You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly.
You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
Nostalgia Audio Durandal
- Added by Sonic Sleuth
- Create date
-
- Tags
- durandal nostalgia audio
JQuB3
New Head-Fier
Pros: Excellent bass response
Wide soundstage with impeccable resolution
Premium craftsmanship
Wide soundstage with impeccable resolution
Premium craftsmanship
Cons: Poorly recorded tracks sound terrible.
Treble can be a bit too sharp, especially in poorly mastered tracks.
Treble can be a bit too sharp, especially in poorly mastered tracks.
Nostalgia Audio Durandal
Disclaimer:
I'd like to thank Nostalgia Audio for including me on the tour for this fabulous IEM. The impressions shared here are based on my experience with the IEM over a few days. There has been no influence on me to write anything positive or negative about this IEM. One can purchase the Nostalgia Audio Durandal using the following link (non-affiliated):
https://nostalgiaaudio.com/products/durandal
Introduction:
Nostalgia Audio is a Hong Kong-based brand that specializes in premium IEMs and cables. The brand was established in 2020, and after being heavily impressed by their Camelot IEM, I was eagerly waiting to get my hands on their latest offering, aka, the Durandal.
With a starting price of 2419 USD, the Durandal is a Tribrid IEM featuring 7 drivers along with a 4-way crossover. The IEM features 1 dynamic driver for the lows, 2 bone conduction vibrators for the lows and mids, and 4 balanced armatures for the mids and highs. The IEM has an impedance of 15 ohms and a sensitivity of 115 dB.
The Durandal incorporates a stainless-steel front chamber for its dynamic driver, which optimizes the performance of the lows and tonal balance. It also incorporates their Spiral Flow Device (SFD) tech, in which a helical formation is used to induce a spiral pattern of flow, which helps reduce the loss caused by the curvature of the nozzle.
Nostalgia Audio has partnered with Vortex Cables for the “Hruodland” cable which incorporates 2 Strands of 21.3 AWG 4N OCC Silver and Silver Plated 5N LC-OFC Copper Shielding, S-Z Stands with Shielding Twined pair design. The cable has a customized flexible nylon wrapping and a high-quality gold-plated 4.4 mm balanced termination. For ear tips, Nostalgia Audio has partnered with Symbio to provide a customized royal blue version of Symbio’s popular Symbio W ear tips.
For this review, however, I used Azla’s SednaEarfit Xelastec II ear tips. Also, for this review, I tried the Durandal with the Sony WM1AM2 and the FiiO M23 as sources. The IEM's power requirement wasn't a lot, hence no external amping was needed with either DAP.
The earpieces are made of resin and have a gorgeous faceplate with a steel sword in the center, representing the Durandal. The faceplate almost has a kaleidoscopic effect of sorts, with multiple patterns and layers that reflect light differently and look mesmerizing.
Sound:
The bass response of the Durandal is focused on quality over quantity. There is good rumble with powerful slams, resulting in a well-rounded, tight, yet full-bodied bass response. There is no bass bleed or muddiness.
The midrange is nuanced and rich, with a tinge of warmth. Male vocals have really good timbre and sound natural. The emotion in an artist's vocals is conveyed quite well. There is good note weight, and the instruments sound quite natural. Female vocals too are well presented by the Durandal.
The treble is smooth, well-detailed, and sounds. There is good sparkle without any hiss, spikes, harshness, or sibilance for the most part. The treble seemed a bit too sharp in a few tracks, though I could also blame it on how those tracks were mastered. Else, the Treble sounds very natural and lifelike.
The Durandal sounds coherent and balanced as though the variety of drivers have been beautifully tied to sound as one single sound source. At no point does it feel like different drivers are handling different frequencies! The sound signature isn't the slightest bit fatiguing, enabling longer listening sessions without discomfort.
In terms of technicalities, the Durandal has a wide holographic soundstage with very good resolution and precise imaging. The stage depth is somewhat limited. The IEM presents complex and layered tracks with panache. At the same time, the IEM presents poorly mastered tracks as-is. A poorly recorded track will sound poor on the Durandal, which honestly is something I'd expect from an IEM in this price range.
Conclusion:
The Durandal is a good contender if you're looking for a TOTL IEM that you'd like to hold on to for a longer duration. The balanced sound signature with a wide holographic soundstage and super-high resolution will keep you engaged and immersed in music for as long as you'd like. The IEM is seriously hard to remove once inserted in the ear.
Disclaimer:
I'd like to thank Nostalgia Audio for including me on the tour for this fabulous IEM. The impressions shared here are based on my experience with the IEM over a few days. There has been no influence on me to write anything positive or negative about this IEM. One can purchase the Nostalgia Audio Durandal using the following link (non-affiliated):
https://nostalgiaaudio.com/products/durandal
Introduction:
Nostalgia Audio is a Hong Kong-based brand that specializes in premium IEMs and cables. The brand was established in 2020, and after being heavily impressed by their Camelot IEM, I was eagerly waiting to get my hands on their latest offering, aka, the Durandal.
With a starting price of 2419 USD, the Durandal is a Tribrid IEM featuring 7 drivers along with a 4-way crossover. The IEM features 1 dynamic driver for the lows, 2 bone conduction vibrators for the lows and mids, and 4 balanced armatures for the mids and highs. The IEM has an impedance of 15 ohms and a sensitivity of 115 dB.
The Durandal incorporates a stainless-steel front chamber for its dynamic driver, which optimizes the performance of the lows and tonal balance. It also incorporates their Spiral Flow Device (SFD) tech, in which a helical formation is used to induce a spiral pattern of flow, which helps reduce the loss caused by the curvature of the nozzle.

Nostalgia Audio has partnered with Vortex Cables for the “Hruodland” cable which incorporates 2 Strands of 21.3 AWG 4N OCC Silver and Silver Plated 5N LC-OFC Copper Shielding, S-Z Stands with Shielding Twined pair design. The cable has a customized flexible nylon wrapping and a high-quality gold-plated 4.4 mm balanced termination. For ear tips, Nostalgia Audio has partnered with Symbio to provide a customized royal blue version of Symbio’s popular Symbio W ear tips.
For this review, however, I used Azla’s SednaEarfit Xelastec II ear tips. Also, for this review, I tried the Durandal with the Sony WM1AM2 and the FiiO M23 as sources. The IEM's power requirement wasn't a lot, hence no external amping was needed with either DAP.
The earpieces are made of resin and have a gorgeous faceplate with a steel sword in the center, representing the Durandal. The faceplate almost has a kaleidoscopic effect of sorts, with multiple patterns and layers that reflect light differently and look mesmerizing.

Sound:
The bass response of the Durandal is focused on quality over quantity. There is good rumble with powerful slams, resulting in a well-rounded, tight, yet full-bodied bass response. There is no bass bleed or muddiness.
The midrange is nuanced and rich, with a tinge of warmth. Male vocals have really good timbre and sound natural. The emotion in an artist's vocals is conveyed quite well. There is good note weight, and the instruments sound quite natural. Female vocals too are well presented by the Durandal.

