):
E-heads, Slapshock, Parokya, Urbanddub, Up Dharma Down, Bamboo, IV of spade, Kamikazee, Rivermaya


POP:
IU, Yoasobi, Yorushika, Milet, Reona, Maroon 5, Coldplay, Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, Taylor, Dua Lipa, Oliva Rodrigo, Billie Eilish


OTHERS:
Carpenters, Micheal Learns to Rock, Celine Dion, Bob Marley, Sitti, Daft Punk, Pink Floyed, Earth wind and fire, Amber rubarth, Sia, Yosi Horikawa


I listen to more, but I can’t just list them all here.haha. Just giving you an idea on what I listen.


WHAT'S IN THE BOX?




Dunu does not dissappoint when it comes to its packaging. You get enough accesories for the price. In the box, you get:


1.) Many eartips including the S and S tips. They look like reverse starline tips and they seal very well.


2. IEM case. It's always nice to have one.


3. Cable with interchangable termination. I find the cable to be of good quality and sturdy enough. They feel like a rope to be honest haha. You also get a 6.3mm adapter.


4. How can i miss the iems..


BUILD and COMFORT


The build is made of a plastic resin material that is similar to the ultras.
They are quite nice to wear. When paired with the SnS tips, they feel snug and secure. However, the nozzle doesnt have an eartip stopper, or whatever you call that. Meaning, when you want to tip roll, some eartips will not stay in the nozzle and gets left in your ears when you take them out haha.


As for the design. Well, you can see from the pictures. I dont need to describe every detail and color. They look gorgeous!


Reminiscing


I love the OG SA6, so as the SA6 Ultra. I immediately fell in love with them at my first listen, especially the Ultras. I was really excited to hear the MK2 since it follows the same midrange and treble, except for the extension in both ends.


The SA6 MK2 has more subbass and much more upper treble boost than both the OG and Ultra. The mids and treble are almost identical really.
How do they sound? You guessed it right. Just how they are graphed. I hear more subbass and more airy presentation in the treble. I was a bit underwhelmed because this was not the one I was longing for. The sound signature is approaching a V tonality, albeit having forward vocals. I am very particular on cymbal timbre. I keep repeating this because, as a drum enthusiast, I need to figure out hi-hats, rides and crash strikes. I then reminisce about the sound that I fell in love with.


I kept looking


I kept looking for that sound I missed. I changed eartips, turned on the bass switch, which actually works!


When I turned on the switch, I get better balance between the extremes. It doesn’t mean that the treble gets lowered, but at least the bass balances them out. They are fun sounding and very engaging. I like it.


Perceived stage is better too! Oh the stage is actually very spacious. But too stretched-out for my preference. Maybe I don’t like wide stages after all.


Anyhow, layering is good, and resolution is TOTL level. It seemed like instruments were being played in one plane, but I can still distinguish each nuance.


With all the good things about the SA6 MK2, I still found myself not satisfied, and so I kept looking.


It must be me


Is there something wrong with the SA6 MK2?


After a few days listening. I find myself grabbing other sets. I grab the Galileo. I grab some KZ sets. Heck I grab anything, like a banana for no reason..haha.


So what is wrong with the MK2? I am not sure.


I am thinking it is the overall tonality. Since the bass is elevated, It seems to mask that openness in the midrange. They are not muddy in any way, but I feel like I do not really need much bass to enjoy my music. Heck I even enjoy heart mirror’s bass on stock.


The overall tonality just did not click. Yes they give me the intimacy in sound and the resolution, but it does not let my heart sing. Is there something wrong with the SA6 MK2? I don’t think so. It must be me.


Is it a true successor then?


Well, probably yes. But more like an alternative to the Ultra. Some people might actually like this if they feel the Ultras lack the bass and treble. But if you already have the Ultra, I don’t think you are missing a lot.


As for the OG SA6, this is better I suppose. But I highly suggest you audition these. The boost in bass and treble might not please you.


So to answer the question. I do think it is a successor to the OG SA6, but not really with the Ultras, unless you like bass and treble.


The Twist


I lost hope. The Dunu SA6 MK2 was just sitting on my desk waiting to be sent to the next reviewer. I was thinking of giving one last listen and thought of using the 4.4mm balanced plug. I didnt really think they needed that. They are very easy to drive. Heck im only at volume 20 on my m3x at 3.5mm


I tried the balance anyway. And I am very glad I did.


I now hear the heart and core of this set. My heart beats fast. Listening to Celine's "All by myself". The clarity is now on another level. Yes I still hear the boosted treble but the bass seemed cleaner and has a more natural decay. The bass has become really quick and the treble has smoothened a bit. Listening to Yorushika's "bomber" is heaven. The bass riff was just satisfyingly good.


I moved on to the next track. "All out of love". Nice! Very lovely. The center imaging is back. The one I was longing for from the Ultras is here, now. That laser focus resolution paired with a nice bass decay.. ughh.. this is it. What a twist!


PROS


I like the note definition on this set. In the track "Osaki ni Shitsureishimasu" by Hanabie , the shamisen retained its tone and timbre even on heavy distortion guitars at the background.


bass is textured and fast. At least on 4.4mm balanced. Ed Sheeran's Dive has a very very punchy kick drum definition. Vocals are also well centered and presents that naturalness without the bloat from bass


Vocal texture is really good. In the track Drive by Inucubus. Vocals are articulate and almost realistic. Also in the track "Love Hurts", instruments seem to be dancing around my head and the micro details are just excellent. Except for the cymbal timbre..


Yoasobi's vocals in the track comet is also very good. You hear every layer with nuances.


CONS


some people might find it lacking in the presence area and gain region. This might be beneficial for some people because there is lesser shout, but I am not used to this staging especially with boosts in the bass and treble.


the boosted air changes the timbre on cymbals for me. I dont find them natural sounding for my preference. In the track Cebuana by Urbandub, the hi hats sounded close to crash cymbals, which was a bummer.


no eartip lock or lip lock on the nozzles. I have had many instanced where the eartips stay stuck on my ears when removing the set haha.


not as clean and open sounding as the Ultras. It's just my preference, so you might like these.


sounds are coming in my head rather than being projected in front. I would prefer a projected staging because it is easy for me to distinguish everything.


COMPARISONS


OG SA6 and ULTRA


- Ultra > SA6 MK2 > OG SA6


Soft ears studio 4
- This is an interesting comparison because I really love the studio 4. The tonality is a bit different though because the Studio 4 is more geared to a more natural replay of instruments, while the SA6 Mk2 is for more engagement and fun factor. Personally, I would probably pick the Studio 4 because of its overall tonality. They don’t seem to boost important parts of the frequency. The SA6 is more resolving though, and has a wider stage, but too stretched out for me.


Mega5p
-It is very clear that the Dunu SA6 MK2 is more resolving when talking about micro nuances. However, I do think the Mega5p has better macro dynamics that can pull out emotions from a track. It is also easier for me to project frontal staging on the Mega5ps. The Dunu has better extension in both ends and has switches for your preference.


OG Oracle
- The tonality is also a bit different. The oracle is leaner in the bass but the mids are more open sounding. But the treble can come off grainy because there is not enough bass to compensate for. The MK2 is more engaging if you like bass. But personally, I think the bass of the Oracle is just enough for me.


QDC ANOLE VX and GEMINI
- Well as I have mentioned, the resolution of MK2 is top notch and is reminiscent of TOTL sets. They share a similar curve in the gain. Yes they resemble, but I do think that the balance in TOTL sets is better implemented and cleaner in note definition. But still, we are talking hundreds of dollars in price difference.


SCORING
-Please be reminded that my scoring is always based on its price range.


TUNING - 2.5
BASS - 2.5
MIDS - 3
TREBLE - 2.5
TECHS - 3


=13.5 ( A+ rank, generally better than other sets. Very good for the price but the tonality might not match your preferences)


Check my scoring criteria here:


https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15WhgCgiMzWfF3ccgB8SK5-Cg7m87kpIShtxsyg2u-AI/edit?usp=sharing


FINAL THOUGHTS


What can I say. I think I have said everything in this writing. The SA6 MK2 is a wonderful set if it matches your preference. I highly recommend auditioning these unless your wallet has been itching to buy a new pair haha.


As for my scoring, even if I liked them during the last days, I still think the Ultra’s are a tad better for my preference. I was really considering if I gave them an S rank, but it just feels wrong. You know what I mean?


Although some people say that it is an alternative to the Ultra’s, well yes. But it was really hard for me to enjoy the Dunu SA6 MK2. The twist I mentioned when changing the termination to 4.4 might even be placebo haha.


Having said that, this has been my user experience of the DUNU SA6 MK2. They present a balanced sound with good extension in both ends. Bass is tight and does not feel like a BA at all. Mids are well resolved and vocals are forward sounding even with a lesser gain in 2-5k. Treble is well extended but I thought they could use a bit of presence and body on cymbal attacks. Technicalities are comparable to TOTL sets, if you are after that kind of sound.


As you can see in my first impressions video here:





I was not that impressed and I was a bit disappointed. Or maybe my expectations were too high haha.


Good thing I gave them a chance because,


Love is always better the second time around.. Happy mother's day.


