DUNU Titan S2

Dunu was the first Chinese manufacturer to produce high-quality earphones that could compete directly with mainstream brands like Sony, Sennheiser, and AKG. Since 1994, they’ve been crafting earphones that have received numerous prestigious awards.

The Titan is perhaps the oldest model in Dunu’s lineup—an earphone that has seen multiple revisions over the years and remains in production. The latest iteration, the Titan S2, offers a slightly different tuning compared to the Titan S.



Technical stuff

The Dunu Titan S2 is a single dynamic driver earphone featuring a composite diaphragm with a rigid dome and a flexible suspension surround, paired with a high-tension voice coil for enhanced performance.

The dome is crafted from a high-rigidity material with a high damping coefficient, complemented by a long-travel flexible surround. Additionally, Dunu has equipped the Titan S2 with dual chambers and a dual-magnetic circuit, optimizing driver efficiency for easy drivability and delivering stable output with low distortion.



Non Audio stuff

The ear shells are crafted from a high-density metal alloy and finished with a glossy chromium plating, offering both a premium appearance and enhanced resistance to wear and tear.

With a modern, futuristic aesthetic, the shells feature an angular design, asymmetrical lines, and a signature red dot at the center of the faceplate. While the Titan S2 isn't the most discreet IEM, it strikes a good balance—eye-catching without being overly flashy.

Though slightly heavier than average, the Titan S2’s shells are compact and ergonomically angled for a comfortable fit that doesn’t sit too deep in the ear canal. The weight is well-distributed, allowing for extended listening sessions without discomfort.



Cable and accessories

The Titan S2 comes with one of the best cables in its class—and beyond. It features a detachable 2-pin design with four cores made from a blend of OCC copper and silver-plated OCC copper for excellent signal transmission.

Dunu equips the cable with its patented Q-Lock swappable plug system, which combines a snap-in mechanism with a screw-down ring for a secure connection. The package includes both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced plugs for versatility across sources.

The cable’s outer layer is wrapped in a durable nylon mesh that reduces microphonics and boosts longevity. It’s lightweight, resistant to tangling, and an all-around pleasure to use.



Also included is a premium carrying case with a side zipper. It’s slightly on the larger side but spacious enough to hold the earphones along with a USB DAC dongle. For fit and sound customization, the Titan S2 includes four types of ear tips in various sizes.

Two sets are standard silicone tips—one for a balanced sound, the other for a slight bass emphasis. The remaining two are Dunu’s own designs: the S&S tips feature a straight-wall build to enhance soundstage and deliver studio-grade precision, while the Candy tips use flexible silicone and thickened ducts to improve support and boost vocal clarity.



Driving stuff

The Dunu Titan S2 has an impedance of 16 Ω and a sensitivity of 107dB/mW, making it very easy to drive. For instance, when paired with the FiiO M23, low gain on the balanced output provided more than enough power—without needing to push the volume past halfway.

Audio stuff

The Dunu Titan S2 offers a warmer, slightly less neutral tuning compared to the original Titan S. It delivers a touch of extra bass, a slightly relaxed upper midrange, and a bit more treble energy, creating a more engaging and musical sound profile.

The low-end features good sub-bass extension with a moderate bass lift that adds weight without overwhelming the mids or treble. While the tuning leans toward a more enjoyable, fun presentation, it still maintains enough balance to satisfy casual critical listening—though it doesn’t aim for strict tonal accuracy.

As an all-rounder, the Titan S2 performs impressively across a wide range of genres, handling everything from modern tracks to classical music with ease. While it may not be the perfect fit for every style, it never sounds off or fatiguing, making it a versatile and enjoyable choice for most listeners.

The Titan S2 delivers strong technical performance for its class. Bass is clean, tight, fast, and well-controlled, with a satisfying physical impact. While it may occasionally struggle with complex passages, it generally maintains good definition and texture, with minimal unwanted resonance or reverb. The sound has a full-bodied, weighty feel that creates an immersive, atmospheric presentation—never coming across as thin or dry.

The midrange is well-balanced, avoiding both noticeable recession and excessive upper midrange emphasis. Its tuning is on the safer side, allowing for fatigue-free listening even at higher volumes. Timbre is natural and organic, with a pleasing level of harmonic richness that brings music to life. While the Titan S2 might not be the most revealing IEM out there, it delivers more than enough clarity and detail, making up for any slight lack in transparency with its engaging, musical character.

The presence region is slightly lifted to provide just the right amount of clarity and definition, effectively balancing the enhanced bass and preventing the sound from becoming dark or muddy. The treble offers a touch of sparkle and energy, keeping the overall presentation clean and vibrant without veering into harshness or sharpness. It's a smooth, well-integrated tuning that blends seamlessly with the low end, resulting in a cohesive and laid-back sound signature that remains engaging and responsive.

While the treble isn’t harsh or fatiguing, it does exhibit a hint of metallic timbre and a touch of coarseness. That said, the treble textures carry enough weight to prevent cymbals and other high-frequency instruments from sounding thin or brittle. Detail retrieval is solid for its class, though the Titan S2 isn’t quite as resolving or transparent as the original Titan S.

The soundstage is wide and airy with a strong horizontal spread, though it lacks significant depth or layering. Still, imaging is precise, and the presentation remains open and uncongested—even during complex or busy passages.



Comparison stuff

As mentioned earlier, the Titan S has a more neutral tuning with better low-end tonal accuracy, but its more pronounced upper midrange can become fatiguing with certain tracks.

The Titan S is better suited for critical listening due to its neutrality, higher technical performance, and added clarity. However, it lacks the smoothness and expressiveness of the Titan S2, so it can sound harsh and sharp with some recordings. The Titan S also tends to be a bit more clinical and sterile, whereas the Titan S2 offers a more natural and organic sound.

There are plenty of other options in this price range, such as the Kefine Delci, among many others. It's worth reading the relevant reviews to make an informed decision. What sets the Titan S2 apart is its unique and innovative tuning, which doesn’t simply adhere to the Harman target curve or a typical V-shaped profile like most other earphones.