The treble is smooth, well-detailed, and sounds. There is good sparkle without any hiss, spikes, harshness, or sibilance for the most part. The treble seemed a bit too sharp in a few tracks, though I could also blame it on how those tracks were mastered. Else, the Treble sounds very natural and lifelike.
The Durandal sounds coherent and balanced as though the variety of drivers have been beautifully tied to sound as one single sound source. At no point does it feel like different drivers are handling different frequencies! The sound signature isn't the slightest bit fatiguing, enabling longer listening sessions without discomfort.
In terms of technicalities, the Durandal has a wide holographic soundstage with very good resolution and precise imaging. The stage depth is somewhat limited. The IEM presents complex and layered tracks with panache. At the same time, the IEM presents poorly mastered tracks as-is. A poorly recorded track will sound poor on the Durandal, which honestly is something I'd expect from an IEM in this price range.

Conclusion:
The Durandal is a good contender if you're looking for a TOTL IEM that you'd like to hold on to for a longer duration. The balanced sound signature with a wide holographic soundstage and super-high resolution will keep you engaged and immersed in music for as long as you'd like. The IEM is seriously hard to remove once inserted in the ear.
Scubadevils
Headphoneus Supremus
Pros: • Deep and far-reaching bass
• Highly effective bone-conduction implementation
• Rich, captivating, visceral, emotive mids
• Mind-blowing unboxing and accessories
• Unique and beautiful design
• Excellent stock cable collab with Vortex Cables
• Highly effective bone-conduction implementation
• Rich, captivating, visceral, emotive mids
• Mind-blowing unboxing and accessories
• Unique and beautiful design
• Excellent stock cable collab with Vortex Cables
Cons: • Treble might be reserved for some – I think ESTs would have been better up top
• Driver flex on insertion, but also again after a few seconds (this might be just my review set) – I’ll cover this in more detail
• Unforgiving of lower quality recordings
• Driver flex on insertion, but also again after a few seconds (this might be just my review set) – I’ll cover this in more detail
• Unforgiving of lower quality recordings
Nostalgia Audio ‘Durandal’
Configuration: 1x DD, 4x BA, 2x BCD
RRP: $2,419
Introduction
I was first introduced to Nostalgia Audio (NA) in early 2023 when I was given the opportunity to review the now legendary ‘Camelot’ – NA were pretty new to the scene at the time, and while there were already a small few fans of Camelot, it was still a largely unknown and definitely under the radar set. It is no exaggeration to say that Camelot quite literally became a game-changer for me, still to this day the benchmark IEM in terms of price-to-performance and my personal ‘sense-check’ versus pretty much any other set that arrives in that price arena, and often quite a bit more. Fast forward to now, January 2025, and safe to say at this point that Camelot thankfully has the attention it so absolutely deserves, quite a few fans in the hobby and still a set I’m always delighted to read when someone tries for the first time – always at least impressed, and often blown away!
Anyway, I’m getting carried away again with Camelot – this review is for their much more recent ‘Durandal’, and retains the sword theme that began with Camelot… I promise I won’t use that C-word again until a comparison later on J
I would like to thank Adrian in Nostalgia Audio for sending me Durandal for review, it is much appreciated and as always all words and pictures that follow are mine, with no input from the brand… the pen is mightier than the sword (I’ll get my coat…)
Durandal is available from various stockists around the world, linking here directly to our good friends at MusicTeck - HERE (non-affiliated of course!)
About Me…
I worked in the consumer electronics industry for a large part of my career and have been passionate about music and technology for as long as I can remember. Even as a small child, I would ask my mum to put records on the turntable (Abba, Supertramp, and Planxty if anyone is curious).
My music preferences are very varied—anything from classical to techno, indie rock to jazz, and everything in between. In my early teens, I was a big fan of bands like The Cure and The Smiths (still am all these years later). I was bitten by the dance music bug in the early 90s, becoming passionate about genres like techno, house, trance, and IDM. I amassed a huge collection of records and CDs, DJing at various parties and occasional pirate radio station slots. Although it remained a hobby, I still own thousands of records, and my trusty Technics 1210 turntables are still going strong 30 years later—a testament to Japanese engineering!
I am not a professional reviewer, just an enthusiast who loves music and the devices we use to listen to it. Over the last few years, I have become obsessed with IEMs and related gear. I've bought and sold many, and kept a select few—ranging from the $20 Moondrop Chu to kilobuck sets like the Aroma Jewel, Oriolus' infamous 'Traillii,' UM Mentor, and various beloved single DDs. Through this exploration, I like to share my thoughts with the Head-Fi community, hoping they might be useful to others. However, remember that this is a highly subjective hobby, and your mileage may vary.
While I've been fortunate to own and try a variety of the TOTL sets on the market, I honestly enjoy lower-priced sets as much - especially as the gap continues to close, many much cheaper sets now offering significant value and further driving diminishing returns.
I’ll admit I do suffer from happy ears—rarely do I find an IEM that I genuinely dislike. At this stage, there are very few truly "bad" IEMs; it all comes down to individual preferences. Since I listen to such a wide variety of genres, I almost always find synergy with some part of my library. Where I tend to deduct marks is in areas like value for money, poor accessories, or an uncomfortable fit—things that can detract from the overall experience.
Driver Configuration
It’s hard to imagine how the bar can be raised any higher when it comes to an unboxing and set of accessories, but clearly the labour of love from NA here is evident from the moment the box first lands in your hands… and yes, that bar is raised. Yes of course the hard-earned cash is ultimately for the joy of sound, but an unboxing like this certainly adds to the experience – I was honestly quite gobsmacked opening the package on arrival.
A few layers to get through here, which of course adds to the excitement... at least for me anyway
Fit & Design
I’m going to start here with a not-so-good bit, and that is driver flex. I have experienced this to varying degrees over the years, and appreciate it exists and the reasons why – for readers who may not be familiar, it’s essentially the dynamic driver ‘popping’ as the diaphragm of the driver is displaced due to changes in air pressure typically on insertion. This is usually a brief pop or crackle on initial insertion, and while a bit unpleasant, you quickly forget about it – and aren’t bothered either when you know it exists, and isn’t a defect or harmful to the IEMs or indeed your ears. Where I find Durandal unique, is that I get this driver flex on insertion in both ears – but, I then get it again after a few seconds just in the right ear – I must say it is unpleasant when it occurs again as it’s a bit louder, and a bit more intrusive as you are then a few seconds in to whatever you are listening to. This might be unique to my set, but I have to mention due to the experience.
With that elephant out of the room, let’s move on to more positive things! The shells are a medium size, impressively compact, and light considering the number of drivers.
The nozzle is relatively stumpy so depending on the size of your ear canals, you might have to play around with various tips. I’ve ultimately landed on the included Symbio W in large and find these perfect, clearly NA put thought into this in terms of fit and synergy, so if you buy a set, or indeed already own a set, I recommend trying them. As always with sets incorporating BCDs, you want a very good fit to ensure they are resting on the walls of your ear canals.
Once in my ears, I find them very comfortable and no issues listening for extended sessions.
Styling is very subjective and I typically prefer minimal styling – nothing bling that stands out, so I guess Durandal are the polar opposite of my usual preference! I have to give it to NA though in that regardless of my style preference, Durandal are finished beautifully, with a stunning intricate design adorned on the outside of the shells – incredible attention to detail and highly unique.
Cable
NA partnered with Vortex Cables to create the ‘Hruodland’ as the stock cable for Durandal. This is a lace style cable, think perhaps a sturdy shoelace that might come with a pair of hiking boots and you will get a sense as to the material and weight – relatively heavy and thick, but incredibly well made – it feels and looks wonderfully premium.
The cable ships as standard with 4.4mm termination, and I’m not aware of an option to change this.
The full cable specifications are as follows (from the NA website):
Listening Impressions
I’ve mostly listened to Durandal with my Sony 1ZM2, and more recently with the Lotoo GT2 and iBasso DX340.
I would broadly describe the tuning of Durandal as well-balanced with a reasonable bass boost. While it’s not overly energetic, there is a touch of energy that can, at times, lean a bit harsh on poor-quality recordings… an arguably common enough challenge with sets like this. The bass certainly steps forward, with a considerable level of both mid and sub-bass available when needed. The mids have good warmth and body while remaining sufficiently transparent and detailed. The treble extends well and is reasonably crisp and detailed.
Bass