WHERE TO BUY: Non-affiliate


https://hifigo.com/products/dunu-sa6-mkii-iems


￥ 80,751 1%OFF | DUNU SA6 MKII / MK2 6BA In-Ear Monitors IEMs 6 Balance Armature Drivers Earphones 2 Tuning Switch Solid Wooden Covers Headphone
https://a.aliexpress.com/_EvQYX1f

When approached by enthusiasts who have bitten the IEM bug, I always suggest exploring the “mid-fi” market. Typically priced around $500, these IEMs are truly high-end products that offer longevity and stability, unlike products from fast-paced $50 IEM market flooded with hype trains. Moreover, mid-fi IEMs are not exorbitantly expensive like the top-of-the-line models.

The original Dunu SA6, a definitive mid-fi IEM, has been a staple since its 2020 release. However, times have changed. Can the newly launched Dunu SA6 MkII live up to its predecessor’s legacy?

Forewords​

• What I look for in an IEM is immersion. I want to feel the orchestra around me, track individual instruments, and hear all of their textures and details. I’m not picky about tonality, as long as it does not get in the way of immersion.
• I rate IEMs within with a consistent scale from 1 (poor) to 3 (Adequate) to 5 (outstanding). Ratings are assigned by A/B tests against benchmark IEMs, regardless of the retail price.
• Ranking list and measurement database are on my IEM review blog.
• I purchased this unit at a discount from HifiGo for the review. I have no affiliation with or financial interest in Dunu or Hifigo. The unit retails for $579 at the time this review was published. You can find out more info and get yourself a unit from Hifigo.

Source chains for listening tests:

• Reference Chain: iPad -> Venture Electronic Megatron -> Topping G5 (for all A/B tests)
• Portable Setup: Shanling M6 Ultra
• Dongle: FiiO KA3

Local FLAC files ripped from CDs or bought from Qobuz were used for most casual listening and A/B tests. My playlist for A/B tests can be found on Apple Music here.

All of my listening was done with Spin Fit CP145 or W1 ear tips. I listen at a medium volume. I usually turn up the volume until the midrange is fully audible and detailed, unless a treble peak or overwhelming bass prevents me from doing so.

Specs​

• Driver: 2 Sonion Vented Woofers + 2 Knowles custom midrange drivers + 2 Knowles custom dual tweeters
• Connector Type: 2-pin
• Impedance: 24 ohm @ 1kHz
• Sensitivity: 114dB @ 1kHz

Build and Comfort​

The included accessories of the SA6II are practical and abundant. It provides four types of ear tips, including foam and silicone options, along with Dunu’s candy ear tips and S&S ear tips. The carrying case stands out with its custom design and snap open lid, making it a unique addition.



The SA6II comes with Dunu’s Hulk Pro Mini cable. The star feature of the cable is the Q-Lock, Dunu’s swappable plug system. The package contains both 3.5mm and 4.4mm plugs, designed with an elbow joint to prevent protrusion from audio sources, reducing the risk of damage. However, it’s worth noting that the cable that came with my unit is somewhat stiff, which doesn’t impact comfort or handling but makes it harder to lie flat.



Crafted from resin, the earpieces of the SA6II are lightweight. The recessed 2-pin connectors are protected by the shells. The design of the earpieces resembles that of custom IEMs, featuring larger faceplates and more curvature on the surfaces that come into contact with the ears. The nozzles have an average size. The faceplates exhibit a unique combination of wood and resin, resulting in a distinct appearance for each SA6II unit.

In terms of comfort, the SA6II offer a pleasant experience. The contours on the shells provide a secure fit in the ears, while the vents prevent pressure build-up during extended listening sessions. The noise isolation is satisfactory for everyday use, such as bus rides or outdoor walks.

Tonality​

Frequency response of Dunu SA6II against the Harman in-ear target. Measurements were done with an IEC-711-compliant coupler and might only be compared with other measurements from this same coupler. Visit my graph database for more comparisons.



Tonality or “tuning” is where objectivity and subjectivity meet. Objectivity exists in the squiggly lines above, called Frequency Response (FR) graphs. They are created by sweeping a signal from 20Hz to 20kHz and measuring the corresponding loudness coming from an IEM. Unless a human operator deliberately tampers with the microphone or the data, FR does not care about the price or prestige of an IEM and, therefore, is “objective.”

However, human listeners are not microphones. Our ears and brain interpret the sound and decide whether it is “enjoyable.” It is also beneficial to remember that when you play a note on a musical instrument, multiple sounds (fundamental and harmonic) appear simultaneously and mix together. Achieving a life-like balance between frequencies and adding a tasteful amount of imbalance (“colouring the sound”) is the hallmark of an excellent tonality.



Sound signature: Describing the tonality of the SA6II is a difficult task as it aims for a natural sound and does not have significant weaknesses. The IEM offers two tuning modes: default and atmospheric. In the default mode, the sound signature takes on a W-shape, emphasizing bass, midrange, and treble with dips to separate them. Personally, I find the default mode slightly uncanny due to the way vocals and instruments are placed unnaturally closed to me, which results from boosts around 1kHz and 1.5kHz.

The atmospheric mode of the SA6II addresses this issue by pulling back the midrange frequencies, creating a U-shaped sound signature. This shift reduces the impact of the problematic boost, resulting in vocals and instruments feeling more natural and well-placed. The SA6II retains the famous “sibilance dip” at 6kHzfrom its predecessor, effectively reducing harshness and creating a smoother listening experience. The energy in the 8kHz region remains intact, ensuring sufficient presence of cymbals and hi-hats in the music. Additionally, the treble air region of the SA6II has improved compared to the original SA6, enhancing the sense of soundstage and spaciousness.



Female vocal (Rasputin cover by Aurora) The SA6II takes a more integrated approach with female vocals like Aurora’s, blending them within the music rather than emphasizing them above the rest of the band. Unlike IEMs tuned towards a Harman or diffused field target, the SA6II places greater emphasis on the fundamental frequencies of female vocals. However, it still adequately highlights the upper midrange region around 1kHz and 3kHz, resulting in weightier and warmer female vocals without sacrificing clarity. This presentation is highly musical. The SA6II doesn’t boost the upper midrange as much as other IEMs, which means female vocals aren’t overly shouty or in-your-face. The well-known “sibilance dip” prevents harshness and sibilance altogether. Despite its warmer tonality, the SA6II remains capable of revealing nuanced textures and capturing subtle “breaths” in female vocals.

Male vocal (Perfect Symphony by Ed Sheeran and Andrea Bocelli): Similarly, the SA6II integrates male vocals within the music rather than giving them undue prominence. It renders male vocals with exceptional naturalness and musicality. Compared to IEMs tuned towards a Harman or diffused field target, the SA6II adds a touch of extra warmth and weight to male vocals. However, it may lack a bit in terms of texture and nuanced details in male vocals. It could benefit from a slight boost in energy around 3kHz to enhance the overall presentation.



Strings and orchestras (Winter by Freivogel and Voices of Music): The tonality of all instruments leans slightly warmer compared to IEMs tuned towards the Harman or diffused field target, yet they still sound realistic and musical. The timbral accuracy of the SA6II enables differentiation between instruments, making it easier to track individual elements within the orchestra. The lead violin is rendered with vibrancy and brightness, yet devoid of any uncomfortable harshness. Cellos and basses exhibit proper weight, conveying a sense of authority and rhythm within the orchestra.

Drums and bass (Battle Bar): Drum hits and bass guitars receive emphasis on the SA6II. Even though SA6II have balanced armature (BA) woofers, the bass sounds more like it comes from dynamic drivers. Bass notes exhibit slightly softer attack and resonate longer compared to typical BA woofers, contributing to a weightier and more impactful bassline. At the same time, SA6II still maintains quick response to fast and dense basslines, a characteristic inherent to BA woofers. However, in terms of the “elasticity” or “bounciness” sensation of the bass, the SA6II falls slightly short of the best dynamic driver woofers.

Cymbals, hi-hats, chimes (Eye of the Tiger by Survivor): Cymbals and hi-hats are prominent in the mix with SA6II. These instruments sound crisp and energetic without being harsh or piercing, making it easy to follow their rhythm patterns. The decay of notes from cymbals and hi-hats is properly tapered, preventing a splashy sound.

Soundstage Imaging​

Stereo imaging or “soundstage” is a psychoacoustic illusion that different recording elements appear at various locations inside and around your head. Your brain creates based on the cues in the recording, which are enhanced or diminushed by your IEMs, your DAC, and your amplifier. Some IEMs present a wide but flat soundstage. Some present a “3D” soundstage with layering, depth, and height. In rare cases, with some specific songs, some IEMs can trick you into thinking that the sound comes from the environment (a.k.a., “holographic”)

Soundstage imaging with music (One Winged Angel by the Danish National Symphony Orchestra): The SA6II offers a spacious and open soundstage that works well for large orchestral music, such as the test track. Its soundstage emphasizes width over depth, extending beyond the earpieces and even reaching my shoulders when instruments are positioned at the sides. The center of the soundstage tends to be slightly in front of me, creating a sense of the choirs playing in front rather than strictly inside my head. The SA6II also excels in layering, with instruments placed closer sometimes appearing to come from behind my ears or the back of my head. It excels at providing clear localization of instruments on the soundstage, indicating whether they are closer or further away. With the right DAC and amplifier, the SA6II can extend the outermost layer of the soundstage into the surrounding environment, occasionally giving the impression that the sound is coming from the room rather than the IEM itself. The SA6II’s main limitation lies in its sense of depth, which is not strong enough to create a 3D illusion for distant instruments compared to some top-of-the-line IEMs.