Conclusion

The Dunu Titan S2 is a superb all-rounder earphone that excels in nearly every aspect. Its tuning is versatile enough to sound great with almost any genre of music, making it an easy choice for a wide range of listeners and compatible with various sources.

Beyond its impressive sound quality, the Titan S2 is also exceptionally well-built and comfortable to wear. It features one of the best cables on the market and comes with a generous assortment of ear tips for a customizable fit.

With all these qualities combined, it’s no surprise that the Dunu Titan S2 offers outstanding value for money, making it a strong, reliable recommendation for both seasoned audiophiles and newcomers alike.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The review sample was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review. I don't use affiliate links. The price of the Dunu Titan S2 is $69.99 and is available from HiFiGo.

Disclaimer: For various Google indexing reasons, most parts of this review have been processed with an automatic paragraph rewriting tool. However it reads exactly the same as the original content that is available in my website.

As someone who has been searching for the best sound for my ears for over 20 years, I have used many equipment. I haven't written a review for any of them. I constantly use reviews when purchasing a product. For this reason, I decided to share my ideas and wanted to make my first review with Dunu Titan S2. I purchased this headset with my own means and I am writing this review after approximately 45 days of use.

FEATURES:
Model: TITAN S2
Weight: 17.2g (8.6g each side)
Frequency Response: 5 Hz-40 kHz
Impedance: 16 Ω at 1 kHz
Sensitivity: 107 dB/mW (at 1 kHz), 125 dB/Vrms (@1 kHz)
THD: <0.3% @1kHz
Dynamic Driver: High Rigidity Dome with Composite Diaphragm with Flexible Suspension
Dual Magnetic Circuits and Dual Chamber Dynamic Drive Unit
Blank Material: High Density Chrome Plated Alloy
Cable: 4 Wire OCC Copper and Silver Plated OCC Copper Litz Wire
Cable Length: 1.2m ± 0.1m
Connectors: 0.78 2-Pin connectors
Plug: Q-Lock Mini interchangeable plug system includes 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced.

OPENING OF THE BOX AND CONTENTS:
The first impression I get of a product is very important. Dunu Titan S2 makes you feel that it is not a simple product when you hold the box. This situation is not found in many products close to the price. We have paid more than half of this product for the included ear tips and cable (assuming we purchased the Lyre mini). When we look at it from this perspective, the contents of the box are really rich.
Although Dunu uses a rich content in this product, I think it is a big minus that it does not include a device to collect the cable. This white plastic doesn't look good at all!





CABLE:
The cable feels really good. Good coating on the outside. The connectors are securely interlocked with a system called Q-Lock. There is some cable friction noise. The cable is connected tightly to the headset and is very sturdy. This cable was not connected with white plastic instead of a retentive velcro band. This is the biggest minus of this content.
Additionally, Dunu Titan S2 comes with a large carrying case made of hard material on the outside. It will really do the job well.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:
As I mentioned before, first impressions of a product are very important. When I buy a headphone or speaker and start using it for the first time, the impression it gives should create excitement.
DUNU Titan S2 excited me 60% of the time when I first put it in my ear. Because after SIMGOT EW200, which has a similar driver (Dual Magnetic Circuits and Dual Chamber Dynamic Driver Unit), my expectations were higher for S2. SIMGOT EW200 is half the price of this product but has limited box content.
When I first put the headphones into my ears, it did not give me the excitement of hearing different sounds. Over time, I felt the difference.

Upper Frequencies: Dunu Titan S2 has a refined and controlled sound that does not produce high detail. It makes the necessary elevation when necessary and does not cause any discomfort while making this elevation and does not give up control. It reflects all the excitement of the drummer in a piece, makes you feel the power of the drummer hitting the cymbals, but controls the trebles to reach their peak. The highs come to the ear without being piercing. There is no confusion in the upper frequencies. It is felt separately. Resolution is above average.

Lower Frequencies: Lower frequencies make their presence felt and do not suppress other frequencies. Lower frequencies are more harsh. It doesn't go too deep. It does not drown out other sounds and does not stand out at high volumes. It is controlled.

Medium Frequencies: It is successful in transmitting medium frequencies. It conveys it as it is, without compromising naturalness. However, there is a deficiency when moving from the middle to the top. This deficiency increases or decreases depending on your source. I will indicate this in the comparisons.

Sound Stage and Instrument Separation: The stage feels quite wide, no instruments sound cramped. In terms of imaging and scenery, Titan S2 feels spacious with a presentation beyond its price.

COMPATIBILITY:
Fiio BTR5+Dunu Titan S2
I tested Dunu Titan S2 with both 3.5mm SE and 2.5mm Balanced inputs with Fiio BTR5 Dac. Lower frequencies and upper frequencies improve, lower frequencies feel fuller. However, the feeling of space increases in the transition from mid frequencies to upper frequencies.

Moondrop Dawn Pro+Dunu Titan S2
4.4 with Moondrop Dawn Pro. The Titan S2 compatibility from the balanced port is very good. There is a certain expansion, the lower frequencies are less emphasized but the mid frequencies are enhanced. At this point, it somewhat fills the gap felt. The sound is more balanced and the upper frequencies are more controlled.

COMPARISONS:

It is surprising in terms of comparison and results with three headphones that are similar in terms of price paid, half or slightly higher price.

Simgot EW200:
Despite similar drive features, it is half the price. The box content is behind. Someone who tries both headphones in terms of sound capabilities may be amazed by the EW200 in terms of first impression. However, this will turn into discomfort over time. EW200 is more successful in producing details than Titan S2. The highs can feel great and the lows can go deeper. The soundstage is narrower and will feel very cramped compared to the Titan S2. The sound is more spacious, it will disturb those who are sensitive to treble. S2, on the other hand, can be listened to for hours and does not disturb the treble.