I’m often reluctant to label a set as ‘bass head’ level, but I think it’s fair to say that Durandal will satisfy those seeking substantial sub-bass depth and impactful mid-bass. I loaded up some of my favourite techno tracks, a genre I frequently use to assess mid-bass impact, and I was not left wanting. The kick drums absolutely pound, landing right in the middle of my skull with huge impact and outward resonance. It evokes that nightclub sensation where the bass is truly felt inside your head…not that I've been to a nightclub in ages; just the thought of staying out past 11pm these days gives me shivers...
The sub-bass extends deeply, providing a visceral and cavernous sensation when called for. The rumble in the lowest registers of synths for example is very impressive. There is ample detail also for instruments such as bass guitar and piano to both feel the lower frequency, while at the same time hear perhaps the vibrations of the strings.
Midrange
This is where the bone conduction driver magic comes to the fore, and I must say it's one of my favourite elements of the Durandal. The presentation is rich, lush, and features a highly captivating tuning that seems to emanate outward from inside your head, thanks to the BCDs at work. Both male and female vocals are rendered with excellent authenticity, occupying a slightly forward and central position. Accompanying instruments in this frequency range, such as acoustic and electric guitars, sound lifelike and captivating, with plenty of room to breathe, even during busier segments with additional instruments in the mix. The Durandal truly excels with genres like modern classical or ambient, offering a highly captivating and immersive experience due to the mid focus and the visceral sensation of the bone conduction drivers in this region. The upper realms of, say, violin strings soar with an angelic grace, giving that ‘hair standing up on your arms’ feeling.
Treble
The treble is the only area where I feel the need to nitpick, perhaps due to being spoiled by the wonderful EST implementation in the Camelot, as one comparison. There is a good sense of airiness and no issues with detail retrieval. Percussion, especially hi-hats, is rendered with good authenticity and positioned correctly to my ears within the soundstage. Where the nitpick comes in is with the more visceral sensation that ESTs tend to provide, which I find somewhat lacking here with BAs. On the flip side, maybe beggars can’t be choosers here, given the impressive experience available in both the low and midrange frequencies. There's no noticeable sibilance, and the treble extends well without becoming fatiguing. The resolution is impressive, capturing the nuances in high-frequency instruments like cymbals and violin strings. There are times however where lower quality recordings can come off a touch harsh.
Technical Performance
The balance of cohesion, along with impressive imaging and layering within a reasonably large and holographic stage, is incredibly well done. Nostalgia Audio has executed this beautifully, emphasizing the overall musical experience while allowing you to zoom in on specific elements if you choose. Some sets may draw your attention to specific elements more than providing a cohesive listening experience. This isn't to say one approach is ‘right’ or ‘wrong’; there's always room for both in a collection, offering buyers a choice based on individual preferences. Durandal is definitely not a clinical or analytical set. It targets a more musically captivating direction, largely due to the bass and mids focus, especially with the bone conduction drivers at work. The overall tone as such has a degree of smoothness to it, a sense of natural flow that really excels with high-quality and modern recordings in particular.
Timbral accuracy, to my ears, is authentic, be it instruments or voice. However, I do consider this to be a somewhat subjective topic, influenced by how we, as individuals, have experienced various instruments throughout our lifetimes…
Test Tracks
Still Corners – Today is the Day
I’ve been a fan of Still Corners for a number of years now, and I must say that Durandal does them every bit of justice they deserve. Vocals are rich and vibrant, located in that central and slightly forward position—the BCDs create a sensation where you feel like you can almost touch them. The bass guitar strums along slightly in the background, likewise the acoustic guitar, while the electric guitar steps forward in the mix when it emerges. Everything sounds in its right place, with distinct imaging yet an overall cohesive presentation. Absolutely fantastic.
Kelly Lee Owens – Dreamstate
This is an interesting one, as I find it touches almost on an area of sensitivity for me, but not quite. I can’t put my finger on it, but perhaps I’d prefer tuning that leans more V-shaped for a track like this, where there is quite a lot of midrange activity between vocals and synths. It’s not harsh or jarring, but I feel it might be a touch too energetic, as I mentioned in my opening remarks. It sounds good, but not excellent, and overall, it’s not an album I’d feel inclined to choose Durandal for.
Glasbird – Passerine
I’ve chosen this as I know it will be a great example of where Durandal consistently shines for me. Before even hitting the 60-second mark, this track is sending shivers through me, making me feel like just kicking back and immersing myself in the experience. It is again a fantastic example of where well-implemented BCDs, sitting in the midrange, can be absolutely spellbinding and utterly captivating. There is no question about it, Durandal is a perfect set if ambient or modern classical are genres of choice... smooth, visceral, and utterly captivating.
Inkipak – Waves
Moving back to a more upbeat number here from the excellent ‘Phokusd’ by Inkipak. While it’s a rather energetic track from a percussive perspective, the synths are more melodic and subdued, so overall the track flows quite smoothly, despite the complex and fast-paced drum programming. Durandal does a fantastic job with this track... across the entire frequency range, the rolling bassline, melodic synths, and fantastic percussion are effortless and really engaging. By the way, if you enjoy this track, I highly recommend checking out the full album, and indeed others by Inkipak.
Jamie xx – Treat Each Other Right
Given the success with the previous track, which challenged my findings with the Kelly Lee Owens track, I thought I’d fire something more upbeat back into the mix, and this is certainly a good test. ‘Treat Each Other Right’ by Jamie xx is a real nod to early 90s hardcore and rave. Durandal showcases the kickdrums with fantastic authority—you really hear and feel that ‘slam’. The vocals sound evocative and captivating, while the accompanying melodies stroll along in tandem with the vocals. Durandal yet again does a fantastic job overall... proper head-nodding, foot-tapping stuff. This entire album is excellent too.
Globular – A Highly Sprung Spring
I listen to a lot of psychill and dub, and Globular is a great example of the genre. In fact, I typically reach for this genre within the first 5 tracks of testing a new IEM on arrival. It’s great for testing across the frequency spectrum and gauging that all-important ‘emotive connection’. Indeed, that box is ticked with ease... you’ve got the deep sub-bass, lush mids, and treble extension that allows for the percussive elements to shine, providing a sense of stage extension as the somewhat subdued hi-hats hit. I have to emphasize the highly emotive nature of the tuning and how perfect it is for a genre like this.
T.R. Jordan – Encoder Error
What an utterly beautiful, spellbinding, and almost tear-inducing track this is. I listen to this album on a reasonably regular basis, and this track in particular always seems to go straight to the heart. There is a sense of nostalgia to it, connecting me with a time I can’t quite pinpoint, yet I feel a sense of connection to this unknown time or place. Durandal renders this beautifully - the mids are wonderfully captivating, and it’s hard to articulate the sensation it provides. Visceral, haunting, and emotive don’t quite do it justice, but I hope you get the picture...
Comparisons
As noted, Camelot is one of my favourite sets of all time and has been for almost two years now. So does Durandal knock Camelot off the throne? Ehm, no—but it’s not a clean cut (pardon the sword pun). They are certainly complementary sets, and both do what they do well, really well. To cut to the chase (sorry!), Camelot remains my preference due to its more balanced tuning, and edge in resolution, clarity, and detail, which align more with my typical preference. However, Durandal takes the lead in terms of emotive, captivating tuning with smooth, rich, ultra-embracing mids. Durandal also has more bass quantity, whereas Camelot steps back a bit here but excels with its excellent dual-DD implementation, particularly in rendering sub to mid-bass. Camelot also boasts some of the best EST treble with excellent crisp, airy, visceral extension, which for my ears beats the BAs in Durandal. Ultimately, both are wonderful examples of slightly different approaches, so it depends on your preferred direction.
Conclusion
Durandal continues a wonderful legacy of excellence from Nostalgia Audio. It's great to see more boutique brands like this maintaining slower release cycles with huge attention to detail. From the unboxing experience and the unbelievable array of accessories to the intricate design of the IEMs themselves, this truly feels like a labour of love. There's a real sense of pride and passion from the brand, which ultimately lands in the buyers' hands… and more importantly, in their ears.
Durandal focuses on musicality, offering an emotive and highly engaging listening experience. It’s a set I’ve grown to love more over time as I became more familiar with its somewhat distinct tuning, especially with the midrange BCD implementation. This set didn’t click with me in the first couple of days—it definitely took a bit of time, which for me yet again is an important lesson in this hobby. Some IEMs take a bit of ‘work’ to appreciate, and once they ‘click’, there is no turning back.
I would like to thank Nostalgia Audio again for providing this unit for review, and I look forward to seeing what they come up with next… perhaps a Japanese Samurai theme to continue along the sword path?!
Configuration: 1x DD, 4x BA, 2x BCD
RRP: $2,419