Soundstage imaging with games (CS GO Gameplay by Throneful): The wide but flat soundstage of SA6II becomes evident in FPS games like CS GO. The soundstage extends widely to the sides, placing gunshots and footsteps around the my shoulders. However, the sense of distance and direction is not strong when these sounds originate from the front. The soundstage imaging of the SA6II for FPS gaming is not impressive due to a lack of depth information, likely resulting from the midrange boost around 1.5kHz that pushes the midrange forward.

Resolution​

Resolution is a fascinating subject due to the difficulty of pinning down what it really is. To me, “resolution” can be broken down into three components:

1. Sharpness, incisiveness, or “definition” of note attacks (see the figure above).
2. The separation of instruments and vocals, especially when they overlap on the soundstage.
3. The texture and details in the decay side of the notes.

The first two give music clarity and make it easy to track individual elements of a mix. The last provides music details and nuances. Generally, a smooth frequency response and good drivers give the best resolution.

Clarity and Separation (One Winged Angel by the Danish National Symphony Orchestra): The clarity and separation of the SA6II are good without sounding artificially sharpened. Instruments are well-separated, even in busy orchestral compositions, making it relatively easy to track individual instruments. The sonic presentation of the SA6II is clear and detailed without “highlighting” instrument boundaries through exaggerated treble peaks. Personally, I prefer a bit more “edge” to the musical notes to enhance perceived clarity.



Detail retrieval (Paganini Caprice 24 by Daniel Lozakovich):The SA6II performs well in retrieving and presenting micro details, although it prioritizes smoothness and musicality over highlighting those details. The ability to extract and emphasize reverberation depends on the tuning option. With the default tuning, the “room sound” is not well-represented, but switching to the atmospheric mode strengthens the reverberation, creating a strong illusion of sitting in the recording space.

Source PairingPermalink​

Test Track: One Winged Angel by the Danish National Symphony Orchestra

Average dongle (FiiO KA3): When paired with the KA3, the SA6II does not sound bad, but there is a noticeable loss of dynamics, bass, stage depth, and imaging accuracy compared to the reference setup. The drums sound weak instead of being a highlight, and the sense of rhythm and steady pulse of the the orchestra are diminished. The orchestra feels more compressed and lacking depth, with instruments seeming to exist on the same layer without a convincing illusion of distance.

Apple dongle: Surprisingly, the SA6II exhibits a stronger sense of depth and layering when paired with the Apple dongle compared to the KA3. The loss of dynamics and bass mentioned earlier also applies to this pairing. Given the cost and lower energy consumption of the Apple dongle, I would recommend sticking with the Apple dongle or considering to invest in a proper external amplifier rather than opting for a dongle DAC like the KA3.

Comparison and Rating​

Tonality: 4/5 - Good

The SA6II offers a natural and musical tonality, with no instruments or vocals sounding strange or unpleasant. It avoids harshness and sibilance, while delivering strong bass that adds power and weight to the music. However, the default tuning mode of the SA6II can make the stereo image feel uncanny, and both tuning modes feature an early ear-gain boost at 1.5kHz, resulting in vocals and instruments being unnaturally forward and compromising the sense of depth and layering. Therefore, I consider SA6II tonality as “good”, not “outstanding.”

Percussion Rendering: Aria (3/5) < Blessing 2 (4/5) < U12T / E5000 (5/5) = SA6II (5/5)

The standout feature of the SA6II’s sonic performance is its bass. It follows a similar path to the U12T, providing snappy, dynamic, and controlled bass. The bass quantity falls somewhere between the controlled bass presentation of the U12T and the more bass-heavy approach of the E5000. It’s worth noting that the SA6II benefits from being paired with a proper external amplifier to unleash its full potential.

Resolution: SE215 (3/5) < Blessing 2 (4/5) = SA6II (4/5) < Andromeda 2020 (4.5/5) < U12T (5/5)

In terms of resolution, the SA6II performs well and would be considered good or even great by many. However, its weaknesses become apparent when directly compared to top-of-the-line IEMs like the Andromeda 2020 and the U12T. For example, in a performance of the Winter violin concerto by the Voices of Music ensemble, the Andromeda reveals crisper instrument separation, more nuances, and textures in the violin sound of the soloist compared to the SA6II. Therefore, while the resolution of the SA6II is good, it doesn’t quite reach the top-tier level.

Soundstage: SE215 (3/5) < Blessing 2 (4/5) < SA6II (4.5/5) < Andromeda 2020 (5/5)

The SA6II excels in soundstage and imaging, offering more depth and layering than the Blessing 2 IEM. However, it falls short of conveying the enveloping sensation of music wrapping around the listener like the Andromeda and the U12T. When placed alongside these exceptional IEMs, the SA6II feels more restrained and lacking in dimension.

Conclusion​

Similar to its predecessor, the original SA6, the SA6II embodies a quintessential mid-fi IEM. It comes with high-quality accessories, boasts a beautiful design, and provides a comfortable fit. The tonality of the SA6II is natural and pleasant across various genres, offering a refreshing departure from the typical Harman target sound. It also delivers respectable resolution and soundstage performance to complement its tuning. The limitations of the SA6II become noticeable only when scrutinizing the soundstage and comparing it to much more expensive high-end IEMs.

Who is the SA6II suitable for? It may not be the ideal choice for those seeking the most detailed sonic presentation or a bass-heavy sound. It also falls short if one desires the holographic soundstage found in high-end IEMs like the Andromeda. However, the SA6II is a good option for those who desire a natural tonality, appreciate some bass presence without sacrificing midrange clarity, and seek a good level detail and clarity without sacrificing a smooth and pleasant listening experience. Ultimately, the SA6II is a solid choice for individuals looking for a high-end IEM that delivers both in looks and sound quality, without the exorbitant price tag.

Pros:

• Beautiful design and comfortable fit
• Excellent accessories
• Natural and pleasant tonality
• Good bass
• Good resolution
• Good soundstage and imaging

Cons:

• The soundstage lacks a bit of depth
• Smooth presentation can hide some details

Updated: May 14, 2023

Is this iem all the hype or just another battle for your space? Let’s find out!

I bought this iem with my own money. This iem is coming in hot at $579 dollars and to my knowledge is only available at Hifigo, but soon I’d expect it to be readily available in more places. Hifigo had an exclusive with Dunu for the Dunu SA6 Mk 2 for a month.

I’m personally happy to see this iem, as it is a fantastic iem. I wanted to get a hold of the SA6 Ultras, but with this iem I don’t feel that I really need to go to the used market but can get a fresh brand new one.


I am going to share a larger list that I have of songs that I like in this review. Here As this iem deserves it.
Song Choice: Tidal list here:
I listen to a wide variety of music. I pick the songs because of various reasons. But I picture myself locked away like Andy Dufresne from Shawshank blasting music and shut off from the world. It’s a blissful image.
The Marriage of Figaro -The opera song from Shawshank Redemption, terrible recording but fun and gets me in the mood to listen to music.
O mio Babino caro -This is a modern less operatic version but a song with great female vocals.
Video Rigoletto - “La donna e mobile” Sung by one of the three Tenors, great song for high-performing male vocals. Pavarotti is the greatest classic singer maybe ever. Fight me!
Iron man - The sound at the beginning is hard to make sound great, great drums, and cymbals, and if done right it feels like an old-school band.
I Will Survive (1981 recording, I like her voice, and the old vocals, the drums, and various natural instruments really make this a favorite for me.
There is a light That never goes out - Smiths ( A classic, I just love it. It’s mellow, and I can tell a lot of the tuning if this song is done right.)
Jump (I like how the sound effects are in this!)
Star Child Someone recommended this song to me, and I like how funky it sounds and has nice vocals and a mix of music and things going on.
Dicke Titten Ramstein The beginning is amazing and the bass hits hard. Great song. I love rock and metal. The German language fascinates me
Master of Puppets: Very fast song. Helps me determine if the driver can keep up.


Shell:
This shell is out the world comfortable. Comfort is subjective and the shell feels great. The only other shell that I’ve liked as much or more is the Aful Performer 5. It’s all day wear kind of iem, not 1-hour session where your ears hurt. I find some nozzles to be too much for me, but this iem does fine at its size. It is thick and might stick out of your ears a bit, but the nozzle is a nice fit.



Case

This case is really awesome. I feel it is interesting and well thought of. I enjoy it a great deal. It does have some memory but not much. I typically coil my cables when I store them and this cable has a nice velcro strap that is clean and well done. When coiled this case works well, and I can easily take it to work with me as needed or on the go. The colors are bright and fun, but not tacky. It feels and looks premium and beautiful. The texture of the inside is sweet felt, and has that feeling of premium and build quality unlike one I’ve ever seen before. It makes me feel like I’m getting a premium product, and that is a huge bonus for me when paying to me what is a lot for a headphone.