Fiio FH3
In my opinion, it is one of FIIO's well-made headphones. It is superior to Titan S2 in terms of price. In the sound, the trebles are sharper and the lower frequencies are stronger and deeper. Resolution is high. Titan S2 feels better in terms of comfortable presentation of trebles and wide stage, but lags behind due to its harshness in lower frequencies. FH3 is far superior in terms of energy.

Kinera Celest Plutus Beast
Plutus Beast is at similar prices with a different driver setup. The box content is behind. With its balanced sound profile, it does not create energy and is in a flat line. The stage does not feel wide. Resolution is behind. It doesn't have much chance against Titan S2.


FINAL IMPRESSIONS:

Dunu Titan S2 impresses with its wonderful box content. This is revolutionary in terms of content for prices under $100, and people who use this product will be looking for this content. In terms of sound impression, they should be aware of the lack of transition from the midrange to the upper range. It has a good representation of electronic, rock and pop music genres. It mobilizes the human soul with an average energy. It has a controlled/balanced character without overdoing it, with its large stage that can be felt individually. I would like to thank the DUNU brand, which offers an almost complete product in terms of content and natural and balanced sound for its price.

​

>>I am brazilian and I speak portuguese, so forgive my english, I’ll use translation tools to help<<


INTRO:

TLDR version on YouTube: TDLR - Dunu Titan S2

The Dunu Titan S2 have been sent to me by HifiGo in exchange for the publication of this review. HifiGo have not made any specific comments or requests and I will do my best to be as unbiased as humanly possible.

The Dunu Titan S2 can be found via HifiGo here: https://hifigo.com/products/dunu-titan-s2

As always, this is a non-affiliate link.

To avoid being repetitive in my reviews, you can find all the info about how I create the reviews, equipment used, how I receive the products and how to interpret my reviews by visiting: About my reviews



Intro…

Back in February 2022, I reviewed the Dunu Titan S, an IEM that I was quite fond of and has probably been one of the IEMs that I have most used since then. The reason for this is that it lives permanently hooked up to my Mac (via a Modi + Atom) where I do my video editing. I do listen to music also sometimes, while videos are rendering, and use them for quick multimedia consumption on that computer in general. It is not that the Titan S is my favourite IEM but it is clean, performs well and I sincerely enjoy using it.

Back then (almost 2 and a half years ago, which seems like decades in the IEM world), the Titan S was something that made a name for itself. The aesthetics were something different, the presentation and included accessories were very respectable, the performance was good (still is) and the price was more than fair. It basically turned itself into a reference point under 100€ at the time.

The Titan S2 comes in at a very reasonable price also, at just under 75€ (at the time of putting this review together) and promises to improve on the original, let’s see if it actually does or not.



Presentation…

After the Dunu sets I have reviewed since the Titan S, it is no longer a surprise that they come well packaged and with accessories that are very impressive for the price point. The Titan S2 is no exception.

The outer sleeve is pretty basic, just showing the brand and model on a red background, with basic specs on the back. However, opening the box reveals contents that will put a lot of other brands to shame.

We get the IEMs, the cable, the Dunu QMini cable with 2 interchangeable connectors (balanced and unbalanced), a cable clip, a semi-rigid storage/transport case and 14 sets of tips, in 4 different types and 3 different sizes.

There is absolutely nothing to complain about in this regard, the contents are just great.



Build and aesthetics…

The original Titan S presented an aesthetic that was different to anything before it and, as far as I am aware, anything since it. In the case of the S2, there is a slight resemblance to the original but not enough to immediately spot that they are the same model.

The shells are still completely made of metal, although, this time, the finish is mirrored rather than the brushed finish of the previous model. In the center of the IEMs, there is a round protruding part in bright red that looks like it should unscrew (it doesn’t, at least as far as I am aware). The overall shape stays the same but the S2 are slightly larger, at least in thickness.

The connections remain 2 pin and still sport a shape that is proprietary to the Titan. Not that other cables won’t work, they work fine, just that the stock cable covers the surrounding part to the connector also.

Speaking of stock cable, this is much improved over the original, in my opinion at least. As I said a moment ago, it includes the QMini cable that has interchangeable connectors that push in and then a ring screws down to hold them in place. The cable itself is a braided sleeve that runs as far as the splitter, where it then divides into to separate cables. I have to say that I didn’t expect to like this cable but I have found that I actually do, especially at my desk, as it never gets tangled and stays out of the way.

The storage case is the typical storage case included by Dunu in most of their models. While simple, it is very nice and is large enough to hold the IEMs and a dongle without issue.

In general, while I prefer the aesthetics of the original, especially as far as fingerprints are concerned, I really have no complaints about the Titan S2 in this regard either.



Sound…

All tracks mentioned are clickable links that allow you to open the reference track in the streaming service of your choice (YouTube, Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, etc.)

In the sound section we also find that the Titan S2 differs quite a bit from the original. I find that the Titan S is a rather neutral set of IEMs that doesn’t excel at anything in particular but also doesn’t do anything wrong. Nothing is overly pushed or bloated, it is just a good, neutral, all rounder. Some may find it a little overly present in the upper mids but I personally like it.

The Titan S2 moves away from this signature and emphasizes the bass more while dropping those upper mids. Here is a graph of the Titan S2 Vs the original (with my usual preference curve for reference):



Starting off with the usual subbass test, “Chameleon” comes across as more focused in the midbass than actual subbass. There isn’t a lack of subbass, just the focus is shifted slightly higher than those low rumbling notes. There is enough subbass but the extra midbass can make this track seem not quite as clean and controlled as it should be.

When moving over to “No Sanctuary Here”, here we can once again notice that there is a warm touch to the midbass area. It is not excessive but it is north of my preferences and, together with the delayed rise in the upper mids, does make the percussive hits take a little more spotlight than I would like.

With the low end reverb on the guitar of “Crazy”, there is a bit of boomyness to it that can become a little too much for me. Not to the point of becoming fatiguing like on many other midbass focused sets, yet still enough for things to not seem as clear as I feel they could be.