Introduction
I was first introduced to Nostalgia Audio (NA) in early 2023 when I was given the opportunity to review the now legendary ‘Camelot’ – NA were pretty new to the scene at the time, and while there were already a small few fans of Camelot, it was still a largely unknown and definitely under the radar set. It is no exaggeration to say that Camelot quite literally became a game-changer for me, still to this day the benchmark IEM in terms of price-to-performance and my personal ‘sense-check’ versus pretty much any other set that arrives in that price arena, and often quite a bit more. Fast forward to now, January 2025, and safe to say at this point that Camelot thankfully has the attention it so absolutely deserves, quite a few fans in the hobby and still a set I’m always delighted to read when someone tries for the first time – always at least impressed, and often blown away!
Anyway, I’m getting carried away again with Camelot – this review is for their much more recent ‘Durandal’, and retains the sword theme that began with Camelot… I promise I won’t use that C-word again until a comparison later on J
I would like to thank Adrian in Nostalgia Audio for sending me Durandal for review, it is much appreciated and as always all words and pictures that follow are mine, with no input from the brand… the pen is mightier than the sword (I’ll get my coat…)
Durandal is available from various stockists around the world, linking here directly to our good friends at MusicTeck - HERE (non-affiliated of course!)
About Me…
I worked in the consumer electronics industry for a large part of my career and have been passionate about music and technology for as long as I can remember. Even as a small child, I would ask my mum to put records on the turntable (Abba, Supertramp, and Planxty if anyone is curious).
My music preferences are very varied—anything from classical to techno, indie rock to jazz, and everything in between. In my early teens, I was a big fan of bands like The Cure and The Smiths (still am all these years later). I was bitten by the dance music bug in the early 90s, becoming passionate about genres like techno, house, trance, and IDM. I amassed a huge collection of records and CDs, DJing at various parties and occasional pirate radio station slots. Although it remained a hobby, I still own thousands of records, and my trusty Technics 1210 turntables are still going strong 30 years later—a testament to Japanese engineering!
I am not a professional reviewer, just an enthusiast who loves music and the devices we use to listen to it. Over the last few years, I have become obsessed with IEMs and related gear. I've bought and sold many, and kept a select few—ranging from the $20 Moondrop Chu to kilobuck sets like the Aroma Jewel, Oriolus' infamous 'Traillii,' UM Mentor, and various beloved single DDs. Through this exploration, I like to share my thoughts with the Head-Fi community, hoping they might be useful to others. However, remember that this is a highly subjective hobby, and your mileage may vary.
While I've been fortunate to own and try a variety of the TOTL sets on the market, I honestly enjoy lower-priced sets as much - especially as the gap continues to close, many much cheaper sets now offering significant value and further driving diminishing returns.
I’ll admit I do suffer from happy ears—rarely do I find an IEM that I genuinely dislike. At this stage, there are very few truly "bad" IEMs; it all comes down to individual preferences. Since I listen to such a wide variety of genres, I almost always find synergy with some part of my library. Where I tend to deduct marks is in areas like value for money, poor accessories, or an uncomfortable fit—things that can detract from the overall experience.

Driver Configuration
- 1x DD – Low Frequencies
- 2x BCD - Mid-Low frequencies
- 2x BA - Mid-High frequencies
- 2x BA High frequencies
- 4-way Crossover Design
- Impedance: 15 Ohms @ 1 kHz
- Frequency Response: 12 Hz - 30 kHz
- Sensitivity: 115 dB @ 1 kHz, 1 mW

It’s hard to imagine how the bar can be raised any higher when it comes to an unboxing and set of accessories, but clearly the labour of love from NA here is evident from the moment the box first lands in your hands… and yes, that bar is raised. Yes of course the hard-earned cash is ultimately for the joy of sound, but an unboxing like this certainly adds to the experience – I was honestly quite gobsmacked opening the package on arrival.
A few layers to get through here, which of course adds to the excitement... at least for me anyway












Fit & Design
I’m going to start here with a not-so-good bit, and that is driver flex. I have experienced this to varying degrees over the years, and appreciate it exists and the reasons why – for readers who may not be familiar, it’s essentially the dynamic driver ‘popping’ as the diaphragm of the driver is displaced due to changes in air pressure typically on insertion. This is usually a brief pop or crackle on initial insertion, and while a bit unpleasant, you quickly forget about it – and aren’t bothered either when you know it exists, and isn’t a defect or harmful to the IEMs or indeed your ears. Where I find Durandal unique, is that I get this driver flex on insertion in both ears – but, I then get it again after a few seconds just in the right ear – I must say it is unpleasant when it occurs again as it’s a bit louder, and a bit more intrusive as you are then a few seconds in to whatever you are listening to. This might be unique to my set, but I have to mention due to the experience.

With that elephant out of the room, let’s move on to more positive things! The shells are a medium size, impressively compact, and light considering the number of drivers.
The nozzle is relatively stumpy so depending on the size of your ear canals, you might have to play around with various tips. I’ve ultimately landed on the included Symbio W in large and find these perfect, clearly NA put thought into this in terms of fit and synergy, so if you buy a set, or indeed already own a set, I recommend trying them. As always with sets incorporating BCDs, you want a very good fit to ensure they are resting on the walls of your ear canals.

Once in my ears, I find them very comfortable and no issues listening for extended sessions.