Cable:
This is a very nice cable and it feels like one of the nicer cables that I’ve used. The ear hooks are done well, there is a cable wrap on it, and it comes with A 3.5, 6.5 mm, and 4.4 mm connector. Which to me is a tiny bit overkill, but it adds value. It adds style and makes this cable feel like a premium fun experience. It comes with the 3.5 right hook cable inserted which is perfect as that’s my favorite connection style by far. It also hasn’t slipped out or has any issues.

Tip Selection - I’ve switched all my iem use to some new Spinfit iems! I know as the squidward meme would state, ohh so original, but they work for me, and feel great on my ears. I feel the selection of the dunu of tips is strong, fun, and noteworthy. It’s done by someone who cares about their product and not as an afterthought.

Quick-Fire Comparisons:

In this section, I'll quickly compare the MK2 to other relevant IEMs in its price bracket.

SA6 MK2 VS. Symphoium Meteor
Overall Tuning: SA6 MK2
Details: Tied

SA6 MK2 VS. Theiaudio Oracle MK II
Overall Tuning: SA6 MK2
Details: SA6 MK2

SA6 MK2 VS. Blessing 2 Dusk
Overall Tuning: Slight edge to Blessing 2 Dusk
Details: SA6 MK2

Bass:

The details of the base is strong and everything sounds right on it. The base seems well-controlled and fun. I don’t find it partially lean but it does feel a tiny bit light. I have found that while it doesn’t match my target amount of base, I do fully enjoy it. I feel percussions on it sound great.

Midrange:

The MK2 has smooth treble and good detail. Voices sound right, podcasts sound right, and voices sound supported with the base also being present. I don’t find it shouty at all but fun, smoothe and enjoyable. Podcasts and voices all sound great on it, and it has a good feel to it. Overall this iem is fresh, non fatiguing and just an easy clear listen. Vocals sound detailed and lifelike. Resolution is life-like, and it’s almost daunting comparing to my average speakers and car audio setup!

Treble:

The treble is a good part of this set and this iem has great detail and sparkle for me. No issues here. I’m able to game, listen to music, and a podcast all at once with this iem. It has incredible details that come across in the treble. Looking at the frequency response I would think it would sound neutral or boring without the 3k spike, but I enjoyed it. All the music that I listen to sounds great and I feel that it has a wide beautiful soundstage.

Value:

I find this iem is detailed and sounds great to me. While it’s hard to find value in an expensive iem, the case, the packaging is the nicest I’ve seen at the price. It’s like a 600-dollar iem with expensive packaging, rather than a company trying to save a few dollars on a cheap case, cable, or tips. Sometimes I feel companies almost don’t bother with packaging because this is such a good iem, there is no need to package it well with a good theme. This is not the case with Dunu SA6 MK 2.

Recommended EQ:

Giving this iem a slight base shelf in the subbase of 3 db makes it sound a little bit better to me. But it is a pleasing sound, with great detail and separation for me. I think the treble gains are pretty solid on this iem, but I could see how others might want to eq those a little especially in the 3k hump.

Gifting/who is it for:

While a 600 gift iem is a tough call, the Dunu if one could afford it would be a solid iem to gift to anyone. It’s a classy thoughtful presentation with unique tips, a beautiful cable, and functional and well presented box. I think anyone would like this iem presentation wise, and sound wise they would at least find it reasonable. The only concern is that the shell is a chonky boi, in that is does stick out some.

Pairing: I used a Quidelix 5k and a Topping DX1 dac through a SMSL SH-8s AMP. I had no pairing issues.

Summary:
I think we are all a winner here. This is a beautiful iem, with great accessories, and top notch sound. I enjoy the sound of it, find it comfortable, and just flat out good. I think if you want to talk bad about this iem, go ahead it’s your right. But it doesn’t have to alway be about ranking or determining what iem is best. But enjoying quality when you see it. Finding fun and enjoyment in the products we have is important. Some minor EQ and this can easily take on some ideal tuning.
This iem has been a joy and super fun for me as it is really nice fitting, a beautiful setup that fits my usage on my windows 10 PC, and has a strong and near perfect unfatiging sound that can last all day, with the details for me to multitask in gaming, voice, and music all at once.
Thanks for reading. Any feedback is welcome! I’ll be getting the Aful 8 soon, and a few other sets from HBB and the new Kiwi ears Quartet soon. Exciting times! I am also part of a few review loaner programs on head fi, that I can wait to share. Thanks for reading!

Last month DUNU introduced the all-new Studio SA6 MK2, a multi-BA IEM and a successor to the highly-regarded SA6. It is actually the third iteration of the Studio SA6 series after the success of the SA6 and the limited edition SA6 Ultra. The driver configuration is the same, but the looks are new, and also the pair is said to have upgraded internal wiring as well. It comes stock with DUNU’s Hulk Pro Mini cable. I bought the unit because I am a fan of the SA6 Ultra, so I grabbed one during the presale period. Let’s dive into the review.

Short Disclaimer:-

I bought the SA6 MK2 from HiFiGo. The unit was purchased as a pre-sale unit, now it is available through their store at 579$, you can check out more information on the link below(non-affiliated).

https://hifigo.com/products/dunu-sa6-mkii-iems

You guys can also watch the review video on the DUNU SA6 MK2 on my YouTube channel from the link below.


Unboxing:-

DUNU SA6 MK2 comes in a simple package. You get an orange-colored outer sleeve. Inside we have the pair, a newly designed customized carry case, Hulk Pro Mini cable with 3.5mm and 4.4mm plugs, and a bunch of ear tips including the XL size S&S eartips from DUNU.

Design & Build Quality:-

DUNU SA6 MK2 is quite nicely built. The wooden face covers have a strong grainy textured finish and a hint of orange color on the side. The shells sit comfortably into my ears and provide me with a very comfortable fit and isolation. The Hulk Pro Mini stock cable is also of superb quality.

Powering the DUNU SA6 MK2:-

SA6 MK2 can be powered very easily. It has high sensitivity and can be driven easily off any given source. It worked well with Sony WM1A(generation 1), Shanling M7, and even with straight Macbook 3.5mm output as well.

Sound Impressions:-

Being a fan of the Ultra’s, I was super excited to try out the SA6 MK2. My excitement was satisfied when the first time I listened to the pair. It had the charming midrange of the Studio SA6 series, smoother treble response, and a slightly added punch to the lower end. The overall sound response with the SA6 MK2 has a clean and refined presentation. The lower end sounds rich and dynamic. I won’t call it to have a heavy bass response, but the SA6 MK2 packs enough to complement the other frequencies and also deliver a fast and quick punchiness.

Midrange is where all the charm is for the SA6 MK2. The pair sounds simply wonderful, it’s rich, it’s clean, it’s well-textured. Both male and female vocals have a very lovely tone and timbre. They sound rich and natural. Female vocals are a bit more pronounced especially on the S&S tips. Nothing offensive though. Instruments are very well-separated and have good air between them. The pair doesn’t sound congested and keeps up the pace even with fast tracks.

Treble is nicely done here, it’s slightly smoother than the SA6 Ultra and has a revealing nature. I won’t call it an analytical set, but the SA6 MK2 has an excellent amount of details. The lovely midrange gives the pair a smooth musical tone.

Technically, SA6 MK2 is quite imaging, it has nicely done staging which is both wide and airy. The added punch in the lower end also adds a bit of depth compared to the SA6 Ultra. SA6 Mk2 has quite good imaging and layering capabilities. Listening to busy tracks on the SA6 MK2 like Billie Jean by MJ, Dani California by RHCP, and regional Bollywood music, feel clean and precise. There is no congestion at all.

Tuning Switch On:-

There’s a tuning switch on the SA6 MK2(similar to the Ultra and the OG SA6). It adds a tad bit more punch to the lower end when turned on.

Final Words:-

I personally love the SA6 MK2, it’s a fantastic pair that is both beautifully built and has an excellent sound as well. It has been my daily driver ever since I got the pair by my side. I hope you guys like this quick and short review of mine, you guys can go and check out my complete review on Youtube over here.

Disclaimer:​

I purchased this unit from Hifigo with a discount in exchange for my honest review. These thoughts are my own! Come read the rest of my reviews at www.audionotions.com!

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WHO THIS UNIT IS FOR:​

• Those looking for a very smooth and laid-back listen
• Fans of the SA6 looking for an upgrade and who weren’t able to buy the Ultra.
• Those looking for a set with fantastic techs
• Those who are looking for an expansive stage and presentation
• Those looking for one of the best all-rounders available!

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WHO THIS UNIT ISN’T FOR​

• Timbre-heads
• Those who prefer more forward vocals
• Those who prefer a more intimate stage
• Those looking for a more natural/organic listen

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Introduction​

As a fan of the previous two SA6 models, I was eager to get my hands on the MK2 when it was announced. The original SA6 has been a favorite in the audiophile community for what seems like ages and the Ultra took the world by storm late last year, competing with much more expensive IEMs for a fraction of the price – only being hindered by the limited nature of the release, with only 300 units available world wide. In the month since the announcement of the MK2, there has been much speculation (and in some cases drama). Is the MK2 basically an Ultra released for the masses? Will it be an improvement over the Ultra? I just had to find out for myself!