I find the same with a lot of acoustic music, such as “Sugar (Acoustic)”, where things seem a little blurred in general. It is not that they are excessively warm, this set has much less of a warm focus than many other sets we have seen lately, it is just that they are a little “hazy” with that slightly boosted midbass and upper mids that arrive a little late to contract.

Speaking of upper mids, these are much less pronounced than on the original Titan S and have a bit of a delay in their climb, meaning that things are not quite as present and clear as I would like them to be. This is particularly noticeable in vocal tracks that have warm bodied acoustic guitars in the lower ranges. Other than those mentioned above, “Something Just Just Like This” would be another example of things being just a little “hazy” in their presentation.

The upper mid does extend more than on the originals, stretching over into the 5k mark, however, this doesn’t really fix the presence and also gives me hints of that 5k presence that I am personally very sensitive to. It is not a painful 5k, not like if it was an actual peak there, but it still brings a bit of that spicy flavour.

Details are ok, they are not the best in price range but they are not terrible either, they just get a little diluted by that general “haziness” that I have mentioned already. If focusing on detail, such as the intro to “All Your Love (Turned to Passion)”, then the details are there, they are just sort of glazed over.



Conclusion…

I can’t say that the Dunu Titan S2 are a bad set of IEMs but I also can’t say that, based on sound presentation, that they would be my pick over many other sets at the same price point. For me personally, I would rather listen to the Titan S than the Titan S2. Admittedly they are not going for the same sound signature, so it is not really a fair comparison, but where the originals became a sort of reference point for me at the time, I don’t see anything in the S2 that would put them in the same place.

There is no doubt that they have a great build quality, aesthetics that make them stand out and come with accessories that are second to none in their price range (and much higher), but the sound just doesn’t quite do it for me.

To my ears, it is as though they couldn’t decide if they wanted the neutrality of the original or the warm, laid back, signature that is so common at the moment. In the end, they are neither one nor the other.

As always, this doesn’t mean that you, and many others, will not like them. It just means that I am not a fan.

__
As always, this review can be found in Spanish both on my blog (www.achoreviews.com) and on YouTube (www.youtube.com/@achoreviews)

All FR measurements of IEMs can be viewed and compared on achoreviews.squig.link

All isolation measurements of IEMs can be found on achoreviews.squig.link/isolation

The Racing Orange package is impressive, featuring a stunning array of accessories from the large case to the extensive selection of tips and a durable and robust modular cable. It's likely worth the cost for these items alone.
The DUNU Titan S2 is a single dynamic driver universal IEM with a bit of a twist.

The device features a distinctive dual chamber and dual magnet dynamic driver with a high-rigidity diaphragm, which guarantees more accurate sound reproduction across the frequency spectrum, while also enhancing driver efficiency and responsiveness.
The Titan S2 boasts an impedance of 16Ω and an SPL of 107 dB/mW (@1kHz), indicating that it is a relatively easy pair of earphones to power using most portable devices.
Additionally, it comes with DUNU's Q-lock cable, a versatile plug cable system that includes both 3.5mm SE and 4.4mm balanced plugs.
I personally appreciated the fit and finish of the S2 and found the comfort and isolation to be good.


The bass produced by the Dunu Titan S2 is deep and impactful, offering a satisfying rumble that maintains clarity without overwhelming the mix. The pronounced presence of percussive elements, like crisp snares and robust bass, is a hallmark of its U-shaped sound signature.
The midrange of the Titan S2 is warm and rich, offering a fine level of detail, though the note weight is thinner, and the musicality less than I would prefer. However, this doesn't mean they are poor; like most U-shaped IEMs, the mids are well-defined, and the technical proficiency of vocal performances is quite good, even with a slight recession.
The treble on the V2 closely resembles that of the original, with well-controlled and refined upper frequencies that are bright and crisp, offering good detail and spaciousness. It complements the warm bass and mids, adding a pleasant tonality to the overall performance.
The Titan S2 stands out for its imaging and instrument separation, allowing for precise sound placement within the soundstage and guaranteeing that each note is articulated with detail. It lends itself well to games and media.

Afterthoughts: The Dunu Titan S2 stands out in the budget category, offering a U-shaped signature that delivers ample technicality and detail with an enjoyable tuning. Although it may not be the most robust or fun, it remains a highly enjoyable option, providing excellent value for all that is included.

Intro
Coming off the heels of their recent release of Timmy's third collab DaVinci, DUNU is at it again. This time with the sequel to their killer budget entry of yesteryears - the aptly named Titan S2. During its time - the OG Titan S, along with Aria and T3 Plus - compose the triumvirate of the best budget sub-$80 sets a couple of years ago. These three launched a trend - a flock of similar single DD budget sets following the same appealing curve which catered to a majority audience and flooded the market at the time. As years went by, it became increasingly difficult to conceptualize a departure from that curve that could also appeal to the mainstream but proved it can be done. With sets like the Kefine Delci, the Simgot EA500LM and others more paving the way with their own renditions of being special at this pricepoint, can DUNU recapture that magic with this sequel to their budget success of a not-so-recent memory. Let's take a look at the DUNU Titan S2, which follows a similar design while improving in almost every aspect of the package but still quite the departure from the OG's sound.





Build and Package Inclusions
Knowing DUNU is packing a generous amount of accessories with its products is no surprise and the Titan S2 is no exception. Packaged in a black box with a minimalist red slide cover, what's immediately noticeable is the shiny shells with the red accent. The IEMs themselves carry an assuring weight with its stylish metal build similar to chrome. Not only are the shells make you feel that you got your money's worth, the cable is another part of the story. The somewhat non-tangly, fabric-covered OCC Copper & Silver-Plated OCC modular cable with a rubber Y-split going to the 2-pin connectors will convince you that this costs more than what you paid with your hard-earned cash. Not to mention that it's modular with a very well-implemented Q-lock mechanism which includes both 3.5mm SE and 4.4mm BAL termination plugs, making it both easy and secure to change your preferred termination. Despite the shape of the shells, it's unlikely you will find it difficult to get the right fit since it includes the widest assortment of eartips at this price. It has 3 pairs of balanced silicone tips, 3 pairs of bass-enhancing silicone tips, 3 pairs of candy eartips, and 4 pairs of S&S eartips plus a cable clip. Putting the cherry on top, included is the same quality zipcase used with the DaVinci.