Styling is very subjective and I typically prefer minimal styling – nothing bling that stands out, so I guess Durandal are the polar opposite of my usual preference! I have to give it to NA though in that regardless of my style preference, Durandal are finished beautifully, with a stunning intricate design adorned on the outside of the shells – incredible attention to detail and highly unique.
Cable

NA partnered with Vortex Cables to create the ‘Hruodland’ as the stock cable for Durandal. This is a lace style cable, think perhaps a sturdy shoelace that might come with a pair of hiking boots and you will get a sense as to the material and weight – relatively heavy and thick, but incredibly well made – it feels and looks wonderfully premium.

The cable ships as standard with 4.4mm termination, and I’m not aware of an option to change this.

The full cable specifications are as follows (from the NA website):
- 2 Strands 21.3 AWG 4N OCC Silver and Silver Plated 5N LC-OFC Copper Shielding
- S-Z Stands with Shielding Twined pair design
- Customized flexible nylon wrapping
- Gold plated high quality 4.4 mm balanced termination
Listening Impressions

I’ve mostly listened to Durandal with my Sony 1ZM2, and more recently with the Lotoo GT2 and iBasso DX340.
I would broadly describe the tuning of Durandal as well-balanced with a reasonable bass boost. While it’s not overly energetic, there is a touch of energy that can, at times, lean a bit harsh on poor-quality recordings… an arguably common enough challenge with sets like this. The bass certainly steps forward, with a considerable level of both mid and sub-bass available when needed. The mids have good warmth and body while remaining sufficiently transparent and detailed. The treble extends well and is reasonably crisp and detailed.
Bass
I’m often reluctant to label a set as ‘bass head’ level, but I think it’s fair to say that Durandal will satisfy those seeking substantial sub-bass depth and impactful mid-bass. I loaded up some of my favourite techno tracks, a genre I frequently use to assess mid-bass impact, and I was not left wanting. The kick drums absolutely pound, landing right in the middle of my skull with huge impact and outward resonance. It evokes that nightclub sensation where the bass is truly felt inside your head…not that I've been to a nightclub in ages; just the thought of staying out past 11pm these days gives me shivers...
The sub-bass extends deeply, providing a visceral and cavernous sensation when called for. The rumble in the lowest registers of synths for example is very impressive. There is ample detail also for instruments such as bass guitar and piano to both feel the lower frequency, while at the same time hear perhaps the vibrations of the strings.
Midrange
This is where the bone conduction driver magic comes to the fore, and I must say it's one of my favourite elements of the Durandal. The presentation is rich, lush, and features a highly captivating tuning that seems to emanate outward from inside your head, thanks to the BCDs at work. Both male and female vocals are rendered with excellent authenticity, occupying a slightly forward and central position. Accompanying instruments in this frequency range, such as acoustic and electric guitars, sound lifelike and captivating, with plenty of room to breathe, even during busier segments with additional instruments in the mix. The Durandal truly excels with genres like modern classical or ambient, offering a highly captivating and immersive experience due to the mid focus and the visceral sensation of the bone conduction drivers in this region. The upper realms of, say, violin strings soar with an angelic grace, giving that ‘hair standing up on your arms’ feeling.
Treble
The treble is the only area where I feel the need to nitpick, perhaps due to being spoiled by the wonderful EST implementation in the Camelot, as one comparison. There is a good sense of airiness and no issues with detail retrieval. Percussion, especially hi-hats, is rendered with good authenticity and positioned correctly to my ears within the soundstage. Where the nitpick comes in is with the more visceral sensation that ESTs tend to provide, which I find somewhat lacking here with BAs. On the flip side, maybe beggars can’t be choosers here, given the impressive experience available in both the low and midrange frequencies. There's no noticeable sibilance, and the treble extends well without becoming fatiguing. The resolution is impressive, capturing the nuances in high-frequency instruments like cymbals and violin strings. There are times however where lower quality recordings can come off a touch harsh.

Technical Performance
The balance of cohesion, along with impressive imaging and layering within a reasonably large and holographic stage, is incredibly well done. Nostalgia Audio has executed this beautifully, emphasizing the overall musical experience while allowing you to zoom in on specific elements if you choose. Some sets may draw your attention to specific elements more than providing a cohesive listening experience. This isn't to say one approach is ‘right’ or ‘wrong’; there's always room for both in a collection, offering buyers a choice based on individual preferences. Durandal is definitely not a clinical or analytical set. It targets a more musically captivating direction, largely due to the bass and mids focus, especially with the bone conduction drivers at work. The overall tone as such has a degree of smoothness to it, a sense of natural flow that really excels with high-quality and modern recordings in particular.
Timbral accuracy, to my ears, is authentic, be it instruments or voice. However, I do consider this to be a somewhat subjective topic, influenced by how we, as individuals, have experienced various instruments throughout our lifetimes…
Test Tracks
Still Corners – Today is the Day
I’ve been a fan of Still Corners for a number of years now, and I must say that Durandal does them every bit of justice they deserve. Vocals are rich and vibrant, located in that central and slightly forward position—the BCDs create a sensation where you feel like you can almost touch them. The bass guitar strums along slightly in the background, likewise the acoustic guitar, while the electric guitar steps forward in the mix when it emerges. Everything sounds in its right place, with distinct imaging yet an overall cohesive presentation. Absolutely fantastic.
Kelly Lee Owens – Dreamstate
This is an interesting one, as I find it touches almost on an area of sensitivity for me, but not quite. I can’t put my finger on it, but perhaps I’d prefer tuning that leans more V-shaped for a track like this, where there is quite a lot of midrange activity between vocals and synths. It’s not harsh or jarring, but I feel it might be a touch too energetic, as I mentioned in my opening remarks. It sounds good, but not excellent, and overall, it’s not an album I’d feel inclined to choose Durandal for.
Glasbird – Passerine
I’ve chosen this as I know it will be a great example of where Durandal consistently shines for me. Before even hitting the 60-second mark, this track is sending shivers through me, making me feel like just kicking back and immersing myself in the experience. It is again a fantastic example of where well-implemented BCDs, sitting in the midrange, can be absolutely spellbinding and utterly captivating. There is no question about it, Durandal is a perfect set if ambient or modern classical are genres of choice... smooth, visceral, and utterly captivating.
Inkipak – Waves
Moving back to a more upbeat number here from the excellent ‘Phokusd’ by Inkipak. While it’s a rather energetic track from a percussive perspective, the synths are more melodic and subdued, so overall the track flows quite smoothly, despite the complex and fast-paced drum programming. Durandal does a fantastic job with this track... across the entire frequency range, the rolling bassline, melodic synths, and fantastic percussion are effortless and really engaging. By the way, if you enjoy this track, I highly recommend checking out the full album, and indeed others by Inkipak.
Jamie xx – Treat Each Other Right
Given the success with the previous track, which challenged my findings with the Kelly Lee Owens track, I thought I’d fire something more upbeat back into the mix, and this is certainly a good test. ‘Treat Each Other Right’ by Jamie xx is a real nod to early 90s hardcore and rave. Durandal showcases the kickdrums with fantastic authority—you really hear and feel that ‘slam’. The vocals sound evocative and captivating, while the accompanying melodies stroll along in tandem with the vocals. Durandal yet again does a fantastic job overall... proper head-nodding, foot-tapping stuff. This entire album is excellent too.
Globular – A Highly Sprung Spring
I listen to a lot of psychill and dub, and Globular is a great example of the genre. In fact, I typically reach for this genre within the first 5 tracks of testing a new IEM on arrival. It’s great for testing across the frequency spectrum and gauging that all-important ‘emotive connection’. Indeed, that box is ticked with ease... you’ve got the deep sub-bass, lush mids, and treble extension that allows for the percussive elements to shine, providing a sense of stage extension as the somewhat subdued hi-hats hit. I have to emphasize the highly emotive nature of the tuning and how perfect it is for a genre like this.
T.R. Jordan – Encoder Error
What an utterly beautiful, spellbinding, and almost tear-inducing track this is. I listen to this album on a reasonably regular basis, and this track in particular always seems to go straight to the heart. There is a sense of nostalgia to it, connecting me with a time I can’t quite pinpoint, yet I feel a sense of connection to this unknown time or place. Durandal renders this beautifully - the mids are wonderfully captivating, and it’s hard to articulate the sensation it provides. Visceral, haunting, and emotive don’t quite do it justice, but I hope you get the picture...
Comparisons
As noted, Camelot is one of my favourite sets of all time and has been for almost two years now. So does Durandal knock Camelot off the throne? Ehm, no—but it’s not a clean cut (pardon the sword pun). They are certainly complementary sets, and both do what they do well, really well. To cut to the chase (sorry!), Camelot remains my preference due to its more balanced tuning, and edge in resolution, clarity, and detail, which align more with my typical preference. However, Durandal takes the lead in terms of emotive, captivating tuning with smooth, rich, ultra-embracing mids. Durandal also has more bass quantity, whereas Camelot steps back a bit here but excels with its excellent dual-DD implementation, particularly in rendering sub to mid-bass. Camelot also boasts some of the best EST treble with excellent crisp, airy, visceral extension, which for my ears beats the BAs in Durandal. Ultimately, both are wonderful examples of slightly different approaches, so it depends on your preferred direction.
Conclusion
Durandal continues a wonderful legacy of excellence from Nostalgia Audio. It's great to see more boutique brands like this maintaining slower release cycles with huge attention to detail. From the unboxing experience and the unbelievable array of accessories to the intricate design of the IEMs themselves, this truly feels like a labour of love. There's a real sense of pride and passion from the brand, which ultimately lands in the buyers' hands… and more importantly, in their ears.
Durandal focuses on musicality, offering an emotive and highly engaging listening experience. It’s a set I’ve grown to love more over time as I became more familiar with its somewhat distinct tuning, especially with the midrange BCD implementation. This set didn’t click with me in the first couple of days—it definitely took a bit of time, which for me yet again is an important lesson in this hobby. Some IEMs take a bit of ‘work’ to appreciate, and once they ‘click’, there is no turning back.
I would like to thank Nostalgia Audio again for providing this unit for review, and I look forward to seeing what they come up with next… perhaps a Japanese Samurai theme to continue along the sword path?!