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Build, Fit, Accessories​

It will come to no surprise to those familiar with the original SA6 and SA6 Ultra that the build and fit of the MK2 is excellent. Included in the small box is a wide assortment of ear tips and unlike some other companies that don’t include any usable tips, some of the tips included in with the MK2 are actually among my favorites.

The cable included is the Hulk Pro Mini, a modular termination cable using robust Dunu’s Q-Lock system. Of the cables included with all of the SA6 models, this one is probably my favorite. Yes, it is technically the cheapest cable of the bunch, but it’s significantly less stiff and heavy, which makes it much more usable and comfortable.

The SA6 and Ultra shared the same shell, an incredibly well built, semi-custom molded resin shell that quite frankly was among the best fitting IEM shells I’ve tried. When it was revealed that the MK2 would use a newly designed and larger shell, I was skeptical and worried it might be a step back from the fit of the previous two models. Thankfully my fears were unfounded and the fit of the MK2 is actually an improvement and I’d venture to say it is probably the best fitting IEM I’ve tried to date! Of course, as with all things related fit, your mileage my vary. I did have my wife try these and she was able to fit these with no issues with her much smaller ears.

Also, for those of you who see a full-BA set and run for the hills because of vacuum and pressure build issues – fret not! These use a vented woofer which relieves pressure and prevents the IEMs from sealing too aggressively!

As with previous SA6 models, there is a randomized aspect to the faceplates and each unit will be unique! I think it is a handsome looking IEM, with a natural piece of hardwood embedded in resin!

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Overall Sound​

In a nutshell the MK2 is a very laid back listen. Following in the footsteps of the previous models, the tuning on the SA6 MK2 is a flavor of neutral with a U-shaped frequency response – the bass and treble regions are well extended and elevated. When done right, this generally lends to a very clean and uncolored listen. The interesting thing about the MK2, and to a lesser extent the SA6 and Ultra, is that the upper-mid/lower-treble regions are dialed down. This is the region that I like to think of as the shout region. On the MK2, this tuning leans even further into the laid-back aspect of the previous models.

As a result, the MK2 is a very relaxed listen while still maintaining quite a bit of articulation and an excellent amount of air and sparkle.

The “Atmospheric Immersion” switch is basically a bass-boost switch. When turned off, you get a similar bass tuning to the Ultra. Turned on, the MK2 gains a nice heft and body to the sound.

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Bass​

Despite being a full balanced armature set, and contrary to the common belief that BA bass is bad compared to DD, the bass on the MK2 is quite fantastic. One of the things I wished the previous models had was just a touch more bass emphasis, and Dunu delivered! The bass has is a good amount of impact and tactility as well – there is a nice physicality to the bass. With the Atmospheric Switch turned on, it rumbles, slams, and punches on demand, while still being very well textured, delivering tons of detail.

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Mids​

As with the previous models, mids are where folks will either love or dislike this tuning. The tuning of the SA6 models have been vaguely the tuning of some flagship/TOTL level IEMs like the Anole VX and to a certain extent the 64Audio U12T with tamer pinna gains and dialed down upper-mids/lower treble. For the OG SA6, this was part of the magic of the IEM, making it a smooth and relaxed set while still maintaining clarity through the mids. The Ultra model took that a half step further, taming that area slightly but still tastefully, and the MK2 takes yet another half step (perhaps a bit too much). Many will absolutely love this, but as a self-professed timbre-head and someone who prefers a natural/realistic presentation, this unfortunately might have taken it slightly too far for my tastes. The toned down upper-mids and lower-treble mean that certain instruments that are quite prominent in a lot of my library (classical, jazz, folk, etc) take a presence hit. For example, violins which are generally emphasized in orchestral performances can lose a bit of presence and get lost in the mix. The same applies to female vocals. This is not to say that they lack separation, however. Each individual instrument and voice is still fairly well separated, however, the presentation isn’t as I’d expect. It’s almost as if all instruments and voices are equally distant, rather than vocals and some instruments being more forward. Nonetheless, mids are crystal clear with a good amount of detail pickup and resolution.

---

Treble​

Upper treble performance and extension is excellent – there is plenty of sparkle and air. The MK2 is a very articulate IEM that will likely satisfy most people. At the same time, there is no harshness or sibilance to be heard. Transients are crisp and the notes are clear, which helps improve instrument separation. Cymbal hits, for example, sound realistic and not overly harsh or emphasized.

My nitpick here is that lower-treble is a little bit tame for my tastes for the same reasons as previously mentioned regarding the upper-mids. However, I can see why this tuning might make sense – it prevents shoutiness and harshness and adds to the laid-back character of this IEM.

---

Technicalities​

Details and Resolution: The MK2 is quite a detailed set and the level of resolution competes well with sets costing much more – definitely above average for the price point and there are some kilobucks that would pale in comparison.

Soundstage and Imaging: Arguably the most impressive aspect of the MK2 is the very large stage, it’s almost expansive. Imaging is decent as well – pretty much on par or slightly above average for the price. The interesting about the image is that it is out of head. You can tell the location of the instruments fairly easily, however, it is a flatter image that if I am to nitpick, lacks a slight bit of depth and layering.

Dynamics: Sets with good dynamics can almost seemingly come to life, portraying nuances in volume differences more clearly, while sets with poor dynamics can sound flat and lifeless to me. The MK2 is a fairly dynamic set and I’d argue that they are above average for the price range. Two things that I find impact how dynamic a transducer sounds to my ear are transients and decay. Transients being the initial attack on the sound – the burst of energy that adds a bit of crispness to the start of notes. Decay being what follows that initial attack, specifically how quickly or slowly the sound trails and returns to the base level. Both of these are things the MK2 does exceptionally well, decay specifically.

Timbre: Timbre is not the strongest point of the SA6 MK2. The timbre of certain instruments and vocal ranges can sound a little unnatural – almost like there is a slight hollowness and lack of presence for those instruments. Most people will not take issue to this, however, so please take this with a grain of salt. Also, this can be fixed very easily with EQ to slightly bump up the upper-mids and lower-treble.

---

Conclusion​

Dunu has once again shown us why the SA6 has been a perennial favorite in this hobby. With the smooth and laid-back tuning, it’s so easy to just pop these in my ears and just listen to the music. But at the same time, it is also quite capable of a more analytical listen, with above average technical performance. A lot of folks were wondering whether the MK2 would just be a non-limited version of the Ultra or whether it would be an outright upgrade. The answer to this question lies somewhere between the two. There are a lot of similarities between the two but also some differences. The MK2 does have more bass quantity and is a slight improvement over the Ultra in stage and resolution, but there are folks who will find the tonal balance of the Ultra to be more appealing.

Overall I do think the technical performance of the MK2 is nothing short of excellent. Compared to the Ultra, it is a step forward in techs, however, it does take a slight step back in timbre and tonal balance (this is subjective though and you may actually prefer the tonal balance of the MK2).

That said, they are similar enough where I would be hard pressed to recommend an Ultra owner go out and buy an MK2. But if you weren’t able to get your hands on the Ultra, the MK2 is an excellent choice!

"The starting point of all achievement is desire."
--Napoleon Hill, American writer and author of Think and Grow Rich.

Click to expand...

That's how I tried to do my best on doing some product reviews on other portable audio devices for the past months and yet I'm still yearning and having some lingering desires that I really want to test the DUNU SA6 again. And here it is, the Gods of Audiophilia smile upon me and grant my craving not just only to test the DUNU SA6 but its evolved variant which makes me even more fortunate (though I'm quite a sceptical and very irreligious person).



We already know the reputation of DUNU as a company, so let's cut to the chase on it as I will pinpoint more on its tonal and technical specifications regarding this particular product. Be prepared as this product assessment might even take a bit longer to read.

This is DUNU SA6 MK.II, this is DUNU's latest flagship offering in the midrange segment. This is a successor model of the highly-regarded SA6 regular with some improvements of tuning and design of its shells. As far as I know, there are two follow-up variants of the SA6, this unit and the slightly re-tuned and a collaboration project with another prominent audio reviewer albeit it's more likely a limited edition, The SA6 Ultra. Like its predecessor, it is still an all-BA (balanced armature) driver set with the same quantity, but undergoes some tweaks and rework on its tuning to make it tonally more superior to surpass the tonal capabilities of its erstwhile elder sister.



As I mentioned a while ago about the same type of transducers that this unit has that was also implemented with the original SA6, The SA6 MK.II has a total of 6 BAs (balanced armature drivers) on each side. These balanced armature drivers are produced by some recognisable names on audio solutions, Knowles and Sonion respectively. The custom Sonion AcuPass Vented Dual Woofer BA (either based on the 31-38 series or on the more common 23 series) handles the low frequency while it uses a dual custom Knowles BAs for midrange and another dual custom high frequency tweeter from Knowles. There's also a small PCB electronic frequency crossover that will give a distinct separation and clarity for each particular frequency, and that said PCB is also connected to the bass toggle switch. It is also noted that the drivers also connect in acoustic tubes in three parts towards the nozzle. The internal wirings that are used to connect between the components are made of high quality, single crystal silver plated copper of high purity.