Sound and Comparisons
As what I mentioned prior in this review, the Titan S2 sounds like a bit of a departure to the OG's clean, precise neutral to V-shaped sound. While the OGs tend to veer with a crisp treble and overall tonal balance, the Titan S2 prefers a safe, smooth but still fun approach. It brings a warm tilt, a bit more laid-back compared to the original but still brings an engaging amount of bass and treble. The midrange, despite being not too recessed, trades in a sense of body and thickness over clarity with some note weight. The overall resolution and detail is more than average but pinpoint imaging does take a hit with just a decent level of layering. If I may say so, it is a contrast to the detailed, somewhat lively bright Simgot signature, kinda an anti-EA500LM but not to the point of warmth that the Kefine Delci brings. It also serves as a sidegrade to the OG, being different from each other enough to make a case for still owning both. The Titan S2 weirdly has this sense of niche sound but still caters to a wide range of genres. It may be due to its lack of dynamism and refinement. it just feels that it could be fine-tuned just a bit more all the while veering away from the target its predecessor aimed for. Despite needing a bit more extension on both ends, it has enough funfactor to keep one engaged to keep listening and never feel boring in long listening periods.



Conclusion
Saying that the DUNU Titan S2 being worth its price is just an understatement. If there is an almost-perfect, safest recommendation as someone's first IEM, all the while skipping all the sub-$50 sets, then the Titan S2 is it. With an overall package considering all the inclusions, the premium build quality, and a non-offensive warm sound that has enough funfactor to cater to multiple genres - the DUNU Titan S2 just gives someone that sense of contentment that they got more than the worth they paid for with their hard-earned cash. It's a complete product one would never feel shortchanged having as an everyday carry with a sound signature to match. And with DUNU's track record and reputation of lacking in QC issues, the Titan S2 is just another winner in representing DUNU's continued remarkable stable. It just gives a fulfilling sense of ownership.



Sidenotes:
IEM set has been listened via the Sony ZX-707, AK Kann Alpha, and iFi Go Bar Kensei separately using the balanced silicone, atmospheric silicone, and DIVINUS Wide Bore eartips over the majority course of multiple genres across FLACs (16bit&24bit) and streaming (Tidal). The DUNU Titan S2 is available through multiple sellers for $79.99.

Dunu Titan S2 review

I bought this from Linsoul Audio for 79 US dollars. Thank you, Linsoul Audio, for fast shipping.

The Dunu Titan S2 is a complete package; it has good looks, good sound, a reasonable price, very good cable, and highly regarded eartips. The whole package looks great, and my unboxing experience was very good.


For this review, I used my Fiio M15s digital audio player (DAP) and my Letshuoer DT03 dongle DAC with my phone as music sources.

I used the stock cable and the pre-intalled eartips. I experimented with other eartips but found that the stock pre-installed eartips sound optimal for the Titan S2.



The Titan S2 takes power well; only at very high volumes do the vocals become more sibilant and the overall sound becomes convoluted, but on reasonably loud volumes, it has no distortion issues, which is average for the price range. And when it comes to source pairing, the Titan S2 is not choosy; it sounds inoffensive on lesser quality dongle DAC sources and improves a bit with higher quality sources. Dynamically speaking, it is average, not too energetic, and not lethargic either.


The sound signature is warm, bassy, and slightly V-shaped; the treble is slightly boosted; and the midrange is smooth and clear.


Technically speaking, the soundstage is quite big and immersive, certainly above average in the price range in my book. The shape of the soundstage is more wide than deep, and it has good height. The imaging is good for the price, but it can't compete with the best imaging IEMs that I have. You will hear images in the general direction, but you can't pinpoint them; it simply lacks image definition but is above average for the price.

The bass may not be the tightest, but it is pleasantly warm, reasonably clean, impactful, and full, yet not boomy. It is not in bass head territory in terms of bass loudness, but I would have to say that the bass is very enjoyable to the majority of people.

The midrange is smooth and non-fatiguing. The male vocals have appropriate warmth, and the female vocals are well balanced with the males'.

The treble is reasonably smooth and airy; it may not be the smoothest, but there is some delicacy and gentleness in the delivery of the upper treble. Ultimately, the treble is not as refined-sounding as other more expensive single-DD IEMs, but for the price, it is very good.



Pros:

- It sounds very good for the price.
- the aesthetics
- the cable and eartips


Cons:

- I wish it was more refined-sounding.
- average power handling, I can hear distortion creeping in as a form of increased sibilance in the female vocals at high volumes. just like any other IEM in this price range.

Sorry I didn't have a comparison section this time, as I am pressed for time, I'm very busy in real life, and I often go home tired. And IMO, it is pointless to compare the Titan S2 to its competitors in this price range because they all sound and perform similarly. It sounds slightly above average, but nothing about it stands out from the competition. Considering the whole package and the good sound of the Dunu Titan S2, I would warmly recommend it to friends.

Have an awesome week end, Cheers!