OnlySoMany
Be interesting to see how it compares against Macbeth.

gadgetgod
Fantastic review bro, the design of Durandal is truly next-level.
Sonic Sleuth
500+ Head-Fier
Pros: Exceptional sound quality with a balanced and engaging signature.
Instruments and vocals sound realistic and accurate.
Cohesive and musical presentation across all frequencies.
Deep, impactful bass with punchy mid-bass.
Natural and expressive vocals, especially with female voices.
Well-defined and holographic soundstage.
Excellent detail retrieval and instrument separation.
Premium build quality and beautiful aesthetics.
Instruments and vocals sound realistic and accurate.
Cohesive and musical presentation across all frequencies.
Deep, impactful bass with punchy mid-bass.
Natural and expressive vocals, especially with female voices.
Well-defined and holographic soundstage.
Excellent detail retrieval and instrument separation.
Premium build quality and beautiful aesthetics.
Cons: Sub-bass can lack control with very fast, complex tracks.
Slight warmth in the lower midrange.
Treble can be sensitive with certain recordings.
Soundstage not the widest amongst competitors.
May require some experimentation with ear tips for optimal fit.
Slight warmth in the lower midrange.
Treble can be sensitive with certain recordings.
Soundstage not the widest amongst competitors.
May require some experimentation with ear tips for optimal fit.
Preface:
I would like to thank Nostalgia Audio for sending this unit as part of the review tour.
You can purchase Durandal at the following link (not an affiliate link):
https://nostalgiaaudio.com/products/durandal
Also, I’m not a seasoned reviewer, so whatever I say is purely my observations and your results may vary.
I’m not the one to usually focus on specifications and numbers. I focus more on how happy I am with the equipment’s sound and that’s it.
Disclaimer: All impressions and opinions in this review are my own. I have not been paid or compensated by Nostalgia Audio or any other entity for this review. My assessment is based solely on my personal experience with the product.
Sources used:
Nostalgia Audio is a relatively new but ambitious player in the world of high-fidelity audio, specializing in IEMs. Founded by a group of passionate audiophiles, the company strives to deliver a premium listening experience through innovative designs and meticulous craftsmanship. Their philosophy centers around pushing the boundaries of audio technology while maintaining a focus on musicality and emotional engagement. This is reflected in their unique driver configurations, such as the tribrid setup found in their flagship Camelot model, and their dedication to research and development in areas like acoustics and materials science.
Box Contents:
Nostalgia Audio clearly believes in the importance of presentation. The packaging for their Camelot and Lancelot was undeniably impressive and the packaging for Durandal is a notch above.
The outer box of the Durandal is a work of art in itself. The most striking feature is the monochromatic illustration that adorns the lid. It depicts a medieval battle scene, rendered in intricate detail with fine linework. A warrior, wielding the legendary Durandal sword (rendered in a striking blue), stands amidst a chaotic clash of swords and arrows. Fallen comrades lie around him, while a rain of arrows descends from the sky. The overall effect is one of dramatic intensity and epic grandeur, perfectly capturing the legendary aura of the Durandal name.
Inside the box, every detail has been carefully considered. Even the small tab used to pull out the inner contents is designed to look like the Durandal sword. This attention to detail enhances the unboxing experience, making it feel like a special occasion.
The box itself is quite sturdy and an improvement over Camelot's packaging. It's a fittingly grand presentation for a flagship IEM, setting the stage for a sonic experience that's as epic and captivating as the artwork on the box.
Design and Build:
Holding the Durandal in my hand, I'm immediately struck by the sheer quality of the craftsmanship.The faceplate is a mesmerizing blend of artistry and craftsmanship, a visual symphony that echoes the sonic excellence within. Imagine a miniature portal into a fantastical realm, where intricate designs and vibrant colors intertwine to create a captivating spectacle.
The dominant hue is a deep, royal blue, reminiscent of the sapphire blades wielded by mythical heroes. This rich color forms the canvas for a mesmerizing tapestry of intricate patterns. Delicate silver lines, reminiscent of elven script or celestial constellations, weave across the surface, creating a sense of depth and dimension.
At the center of this visual symphony lies the emblem of the Durandal – a stylized sword, rendered in gleaming silver. This iconic symbol, both elegant and powerful, serves as a constant reminder of the legendary heritage that inspired these IEMs. It's a visual feast that invites closer inspection, revealing new details and nuances with every glance.
Cable:
Nostalgia Audio didn't skimp on the cable for the Durandal. They partnered with Vortex Cables to create the Hruodland, a bespoke cable that complements the IEMs both sonically and aesthetically.
The four-color braid adds a touch of visual interest, while the silk yarn wrapping gives it a luxurious feel. But it's not just about looks. The single-crystal silver construction ensures excellent signal transmission, bringing out the best in the Durandal's drivers.
Technically, the cable utilizes a Shielded Twins Pair structure with an S-Z Multi Strand core. This minimizes interference and improves conductivity, resulting in a cleaner sound with a blacker background.
Overall, the Durandal's design and build are a testament to Nostalgia Audio's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The earpieces are both elegant and functional, while the cable is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Wearing Comfort:
Now, let's talk about comfort. I've always been a bit sensitive to IEM fit, but the Durandal was not an issue at all. The earpieces are ergonomically shaped and surprisingly lightweight, nestling comfortably in my ears without any uncomfortable pressure points. I had no issues ensuring the shells makes proper contact with my concha for the bone conduction drivers to do their thing despite my small ears. I've worn them for hours on end without any fatigue.
That said, finding the right ear tips is crucial. The included selection is great however I could not get the Symbio W tips to fit inside my small ear canals even though I used S size and I ended up swapping them out for Eletech Baroque & Spinfit Omni tips to achieve a truly perfect seal. Once I did that, the Durandal practically disappeared into my ears, providing excellent isolation and a secure fit.
Driveability:
Driving the Durandal hasn't been an issue. I've used them with DC07 Pro, DC Elite, Dita Navigator, and they've performed admirably with all of them. The sound is clear and detailed, with no noticeable hiss or distortion even at lower volumes.
However, I did notice a significant improvement when I paired them with Hugo 2, XI Audio Broadway S and Quloos QA390. The soundstage opened up, the dynamics became more pronounced, and the overall presentation gained a level of refinement that wasn't quite there with just dongles (except for DC Elite). So, while the Durandal is certainly easy to drive, it definitely scales well with better amplification. If you're serious about getting the most out of these IEMs, investing in a decent amp is definitely worth considering.