The shell chassis of DUNU SA6 MK.II are made of high quality German-made, medical-grade and skin-friendly acrylic resin. Then its faceplate panels are made of laminated wood with resin along its contrasting different tones and hues of brown colour that reminds me of a sandstone and amber stone which makes it look very premium and classy with the silver outline print of "6" at the left channel and the with the same silver outline print of the brand "DUNU" on the other channel as it emanates its exquisitely look, sophistication and elegant build yet lightweight. It takes an ergonomic UIEM-style form of its shells and has smooth contours with a stabilising fin for stable insertion on the concha. At the upper part of the shells of SA6 MK.II, there's the bass toggle switches where you can activate to boost some bass in your listening session. DUNU SA6 MK.II has a recessed bi-pin connector which gives a stronger and secured interlocking with its cable and it is also noted that there's a vent hole under it.




The shells of SA6 MK.II are on the medium-sizes and when it comes fitting and comfort, it really secures firmly on my lug holes without any unwanted issues like ear fatigue or discomforts as I've actually been wearing it for almost 12 hours. It also has a good seal and noise isolation as it blocks some external noise from the outside surroundings.



The stock cable of DUNU SA6 MK.II is quite an interesting inclusion that It was marketed as DUNU Hulk Pro Mini. You can purchase it separately either from the DUNU website or other online audio vendors and it is available in two standard pin-types, 0.78mm and MMCX. It's a 4-strand, single crystal copper cable with each wire shielded with aluminium foil and insulated with TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane). This cable is also feature's DUNU's proprietary Q-lock Plus modular termination plug system which has an L-shaped, more steady on interlocking between the cable and termination plug and more quicker of switching plugs which make it even more adaptable depends of interface of multimedia devices like DAPs, smartphones and desktop DAC/amps. It includes 3 types of termination plug; 2.5mm balanced, 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm but SA6 MK.II's doesn't have a 2.5mm balanced termination plug.




The product package of DUNU SA6 MK.II is well-executed and its inclusions are properly curated inside the box. It has a medium-size rectangular box for an IEM and its cardboard sleeve has a different tone and accents of orange colour with a Hi-Res certification print at the top-left and model series print at the front part while at the rear, there you can find the basic specification of this product along its company and factory address.



Here are the contents you find inside of the packaging box:

■ a pair of DUNU SA6 MK. II IEMs

■ DUNU Hulk Pro Mini modular cable.

■ 4 pairs of DUNU S&S ear tips of different standard sizes.

■ 3 pairs of DUNU "Candy" ear tips of different standard sizes

■ a pair of memory foam ear tips.

■ 4 pairs of light grey-coloured narrow-bored ear tips of different standard sizes.

■ a 4.4mm balanced output modular termination plug

■ a 6.35mm adapter plug for line-level audio, microphones, electric guitars and loud speakers.

■ a cleaning tool kit.

■ A clam shell-shaped, PU Leather IEM case.

■ some paperworks like Q.C. stub and instruction manual.




With a resistance rating of 24 ohms and 114 dB of sensitivity level, DUNU SA6 MK.II has an excellent scalability on power output. I've tested it on my LG phones, DAPs and USB DAC/Amp dongles. Even a decent amplitude scale level (around 30-40%) will be able to amplify the SA6 MK.II to have a full-range sound with good dynamics.



As for tonal quality, like its quintessential older predecessor, SA6 MK.II retains the balanced-neutral tuning, a slightly elevated bass then a linear and textured midrange and treble. But if the bass boost switch is activated, then it gives a mild U-shaped sonic profile while retaining its neutral tuning.

Here are the sound characteristics in which I observe and listen to within its frequency range spectrum.


LOWS/BASS:

The bass quality of DUNU SA6 MK.II is punchy, articulate and quite vital enough that it delivers an engaging and sufficiently dynamic sounding as I expected from a Sonion BA woofer. It focuses more on mid bass rather than sub bass which I really prefer.

On the sub bass, it has a decent rumble coming from the reverberations of synthesisers, low-toned bass guitar and drum machines from the sub bass-focus audio tracks; either its a synth-pop, classic rock, electronica and old-school hip-hop playlist tracks.

Like I mentioned before, the mid bass is the focal point of SA6 MK.II as it has an adequate texture to give a sufficient note weight on specific instruments like violas, bass kick drums, bass guitar and bass-baritone vocals. Violas have a warm and sensuous sound to give that rich and dark timbre. Bass drum kicks have these resonant and gloomy sounds on them on every attack that reverberates and resounds. While on bass guitar, it has an earthy and sombre sound on every growl and distinct damp sound on either from fretless, slapping and other finger techniques on bass guitar plucks. Bass-baritone vocals have enough heft and depth to give that particular wool-like and murky sound from well-known bass-baritones singers like Barry White, Andrew Eldritch and Peter Steele of Type O Negative.

Switching on the bass toggle will give some substantial boost in low range to have a tad warmer sound. The bass register seems to be well-controlled and doesn't muddle up on other frequencies to have a decent clean bass. Take note that this type of bass will not satisfy the ears of bass head maniacs.


MIDRANGE:

As I remember that this was the strongest aspect of the original DUNU SA6's and it seems the SA6 MK.II inherited some of it with some modification to make it more energetic and even more open-sounding. The mids of DUNU SA6 MK.II is textured, clean, detailed and transparent sounding. It gives an accurate timbre on both vocals and instruments alike on how it sounds very natural and captivating to gain your attention on listening to them.

Due to textured lower midrange with enough warmth, the male vocals have an adequate strong, power and guttural quality. Baritone voices have a good rendition and projection on them either the smooth and agile of lyrical baritones like Scott Weiland of Stone Temple Pilots and Lenny Kravitz or more authoritative, warmer and velvety dramatic types like David Bowie and Jimmy Hendrix. Countertenors have these light, penetrating and a bit bright tonal modulation of their falsetto like Thomas Otten and James Bowman on their rendition of Handel's Ombra Mai Fu or modern ones like Yannis Papadopoulos of Beast In Black band. And then on tenor singers, modern ones like Dio, Freddie Mercury (his highest vocal range) and Stevie Wonder have the vocal agility of being dazzling, bright and clear sound on them. On the operatic side of tenor, either on lyrical or spinto, they have these warmer, graceful and brassy characteristics from the likes of Placido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti.

On female vocals, the manifestation of contraltos like Tracy Chapman, Toni Braxton and Annie Lennox have these smoky, rich and heavily chesty vocals on them. Mezzo-sopranos have smooth, velvety and rounder vocal quality that makes them very hypnotic and luscious to listen with the likes of Andrea Corr, Dolores O'Riordan of the Cranberries, Sharon Den Adel of Within Temptation (I love her voice in the track "The Cross") and Enya. On Sopranos, I will divide it into three sub-categories; lyrical, dramatic and coloratura. On the lyrical type, it has silky and sweet characteristics like Alison Krauss and Björk, then on dramatic types like Tarja Turunen, Mariah Carey and Eva Cassidy have these very emotive, rich and silvery sound and last but not the least, the airiness, crystalline and suppleness of coloratura vocals like Diana Damrau and Olga Peretyatko to have bright, energetic and well-extended voices.

As for instruments, they all sound very natural and quite realistic playback on delivering such tonal and timbre accuracy. I start with woodwind instruments, saxophones sound very lively, sonorous and reedy, and the flutes seem to have light, wind-like and ethereal sound. On brass instruments like trombones, trumpet and horns, It does have an eruptive and "dramatic-like" sound on trombones while on the trumpets, they have a substantial, brilliant and penetrating sound and horns have a sustaining sonorous sound at the low register to bright sounding on the upper register. Percussives like toms and snare drums have a penetrating, resonant and rumbling sound on every hit, another percussive instrument that I rarely mentioned was the glockenspiel which has a silvery, striking and shimmering sound. Then celestas the bell-like and ethereal sound to give that "heaven" and royal court ball vibe while the piano has a full range to have warm, lush on the low note to vivid and bright on high note. Strings like acoustic guitars have a buttery to crisper sound on them and more vibrant, visceral and intense on electric guitar riffs especially on rock and metal genre. Then the violins, which are also a string instrument, have a fuller, lively and sparkling sound on them to give a more emotional engagement and solemn atmosphere.

As a midcentric listener like myself, like its original sister, SA6 MK.II delivers such exquisite and well-delineated midrange registers that I can pronounce without hesitation as closer to perfection.


HIGHS/TREBLE:

In my hearing, the treble quality is quite balanced, with ample brightness and yet very airy which contrasts with the original SA6. The upper midrange seems to have smoothen a bit while retaining its clarity on instruments and female vocals. I don't hear any harshness nor sibilance as it remains pristine and transparent. There is some hint of elevation on the presence to the brilliance part of treble as it gives better details, more air and a tad sense of spaciousness.

Cymbals have a glistening sound with a good sizzle extension but not in an exaggerated manner. The sounds of Hi-hats were depicted in a life-like sound with a shortened dry and dull sounding to give that distinctive "chick" sound.


SOUNDSTAGE, IMAGING AND OTHER TECHNICALITIES:

The overall sound field dimensions are quite spacious as I perceive them within my head room. It has an above average to wide when it comes to width, a good and immersive depth from front to the rear if I was at the center and above average on the height reach. In general, If I try to estimate it, I feel that I was in a medium-size theatre hall.