DUNU TITAN S2 REVIEW: THE PERFECT BUDGET IEM​

WATCH FULL REVIEW HERE:​

PRICE: $79 (PHP. 4,300)​

PROS:​

• One of the best value IEMs in the market
• Great accessory inclusions
• Superb build quality
• Bold and edgy aesthetics
• Well-done U-Shaped sound signature
• Great midrange timbre
• Good note weight
• Punchy bass
• Well-detailed but sibilant-free treble

CONS​

• Not the most technical sounding set for the price
• Bass extension is lackluster
• Might be too warm for some people
• Upper midrange might be too much energy on the upper mids to treble
• Not the most comfy fit

WHO THIS SET IS FOR​

• People who want the best value package under $100
• People who want a safe but fun sounding IEM
• People who want a bold and edgy aesthetic
• People who want great timbre

WHO THIS SET ISN’T FOR​

• People looking for the most technical sounding IEM
• People who want a more subtle looking IEM
• People who want the most snug fitting IEM
• People who want a more engaging and deep bass presentation

RECOMMENDED GENRES​

• Pop
• R&B
• Funk
• Jazz

SHORT REVIEW:​

The Titan S2 is arguably one of the best value budget sets to recommend right now. With it’s insanely good value accessorization, safe but fun tuning and an good level of technicalities, there’s much to love about the successor to the legendary Titan S. While it may not have entirely upgraded the sound of the Titan S and acts more like a different flavor, the S2 offers a different enough experience to show people the over 22 years of experience than Dunu has had in knowing what the market wants. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

FULL REVIEW:​

How do you do sequels correctly? In movies and media, it’s when you expand the world, explore existing concepts, improve upon the characters and introduce new and compelling ideas.

It’s not so different with in-ear monitors. You ensure you don’t alienate your audience while improving upon the shortcomings of the previous set and providing a fresh but improved experience. So why then do a lot of companies seem to not grasp how to do the “sequels” to IEMs?

Today, I wanna talk about an IEM that improves upon its predecessor in some ways, but shifts the experience in a way that may alienate those that loved the original. We’ll also be talking about what makes an IEM stand out from the extremely competitive portable audio market in 2024. Let’s talk about the Dunu Titan S2

DISCLAIMER: The Titan S2 was sent over by Dunu in exchange for my honest thoughts. All my thoughts and opinions are my own and I was not paid or compensated to say anything about the product.

THE TITAN RISES AGAIN!​

Dunu is a brand that many of you should be familiar with. As one of the oldest brands being established 2002, they’ve come out with many established sets over the years. One of these sets also happen to be one of the cheapest, named the Titan S. What makes the Titan S special is the fact that this came out during the peak of the Aria craze. Everyone and their mother wanted a piece of the pie. Some being successful while others fell into irrelevancy. Dunu’s Titan S was one of the sets that stood out for the reason that it shifted the focus on the upper frequencies and was even technically better than the Aria at the time. Personally, the Titan S was also my favorite out of the Aria clones and is arguably the only set to remain competitive at under $100 ‘til this day. This is a very high bar for the $79 Titan S2 to hurdle, so let’s talk about it!

UNBOXING​

One of the biggest upgrades from the Titan S is the unboxing experience. You get a rather reminiscent box from the one that came in the Falcon Ultra and DaVinci with the same unboxing experience



Here is a full list of the inclusions:

• Dunu Titan S2
• Sleeved 2-pin modular cable
• 3 Pairs of Dunu Candy eartips
• 3 Pairs of Olive Grey Eartips
• 3 Pairs of Basic Red Silicone EArtips
• 5 pairs of Dunu S&S
• 4.4mm Modular Jack
• Carrying pouch
• Paperwork

Ladies and gentlemen, this is the best value IEM you can get in the market right now. That’s a big claim that I’m willing to bet my bottom dollar on because where can you find a $79 with a $30 cable and eartips worth almost $30. That’s $60 on the accessory department which leaves $40 for the IEM itself. If that’s not insanely good value, then I don’t know what is.



It’s ain’t no cheap accessories either. These feature both the Dunu Candy and S&S tips which are both $12 each. And they’re expensive for a reason. The S&S is arguably one of the most versatile eartips in the market and the Candy offers superb stability, seal and a balanced sound. This is on top of the basic eartips, adaptor and large carrying case that are to be expected with Dunu’s offerings and you have yourself one of the best accessorized packages in the market today.

Build & Fit​

If you thought they did all that to cheap out on the build quality, that’s where you’re mistaken. The Dunu Titan S2 features a single high-rigidity dome with flexible suspension composite diaphragm, dual magnetic circuits and dual-chamber single dynamic driver housed in a high-dense chrome-plated alloy.



Quite the mouthful, but all that might as well have been left unsaid as the Titan S2 keeps the superb build quality of the original but spices up the design cues quite a bit. From the cyberpunk-esque smooth build to an edgy, expressive and shining finish that exudes the word “cool”. It’s a bolder look compared to its predecessor, but this is exactly what I meant when I said that it improves from the older set. The Titan S2 looks more distinct, more vibrant and extravagant in every sense of the word. A little similar to Acoustune IEMs, but distinct enough.



However, one thing that was not improved was the fit. Just like the older Titan S, the Titan S2 has a comfortable but not-so-snug nor good sealing fit in the ear. Using the S&S tips offered the best sound and comfort, which is a great thing as it comes with it, but the stock tips and all the other tips don’t really compliment the S2’s overall fit. I didn’t have any issues with discomfort, but it slid off my ears more times than I’d like.




Another highlight of the Titan S2 is the cable. This bares close resemblance to their aftermarket Lyre Mini but switches it . This has got to be one of the best sleeved cables that I’ve ever tried. Most, if not, all sleeved cables I’ve tried prior were too heavy or too stiff to actually be used. This forces me to cable roll or to live with the discomfort of such a cable. I did not experience any of that with the stock cable as the sleeved section is lightweight and soft while the braided section is your usual cable material. And how can we not talk about the Q-Lock mini. Out of all the modular systems that I’ve tried, this is the best one. It combines stability by providing a screw lock while also being lightweight, sturdy and good looking. My only gripe with the cable is the braided section feels exactly like the kind of cable that gets stiff over a couple of months. I cannot confirm or deny this, but I am speaking from experience and experience tells me this material does not like oily faces.