Sound Analysis:
Now, before we embark on this auditory adventure, let's address the elephant in the room (or should I say, the dragon in the ear canal?). The Durandal boasts a rather unique configuration of drivers: a dynamic driver for the lows, not one, but two bone conduction drivers for the lower mids (yes, you read that right!), and a quartet of balanced armature drivers for the higher mids and treble. This intricate setup, coupled with a meticulously designed 4-way crossover, promises a sonic experience that's both technically impressive and musically captivating. But does it deliver? Read on.
Tonality:
The Durandal, to my ears, strikes a delightful balance between neutrality and warmth. It's not a strictly reference-tuned IEM, nor is it overly warm and syrupy. Instead, it occupies a comfortable middle ground, offering a presentation that's both accurate and engaging. Imagine a perfectly brewed cup of Earl Grey tea – the subtle warmth adds a touch of comforting richness without masking the inherent character of the tea leaves. This balanced approach is immediately apparent when listening to Fleetwood Mac's "Landslide." The delicate fingerpicking of the acoustic guitar is rendered with a natural warmth and resonance, while Stevie Nicks' vocals are presented with a captivating intimacy and clarity. The Durandal captures the emotional nuances of the performance without any artificial coloration or exaggeration. However, I did notice a slight tendency towards warmth in the lower midrange, which, while generally pleasant, can occasionally add a touch of thickness to male vocals, particularly in baritone-heavy tracks like Johnny Cash's "Hurt." While Cash's iconic voice retains its gravitas and emotion, a hint of added weight in the lower registers prevents it from sounding as crisp and articulate as it could.
Sub-Bass:
Prepare to descend into the subterranean depths of the Durandal's sub-bass performance. The custom-designed 9.2mm dynamic driver doesn't just rumble; it plunges into the abyss with the force of a kraken unleashed. Massive Attack's "Teardrop" is a prime example. The deep, pulsating bassline in this track reverberates with a palpable physicality, each note cleanly articulated and imbued with a sense of weight and texture that anchors the ethereal vocals and haunting melodies. It's like feeling the earth tremble beneath your feet as a storm gathers on the horizon. However, while the Durandal excels at delivering deep, impactful bass, it occasionally struggles to maintain the same level of control and articulation in faster, more complex basslines. In Infected Mushroom's "Becoming Insane," the rapid-fire bass drops can sound slightly congested, lacking the same level of precision and definition found in the slower, more sustained bass notes.
Mid-Bass:
Ascending from the depths, we encounter the mid-bass, where the Durandal continues to impress with its impactful yet nuanced presentation. Take Radiohead's "Nude," for instance. The pulsating bassline that underpins this melancholic track is rendered with a satisfying punch and texture, driving the music forward without ever becoming overbearing. It's like a heartbeat, providing a rhythmic pulse that anchors the song's emotional core. The Durandal's ability to convey the subtle dynamics and textural nuances of the bassline is a testament to its impressive mid-bass capabilities. However, in tracks with a more aggressive and prominent mid-bass presence, such as Meshuggah's "Bleed," the Durandal can sometimes exhibit a slight mid-bass hump, adding a touch of extra warmth and thickness to the already dense mix. While this can add a sense of weight and power to the music, it can also slightly obscure the finer details in the lower midrange.
Lower Midrange:
This is where the Durandal's unique bone conduction drivers truly come into their own. These unconventional transducers are renowned for their ability to reproduce vocals with exceptional naturalness and clarity. London Grammar's "Hey Now" is a perfect showcase for this. Hannah Reid's ethereal vocals are presented with a captivating intimacy and clarity. The Durandal captures the delicate nuances of her voice, the subtle vibrato, the gentle inflections, with a level of detail that's truly remarkable. It's as if she's whispering secrets directly into your ears. However, as mentioned earlier, the slight warmth in the lower midrange can occasionally add a touch of thickness to male vocals, particularly in baritone-heavy tracks.
Upper Midrange:
The upper midrange maintains the same level of clarity and detail as the lower midrange, ensuring that instruments such as guitars and pianos are rendered with a natural timbre and a pleasing presence. John Mayer's "Neon" is a testament to this. Mayer's intricate guitar work is reproduced with stunning clarity and articulation. Each note rings out with a natural timbre and a vibrant presence, allowing you to appreciate the subtle nuances of his playing. The Durandal's ability to convey the emotion and energy of Mayer's performance is truly remarkable. However, in tracks with a particularly busy upper midrange, such as Dream Theater's "The Dance of Eternity," the Durandal can sometimes struggle to maintain the same level of separation and clarity. While the individual instruments are still discernible, the overall presentation can sound slightly congested, lacking the same level of airiness and openness found in less demanding passages.
Lower Treble:
As we ascend into the lower treble, the Durandal's balanced armature drivers take center stage, delivering a crisp and detailed presentation with a focus on clarity and accuracy. Steely Dan's "Aja" is a prime example. The intricate percussion work in this track, with its layers of cymbals, hi-hats, and other percussive elements, is a true test of an IEM's lower treble performance. The Durandal passes with flying colors, rendering each element with precision and clarity. You can practically hear the individual drum sticks striking the cymbals, the subtle shimmer of the ride cymbal, and the crisp attack of the hi-hats. However, in tracks with a particularly prominent lower treble presence, such as Metallica's "Master of Puppets," the Durandal can occasionally sound a touch bright and edgy, particularly during the intense guitar solos. While this adds a sense of excitement and energy to the music, it can also lead to listening fatigue after extended periods.
Upper Treble:
The upper treble extends smoothly, adding a touch of air and sparkle to the music without any hint of harshness or sibilance. "Clair de Lune" by Claude Debussy exemplifies this beautifully. The delicate piano melodies in this track are rendered with a crystalline clarity and a beautiful shimmer. The Durandal captures the ethereal beauty of the piece, allowing the notes to hang in the air with a delicate shimmer. However, while the upper treble is generally well-extended and detailed, it can occasionally lack a touch of "sparkle" and airiness in recordings that are inherently dark or lacking in high-frequency information.
Soundstage:
The Durandal's soundstage, while not the widest or deepest, is remarkably well-defined and holographic. Instruments and vocals are placed with pinpoint accuracy, creating a realistic sense of space and depth. "Pink Floyd - Comfortably Numb" is a perfect example. The expansive soundscapes and swirling guitar solos in this classic track are rendered with a remarkable sense of space and depth. The Durandal allows you to pinpoint the individual instruments within the mix, creating a truly immersive listening experience. You can practically feel the music swirling around you, enveloping you in its sonic embrace. However, while the soundstage is well-defined and holographic, it's not the most expansive I've encountered. In recordings with a particularly wide and spacious soundstage, such as "Holst - The Planets," the Durandal can sound slightly constrained, lacking the same sense of scale and grandeur that some other IEMs can achieve.