The imaging aptness of DUNU SA6 MK.II is also impressive as it gives me a more engaging experience as if I was in a 3D-like spatial point. I can clearly hear and even pinpoint the exact location of instruments and vocals within my aural sphere. Separation is even impressive as it does have a good spacing between the elements and when it comes to layering, I was able to discern the orderly arrangement on each instrument and vocals with their specific frequency and dynamic tonal layer within the sonic canvas especially on orchestral and jazz tracks.

Resolution capability on DUNU SA6 is also remarkable in how it presents its macro-dynamics and micro-details. Even for all-BA set, it has strong fundamentals on rendering its macro-dynamics and extracting some infos on the subtleties and nuances from audio track data with a sufficiently sharp definition. The tonal profile of this set is still on the balanced and natural side with a miniscule amount of colouration.

The cohesion of its all BA drivers is already expected to an premium balanced armatures along with DUNU's decades of expertise that it sill have a snappier, faster transient and almost zero distortion rating on how it delivers an envelopment of a sound quality.



PEER COMPARISONS:


DUNU SA6 Regular

● This erstwhile archetype has the same transducers set-up, it has a slightly smaller size profile of its shell with different design of its faceplate (if my memory serves right). It also has a bass toggle switch. Its stock cable is actually good and it is also modular but compared to the SA6 MK.II's current stock cable, you will definitely feel the improvement.

● With its tuning that still resonates with me to this day. It is definitely a balance-neutral tuning. It has less emphasis on bass compare to the SA6 MK.II but it is still punchy, a more slightly textured mids, which give the best vocal and instruments detail on its class, and a smoother yet detailed midrange but it is noticeable that it is less sparkling and even less airy compare to DUNU SA6 MK.II.

● Overall, they almost have the same technical performance but DUNU SA6 regular is rather to have an above average /speaker stage width.



AUDIOSENSE AQ7 PRO/INSIGHT:

● Its shell chassis is made of high quality resin and it is quite a bit larger. The drivers of this set consist of 1 dynamic driver and 6 Knowles BA and it uses an MMCX connector as its interlocking mechanism. Both have similar quality and quantity of product packaging and inclusion of accesories but its cable isn't a modular one.

● Both sets have a leaning towards a neutral sound profile but AQ7 PRO is more of a "reference-neutral" sound signature. It has a tighter yet dynamic bass response and more emphasis on midrange to treble. Midrange is also clean and even more transparent compared to MK.II but the latter sounds more natural than dry and analytical AQ7. Treble is a bit brighter on AQ7 PRO and even a tad airier.

■ They both have similar technical performance but AQ7 PRO has a wider soundstage and an even more sharper detail. There are some reports that AQ7 PRO will give some driver flex will give you some minor occlusion effect.



EFFECT AUDIO X ELYSIAN GAEA.

■ This is indeed a TOTL one and almost thrice expensive. The drivers set-up of this unit consists of 1 DD and 4 Sonion BAs. The shell chassis is quite similar in build and construction with SA6 MK.II. It is an Effect Audio product so expect a high quality stock cable but take note it has a proprietary connector.

■ GAEA has a Harmanish-type of tuning, a more U-shaped sound signature. It has more prominent sub bass and at least it has an ample mid bass unlike most Harman-type of tuning. Midrange is a bit recessed yet clean sounding but on the upper mids, it is quite forward on female vocals albeit there are some instances that they are presented a bit too much. Treble seems to be on a brighter side, indeed very detailed but I noticed that it's on the borderline of being sibilant.

■ Technicalities-wise, I consider the GAEA to have an above average rating. It has an above average sound/speaker stage width, depth and height. It has a good separation and layering though its imaging presentation is rather two-dimensional. Resolving on dynamics are on par with SA6 MK.II but GAEA is a bit unnatural in my ears.


As I put my conclusion on assessing the DUNU SA6 MK.II. It seems that DUNU truly proves that once again that it can deliver a product that punches above beyond its price. DUNU SA6 MK.II is just an exceptional IEM earphone that surely outperforms most of its competitors within the midrange category and even to some TOTLs out there with its superb tuning and competent technical capabilities.

But the big question that is floating around the audio enthusiasts sphere right now, does it truly outperforms the original SA6? Yes and No. Yes, just because DUNU improves the quantity of bass, smoothen up some upper mids frequency and even it improves its technical abilities. No as if it adjusting some emphasis on some frequency regions to give a bit colouration on tuning therefore it is less neutral sounding, The tonality of the original SA6 was already impressive and still was my reference point of a balanced-neutral, midcentric tuning in the midrange sets. Overall, DUNU speaks for itself and SA6 MK.II is the testament of it.

Also, please heck out my previous review on other DUNU products:

●DUNU KIMA


DUNU SA6 MK.II is now available in HIFIGO, you can check the link below if you are interested to purchase them out.


◆◆HIFIGO (Unaffiliated Link)◆◆

SPECIFICATION:

MODEL: DUNU SA6 MK.II
IMPEDANCE: 24Ω
SENSITIVITY: 114dB
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 5Hz – 40KHz
CABLE LENGTH: 1.2M
PIN TYPE: 2-PIN CONNECTOR (0.78MM)
PLUG TYPE: 3.5mm
DRIVER UNIT(S): (6) DYNAMIC DRIVER


Some Tracks Tested: ( * = 16-bit FLAC, ** = 24-bit FLAC, *'* = MQA, '*' = DSD, *'= .WAV)

Alison Krauss -When You Say Nothing At All *
Jade Wiedlin - Blue Kiss**
Led Zeppelin - When The Levee Breaks **
Mountain - Mississippi Queen *
Queen - Killer Queen **
Guns N' Roses - Patience *'*
Eric Clapton - Tears in Heaven '*'
Sergio Mendes- Never Gonna Let You Go '*'
Pearl Jam - Daughter **
Roselia - Hidamari Rhodonite *
Assassin - Fight (To Stop The Tyranny)*
Celtic Frost- Visual Aggression *
New Order - Blue Monday *
The Corrs- What Can I do (unplugged version) *
Jimi Hendrix Experience - Voodoo Child *
The Madness- Buggy Trousers *
Metallica - Motorbreath **
Mariah Carey- Always Be My Baby *
Destiny's Child - Say My Name *
Malice Mizer- Au Revoir *
Mozart - Lacrimosa *
New York Philharmonic Orchestra - Dvorak- Symphony 9 " From the New World." *
Eva Cassidy - Fields of Gold (Sting cover)*
Michael Jackson - Give In To Me *
Exciter - Violence and Force *
Diana Krall - Stop This World **
Debbie Gibson - Foolish Beat *'*
The Sisters of Mercy – Lucretia My Reflection**
Suzanne Vega – Luka **
Lauren Christy – Steep *
Ottoman Mehter - Hucum Marsi *
Diana Damrau - Mozart: Die Zauberflöte*



P.S.

I am not affiliated to DUNU nor receive monetary incentives and financial gains as they provide me a review unit for an exchange of factual and sincere feedback from yours truly.

Once again, I would like to send my gratitude to HIFIGO especially to MS. YUMU SONG and MS. LVY YAN. And I also say thanks to NEIL NIÑO CLARK a.k.a @koyawmohabal for providing this review unit. I truly appreciate their generosity and trust towards me and other reviewers.

Introduction
It has been quite awhile since the SA6 Ultra was released and boy was it a ride. By the time reviews have poured in and praises have been thrown back-and-forth, the limited 300 quantity have sold out in about 72 hours. Everyone have been clamoring for one (including yours truly) and resell prices have been absurd. Yet, luckily a set has found its way from an unfulfilled order and it was a penultimate combination of relief and ecstacy, the Ultra lived up to the hype. Months have passed, it was no secret with all the criticisms as to why it was just a limited release and DUNU just wouldn't budge to make more, though there have been hints that they are taking the opinions and reviews into consideration for a future product. Alas, here we are now - the SA6 MK2 has been announced. Right out of the gate, it impressed me at first listen and I'm here to tell those who missed the Ultra - if you regret passing up on the predecessor then this second coming does not disappoint. Best of all, it's not going to be a limited edition anymore.

Thanks to @HiFiGo and @dunu for giving me the opportunity to experience the early batch as one of the Ultra buyers and for sharing our inputs and feedback. It was such a pleasure and it is much appreciated that they took into consideration our suggestions and recommendations - especially with the XL size S&S eartips. Read on.