SOUND​

Sound Signature​

The Dunu Titan S2 features a warm U-Shaped sound signature with an almost equal distribution of the brightness and the warmth. You could almost call this V-Shaped if it wasn’t for the generous glide on both ends that doesn’t scoop out the mids like other V-Shaped sets. The highlight of this set is certainly the balance of good timbre and good clarity that is surprisingly difficult to find under $100 with this kind of tuning.

Drivability​

The Titan S2 is a relatively easy to drive set as per most in-ears, but benefits a lot from a cleaner and higher quality source. This could be due to the warmer nature of the Titan S2 allowing it to open up to better sources, but it scales really well regardless. The TItan S2 prefers a more neutral source, but I personally enjoyed a warmer source to have a really contrasting experience.

Volume​

One of the things I really appreciate about the Titan S2 is how well it also scales with volume. On lower volumes, it brings out the midrange in a really clean and open manner while keeping apt note weight and clarity. On medium to higher listening volumes, the bass tactility is improved without inducing too much upper midrange energy. This is further improved with a cleaner source as it smoothens treble sharpness while keeping the details and tightens the bass.

Bass​

One of the things that separated the Titan S from the competition was the tight and clean bass presentation that many just weren’t able to compete with. This had the effect of making the Titan S one of the best Aria-clone for those who want a leaner bass presentation from the competition. The Titan S2 on the other hand goes the opposite direction and brings the bass up to the levels of the competition. Maybe this was done in response to the criticisms of the Titan S being too bass shy for some people, but this undoubtedly made the Titan S2 a more versatile set in return. The bass presentation is more midbass over subbass which makes it a punchier, richer and more rounded listening experience. However, this warmth is also it’s biggest weakness as the bass isn’t as nuanced or tactile as I’d like. There’s a decent level of punchiness but the small intricacies in the midbass is a little too smooth for my liking. Thankfully there is no major bloat or mud, although it’s getting there and will sound as such with the wrong eartip/source combo. You could attribute this to being “too slow” which is understandable, but I also think that they could’ve just boosted the subbass a little bit to really lean into the bassier sound.

The track that really highlights the major difference between the OG and the sequel is the track Swallow by CASIOPEA. The entire self titled album had a near perfect playback with the Titan S2 due to the superb balance of warmth and brightness that plays really well with the tracklist. However, Swallow in particular highlights the thick midbass that brings out the lower licks of the basslines of the track. However, the same track also highlights the lack of nuances as during the same licks and just doesn’t sound are immersive and satisfying as I’d like. This is especially evident from 1:17 onwards with that crazy complex bass lick that goes low and high in short succession.

Mids​

I want to say that this is the highlight of the set, but that would be undermining the thick but clean bass presentation and the crisp, detailed and well extended treble. Nonetheless, the midrange of the Titan S2 is great. Right out of the bat, you’ll notice that the Titan S2 has a slightly colored lower midrange that might come across a little too warm for some people, but I personally found that it perfectly complemented the energetic upper midrange that still kept the midrange from sounding distant. There’s a nice level of thickness in the note weight while keeping an open, clean and nuanced midrange that is impressive considering the tuning of the Titan S2. However, the warmth and energy in the upper midrange takes its tool on more complex or bassier tracks as the lower mids tends to get left behind and lacks detail and nuances. It’s not a problem if you listen to simpler and cleaner tracks, but something that you might find problematic for rock and metal. The upper midrange energy might also be problematic for some, but should feel right at home for those who has had the opportunity to use the Titan S. It’s not as focused on the upper midrange as the Titan S, but there’s a lot of energy to bring out the nuances and details in this region.

The perfect showcase of the superb midrange timbre is on the track “Love Moves in Mysterious Ways” by Nina with the life-like presentation of each instrument. The smoothness of the bass also aids in making the song a very smooth and soothing listen along with Nina’s clean vocals. However, the warmth takes over on some parts of the track “Through The Fire” by Chakra Khan where bass guitar to the lower octave instruments thicken the overall sound and makes some notes a little bit soft in definition and makes the overall listen more lush than nuanced.

Treble​

Once the highlight of the OG, now plays the complimentary part. And play the part it did. The treble of the Titan S2 keeps the bright, energetic and snappy sound while refining it to a level where it compliments the mids and the bass really well. It perfectly transitions from the upper mids with near perfect harmony while rounding it off with a solid level of extension in the upper treble. My only gripe would be that, due to the warmth, there are instances where the detailed are veiled and smoothened out too much. The extension also feels a little forced on some tracks, but is generally acceptable for most tracks. Like in the upper mids, there’s a lot of energy in this are that people sensitive to this region might find a little problematic. It’s not sharp or sibilant in any way, but it can get a little too hot on some tracks.

The track Get Lucky by Daft Punk is another really good track (and so is the entire RAM album) to playback with the Titan S, but I want to specifically highlight the crisp treble that perfectly compliments the warmth and gives the much needed upper midrange and treble energy from the thick and rich low end of this track. It balances it in such a way that it doesn’t overly emphasize the upper frequencies to compliment, but provides just the right amount of energy. However, people who prefer a lot of details and sharpness in the treble might find that the TItan S2 lost the energy that the OG TItan S provided. It’s still a respectable amount of brightness, but toned down thanks to the emphasis in the low end.

Technicalities​

This is the least impressive aspect of the TItan S2 which is understandable but is also one of my biggest critiques about it. While all-in-all it’s a technically competent set without any major flaws, there are far more technical sets in this price range that achieves what the Titan S2 does. First, separation and layering is somewhat hampered by the amount of warmth in the low end. This gives it a smooth and lush listening experience but struggles on more complex tracks. Imaging and headstage were also decent, but they were more in your head and less holographic than I’d wish. And lastly, both dynamics and resolving ability is perfectly average overall. I don’t think the TItan S2 not being as technical as other stand out sets is necessarily a massive concern, but $79 is a rather steep price in today’s market and those who are looking for a technically capable set may have to look elsewhere.

COMPARISONS​

vs Dunu Titan S​

One of the most important question that people have is whether the Titan S2 is an improvement from the Titan S. The answer is unfortunately not so black and white. While some aspects of the Titan S were outright improved like the package, the lack of low end impact and the potentially fatiguing upper frequencies, the Titan S2 isn’t a direct upgrade as it presents the sound in a completely different way. From a somewhat DF-style Harman-neutral tuning to something closer to those that it fought against with a warmer, bassier and tamer sound. It’s also not more technical and in some cases is even less technical than the original Titan S due to the added warmth. If you were to ask me, it’s not made for those who are looking for a refined version of the original Titan S, but for those who wanted more low end and more accessories.

vs Simgot EA500LM​

Arguably one of the most appropriate comparisons as the reputation of the Titan S seemed to preceded the EA500LM, the Titan S2 shifts the focus from being a technical marvel to a musical master. This, in turn, leaves the EA500LM the more technical, more energetic and cleaner sounding set overall. The Dunu Titan S2 has better timbre and a less fatiguing overall sound, but arguably the biggest reason to opt for one is whether inclusions matter to you or not. The EA500LM has a very barebones package while the Titan S2 is class leading.

vs Kefine Delci​

Two seemingly similar sets in idea but with contrasting results. The Delci is a bassier, warmer, deeper and thicker sounding IEM compared to the Titan S2 but the Titan S2s upper midrange to treble presentation sounds considerably smoother, cleaner and more consistent than the Delci. The mids are similar on the two, but the Delci somehow sounds cleaner while the Titan S2 has a thicker and richer sounding midrange. If we’re talking coherency alone, the Titan S2 has it in the bag. However, the Delci’s bass is really what takes the cake between the two sets as the Delci’s has a deep reaching, impactful and punchy bass with a lot of tactility. This is where the two separate and where I think the choice ends up being about whether you want a tactile, deep and rich listening experience or a well-balanced and coherent listening experience.

vs Letshuoer D13​

While initially an odd comparison, this goes to show the one trick pony that the D13 is and how it still dominates for one particular reason. Firstly, the Titan S2 has a considerably better tonal balance than the D13 while also having a cleaner and smoother overall sound. The mids sound more natural on the D13 and the treble has better details while remaining smooth and well extended. However, the D13 still has the considerably better bass extension, tactility, impact and balance from subbass to midbass. Up to this day, I haven’t found a set that could compete bass wise to the D13 and the closest has been the previously mentioned Kefine Delci. But regardless, the Titan S2 is still the better overall set in my opinion.

vs Oriveti Dynabird​

While it may be a newer release, the Dynabird screams old-school with it’s aggressive v-shaped tuning, particularly on the upper mids. This makes the Titan S2 the better set in terms of tonal balance. The Titan S2 also has a smoother treble and a richer and more natural sounding midrange overall. The Dynabird on the other hand has better extension and impact and has better separation and details, particularly in the treble. The Dynabird is a complete contrast to the warmer, more tonally balanced Titan S2 and acts as a antithesis of the fun and balanced of the later.

vs Simgot EW200​

I was debating between the Q5 and the EW200 to compare with the Titan S2, but the warmer nature of the EW200 lead me to choose that instead. Surprisingly, the EW200 is the more technical set between the two with a cleaner, better defined and more dynamic sounding set altogether. The Titan S2 on the other hand has a more relaxed and less “offensive” overall sound that makes the Titan S2 potentially the better option for people sensitive to an aggressively technical sound. But for nearly half the price, that’s an impressive feat from the EW200.

vs Dunu Falcon Ultra​

To top it all off, let’s compare it to the IEM that I said that if you didn’t have the money for to get the TItan S2 instead. And while it’s true to a certain extent, I also want to clarify that the Titan S2 is not a direct replacement to the Falcon Ultra. The Falcon Ultra is still the superior set in almost every single way due to the considerably more refined sound that is both more technical and cleaner sounding overall. However, the two share a resemblance in terms of its tonality and I can’t deny the fact that the Titan S2 can be a budget solution for those who enjoyed the sound of the Falcon Ultra and want something cheaper for their daily travels.

CONCLUSION​

So, did Dunu make the right decision to shift the tuning philosophy of the Titan S2? Did they make the perfect sequel from the legendary Titan S? I’d say yes and no.

Fundamentally speaking, the Titan S2 is a very safe and generally appealing set from Dunu that stays true to many of their sets. The Falcon Ultra, the DaVinci, even the SA6 MKII were all sets that were exceptionally good but were fundamentally safe sets that doesn’t really aim to break the market. The SA6 MKII would be the closest to do that and arguably did break the market with its insane value proposition, but it stayed true to the SA6 identity of being the peak of modern Dunu and they had to do something to stand out.

What the Titan S2 is not is a stand out set. Well, maybe besides the accessories as this is arguably the best accessorized budget IEM by far. TRN Conch and Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 were both well-accessorized, but not as good as this. You’re essentially paying for $30 worth of accessories which leaves you with $50 for the IEM itself. That’s an insane proposition.

But that’s also where the problem lies, in my opinion. The Titan S2 doesn’t really do much for the market in terms of its sound. It’s the safe, Harman-neutral style with good bass energy, clean and smooth mids and an energetic but safe treble presentation. Safe isn’t bad, but $79 has become a steep price for sets to just be safe. You have sets like the Simgot family of EA and EW IEMs as well EPZs recent offerings breaking the meaning of good sound value.

But I still think the Dunu Titan S2 exists for a good reason. In the past, I struggled thinking of the perfect starter or safe IEM to recommend. Most sets are either too edgy or tonally borked to recommend comfortably or just offers way to little for the end user. The Titan S2 is an entire package. Great eartips, great cases, solid build quality from IEM to cable and a very safe and enjoyable sound for most if not all people to enjoy for only $79. And that’s where I raise the glass to Dunu for creating the perfect budget IEM.

Thank you for reading my full review on the Dunu Titan S2. If you would like to order one, you may use the non-affiliated link below: https://www.dunu-topsound.com/product-page/titan-s2