Packaging
I'll make it short with the words on this - it comes in an orange-themed slide out box. Upon opening the inner black box, you are then welcomed by the luxurious fliptop case with blue leather lining and 2 separate boxes with the cable and accessories. I am putting below the link for a visual unboxing, please check my video here -

Build
The set itself looks well built, shiny, and very premium with a bit of transparency that gives a peek into its interior. The faceplate is a combination of wood and resin that gives it a more luxurious feel compared to its predecessors. It also features the same Hulk Pro Mini cable that was included in the Ultra sans the 2.5mm connector due to lack of demand for it and to cut down its cost, which is a welcome consideration from the Ultra's retail price. One of the main differences though is the size of the MK2 compared to the Ultra. It has been mentioned that the changes were more to the size of the faceplate to make it look more like a custom IEM and that the rest of the IEM retains the same scale and improved fit. For me, the MK2 fits me better than the Ultra with less fiddling as well though as we know fit is subjective and I will let you be the judge





Sound and Comparison to the Ultra
I will leave the graphs to the measurebators. Right off the bat, the MK2 for me is impressive and an improvement of the Ultra in all the right places. It is basically the Ultra with a punchier bass (which some find to be lacking prior at the '1' switch setting) and a more airy treble plus a bit of sparkle that is more engaging and livelier but never harsh or sibilant. None of the boost on both ends of the spectrum hinders the smooth mids response that seem to convey that holographic imaging and staging similar to flagship sets such as the Andromedas. The MK2 comes with top-tier kilobuck-level resolution, with details coming out even better, if not the same as the Ultra. This is good news to those who wanted the Ultra or the OG but did not pull the trigger as I really don't see any reason anymore to pick up the OG with these advancements. If you want to go crazy, you can turn the bass (or atmospheric as they call it) switch to 'ON' for even more bass quantity but I do not recommend it as it gives extra bass bloat and muddies the mids a bit, which is in contrast to the Ultra hence, the reason I'm keeping both sets just because they're still a bit different in this aspect.



Comparison with Variations
If you ever find yourself thinking of getting the Moondrop Variations at SRP, the extra cost of the MK2 is more than worth the price of admission to a top-tier set. With the mids alone, the SA6 MK2 trumps the Variations as well as with detail retrieval. At $500-$600 bracket, I don't find the reason to get the Variations over the SA6 MK2 as the performance margin difference is quite high. The SA6 MK2 already gives you a taste of top-tier performance of $700-kilobuck sets. With this, I'd only take the Variations as alternative if priced below the $500 mark.



Options
It may be my unanimous recommendation below the kilobuck level aside from the IE600 as my choice for v-shape. If ever as a step up, you may just consider going straight to the Thieaudio Monarch MKII if you fancy the neutral w/ bass boost signature as compared to the SA6 MK2 - which is neutral veering to slight v-shape/u-shape. The Monarch MKII has it beat in one word - timbre. The Monarch MKII just sounds more correct and is a vocal specialist. Otherwise, the SA6 MK2 as I've mentioned gives you a taste of the top-tier flagships overall or might just be endgame sound for some, if there is any in this hobby. The Monarch MKII also has a grander presentation with everything else despite the intimate vocals compared to the SA6 MK2, which is a smoother, detailed albeit less grainy listen but I can consider both as versatile with a lot of genres except for maybe hiphop and EDM for some. Worth noting that the SA6 MK2 is not vocal-forward as well with some genres, sometimes letting the bass energy or cymbal shimmers lead the music at times.

Conclusion
I'll just go ahead and say it - the SA6 MK2 is deserving of a blind-buy consideration. Its improvements over the OG SA6 as well as the Ultra is noteworthy of hard to beat value in anything below the kilobuck price range, not to mention negates any reason to get the OG other than the smaller form factor. I also can't find another set (yet) more detailed in its tier. It's hard to nitpick on something that I believe will not disappoint the majority aside from those looking for a more natural-sounding listen without overlooking it as an all-BA set. Good job DUNU on making a follow-up to an already great set!



Sidenotes:
Listened via the Sony ZX-707, Sony ZX-300, and Questyle M15 separately in both SE and BAL configurations with S&S eartips over the course of multiple genres across FLACs (16bit&24bit) and streaming (Tidal). I have to say since this is quite a sensitive and easy-to-drive set, I had instances that listening via SE sounded cleaner and less crowded, less grainy than via BAL though BAL usually produced more impact and energy/excitement in its presentations. But no hiss. Varying results are minimal but noticeable being the SA6 MK2 a tad source-dependent. As of this writing, it is set to retail at SRP $579.

In a world where IEMs come and go, the original Dunu SA6 has managed to defy the odds and remained one of the most loved IEMs in its price bracket. But despite being highly praised, it still has flaws that have kept it from claiming the top spot in its price range. Enter the SA6 Ultra – a near-perfect version that addresses all of the issues of the original. Alas, only 300 units were made, and what was supposed to be the long-awaited upgrade ultimately left those who missed out craving yet again.

Now, the anticipation is finally over with the release of the SA6 MK2. A version said to surpass even the Ultra. Will it deliver on that promise? Let's find out.



General Information

Driver Configuration- 6BA
Price- $579

Overview & Comparison

The SA6 MK2 is largely similar to the Ultra version, and even Dunu has stated the MK2 takes heavy inspiration from the former. But before we get into that comparison (mostly because you can't buy the Ultra anymore), let's compare the MK2 to the original SA6. The MK2 has improved midrange balance and smoothness and a significant boost in treble air which makes the MK2 noticeably more detailed and information-rich than the original. The bass remains essentially the same. Now for the burning question, is the MK2 better than the original? The answer is a resounding yes. It's an upgrade in nearly every way. Better midrange, treble, details, and naturalness. If you're looking for an upgrade to the SA6 and just missed your chance with the Ultra? Look no further than the SA6 MK2.



Now for those who already own the Ultra, is it worth taking a look at the MK2? This answer is less clear and more dependent on your taste.

The MK2 builds on the Ultra's smooth midrange with some notable changes. The MK2 has more bass and treble air than the Ultra and a slight upper-midrange reduction, giving the MK2 more of a "V" like sound than the Ultra. Now, I wouldn't call the MK2 a V-shape IEM (mild V-shape at most); it's just more V-shape when compared directly to the Ultra. The apparent improvement is in the air region, as more treble air makes the MK2 sound more detailed than the Ultra. Instruments are sparklier, and details are more forward while retaining the Ultra's smoothness. The bass is where most will decide based on their individual taste. If you feel the Ultra lacks mid-bass slam or is too "mid-centric" for you, I recommend switching to the MK2. If you prefer midrange over anything else, then stay with the Ultra. Again, the only clear upgrade is the MK2 sounds more detailed than the Ultra.



PS: The MK2 in stock mode has the same bass as the Ultra in bass mode. If you own the Ultra, you can test whether you prefer the MK2's bass. Now, the MK2 in bass mode has EVEN MORE bass (of course).



Sound Signature

Now that we have satisfied the SA6 fanbase, let's talk about SA6 MK2 for those who have never experienced the SA6 or Ultra.

The SA6 MK2 is a mild v-shape IEM with incredible balance across the frequency band and near top-tier detail delivery. Let's explore MK2's sound, starting with the bass.

Bass

The MK2's bass is strong, with a good mid-bass thump. Though it lacks the dynamic feeling of a decent dynamic driver, it delivers good bass for BA standards. Besides being powerful, the bass is well-controlled, with only a slight hint of warmth creeping into the lower mids. Usually, too much warmth can cause mud, but that's not the case here. The midrange is still clean, just a bit warm, which some prefer over an entirely clinical lower midrange.

Midrange

The MK2 has a tamer ear gain, or some will call it "anti-shout," which is very appropriate. The midrange is smooth and natural, without a hint of shout or thinness. Its focus on the lower midrange pair with an upper midrange reduction makes for a soothing and full yet natural listen. Besides the Harman-like or IEF-type midrange, this is the only other style of midrange I genuinely love. The same midrange is also in other versions of SA6 and some QDC IEMs, and even compared to those IEMs, the MK2 has one of the best implementations. The midrange does feel slightly behind the bass, but that's up to individual taste if it's a con or a pro.

Treble

The treble is my favorite part of this set. It's airy, sparkly, and highlights a lot of micro-nuances without coming across as harsh. It's not the smoothest treble out there, I can think of several IEMs with a truly smooth treble response, but the MK2 is not far behind. One step down from top-tier smoothness, but easily one of the most information-rich treble for its price.



Technical Performance

Details in the MK2 are abundant, almost to the point of being too much, and some may think so. Because the detail is presented very forwardly, some people who are more sensitive to treble might feel overwhelmed or "distracted." But for those seeking technicalities in this department, you'll be delighted with the amount of information thrown at you from the MK2.

Regarding note definition, the MK2 is above average; it's not end-game level incisiveness overall, but not less than similarly priced competitors.

Quick-Fire Comparisons

In this section, I'll quickly compare the MK2 to other relevant IEMs in its price bracket, plus the other SA6 models.

SA6 MK2 VS. SA6
Overall Tuning: SA6 MK2
Details: SA6 MK2

SA6 MK2 VS. SA6 ULTRA
Overall Tuning: SA6 ULTRA
Details: SA6 MK2

SA6 MK2 VS. Moondrop Variations
Overall Tuning: Tied
Details: SA6 MK2

SA6 MK2 VS. Mangird Xenns Top
Overall Tuning: Tied
Details: SA6 MK2



Conclusion

To answer the question at the beginning of the article. Does the SA6 MK2 deliver as a true upgrade to the original SA6? Again, the answer is yes. If you need an upgrade to your old SA6, this is it. Aside from that, is it a competitive IEM for its price? Again, the answer is yes for the same reason that made the Ultra such an excellent IEM. The MK2 shares those great Ultra qualities with more or less improvement in certain areas. In conclusion, Dunu not only delivered on its promise to the SA6 fanbase but also made an IEM that's highly competitive in its price—simply another homerun for team Dunu.