Layering and Separation:
Even with complex orchestral pieces, the Durandal maintains a remarkable sense of separation and layering. "Gustav Mahler - Symphony No. 5" is a testament to this. This sprawling symphony is a true test of an IEM's ability to handle complex orchestral arrangements. The Durandal rises to the challenge, effortlessly separating the various instrumental sections and vocal lines. You can clearly hear the interplay between the strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion, each instrument occupying its own distinct space within the soundstage. However, in extremely dense and complex passages, such as the climax of Stravinsky's "The Rite of Spring," the Durandal can occasionally struggle to maintain the same level of separation and clarity. While the individual instruments are still discernible, the overall presentation can sound slightly congested.
Timbre:
The Durandal excels at reproducing instruments and voices with a natural and realistic timbre. "Norah Jones - Come Away With Me" is a perfect showcase for this. Jones' smoky vocals and the intimate piano accompaniment are rendered with a natural warmth and intimacy. The Durandal captures the nuances of her voice and the delicate touch of the piano keys with remarkable fidelity, creating a listening experience that's both relaxing and engaging. However, the slight warmth in the lower midrange can occasionally impart a slightly "euphonic" coloration to certain instruments, particularly cellos and male vocals.
Detail Retrieval:
The Durandal is a detail retrieval machine, uncovering subtle nuances and micro-details that you might have missed with other IEMs. "Snarky Puppy - Lingus" is a prime example. This complex and dynamic jazz fusion track is packed with intricate instrumental interplay and subtle sonic details. The Durandal reveals these nuances with remarkable clarity, allowing you to appreciate the individual performances and the intricate interplay between the musicians. You can hear the subtle inflections in the bassline, the delicate cymbal work, and the intricate interplay between the horns and keyboards. However, while the Durandal excels at revealing micro-details, it can sometimes overemphasize them, particularly in recordings that are already bright or sibilant.
Conclusion:
Durandal is a truly impressive IEM that delivers a highly enjoyable listening experience. Its unique tribrid design results in a detailed and revealing sound signature that's well-balanced across the frequencies and extremely coherent sounding.
One of the Durandal's greatest strengths is its ability to reproduce instruments and vocals with a natural timbre and impressive accuracy. This, combined with a well-defined soundstage, creates a captivating and immersive soundscape.
While it may exhibit a touch of warmth in the lower midrange and a slight sensitivity in the treble, these characteristics don't detract significantly from its overall performance.
With its combination of technical prowess and musicality, the Nostalgia Audio Durandal is a compelling choice for those seeking a refined and engaging listening experience. It represents a commendable effort from Nostalgia Audio in the competitive world of high-end IEMs.
I would like to thank Nostalgia Audio for sending this unit as part of the review tour.
You can purchase Durandal at the following link (not an affiliate link):
https://nostalgiaaudio.com/products/durandal
Also, I’m not a seasoned reviewer, so whatever I say is purely my observations and your results may vary.
I’m not the one to usually focus on specifications and numbers. I focus more on how happy I am with the equipment’s sound and that’s it.
Disclaimer: All impressions and opinions in this review are my own. I have not been paid or compensated by Nostalgia Audio or any other entity for this review. My assessment is based solely on my personal experience with the product.
Sources used:
- Dita Navigator
- iBasso DC07 Pro
- iBasso DC Elite
- iBasso D16 Taipan
- FiiO M17
- RME ADI-2 Pro FS R
- Hugo 2 + 2go with & without XI Audio Broadway S
- Quloos QA390
Nostalgia Audio is a relatively new but ambitious player in the world of high-fidelity audio, specializing in IEMs. Founded by a group of passionate audiophiles, the company strives to deliver a premium listening experience through innovative designs and meticulous craftsmanship. Their philosophy centers around pushing the boundaries of audio technology while maintaining a focus on musicality and emotional engagement. This is reflected in their unique driver configurations, such as the tribrid setup found in their flagship Camelot model, and their dedication to research and development in areas like acoustics and materials science.
Technical Specifications:
- 7 Individual Drivers, Tribrid Design
- 1 Dynamic Driver - Bass
- 2 Bone Conduction Vibrator - 2 Mid-Low
- 4 Balanced Armature Drivers - 2 Mid-High, 2 High
- 4-Way Crossover Design
- Spiral Flow Device
- Impedance: 15 Ohms @ 1kHz
- Frequency Response: 12 Hz - 30kHz
- Sensitivity: 115dB @ 1kHz, 1mW
- Core:4N OCC Silver
- Shielding:Silver Plated 5N LC-OFC
- Size:21.3 AWG
- Connector:CM 2-pin
- Jack:4.4 mm
Box Contents:
- Durandal 1DD 4BA 2BC IEMs
- Hruodland OCC Silver Cable
- Aluminum Protective Case
- Metal Card
- Exquisite Leather Pad
- Commemorative Ancient Coin and Necklace
- Nylon Mesh Protection Bag
- Nostalgia Audio XWB Ear Tips
- Custom Royal Blue Symbio W Ear Tips
Nostalgia Audio clearly believes in the importance of presentation. The packaging for their Camelot and Lancelot was undeniably impressive and the packaging for Durandal is a notch above.
The outer box of the Durandal is a work of art in itself. The most striking feature is the monochromatic illustration that adorns the lid. It depicts a medieval battle scene, rendered in intricate detail with fine linework. A warrior, wielding the legendary Durandal sword (rendered in a striking blue), stands amidst a chaotic clash of swords and arrows. Fallen comrades lie around him, while a rain of arrows descends from the sky. The overall effect is one of dramatic intensity and epic grandeur, perfectly capturing the legendary aura of the Durandal name.
Inside the box, every detail has been carefully considered. Even the small tab used to pull out the inner contents is designed to look like the Durandal sword. This attention to detail enhances the unboxing experience, making it feel like a special occasion.
The box itself is quite sturdy and an improvement over Camelot's packaging. It's a fittingly grand presentation for a flagship IEM, setting the stage for a sonic experience that's as epic and captivating as the artwork on the box.













Design and Build:
Holding the Durandal in my hand, I'm immediately struck by the sheer quality of the craftsmanship.The faceplate is a mesmerizing blend of artistry and craftsmanship, a visual symphony that echoes the sonic excellence within. Imagine a miniature portal into a fantastical realm, where intricate designs and vibrant colors intertwine to create a captivating spectacle.
The dominant hue is a deep, royal blue, reminiscent of the sapphire blades wielded by mythical heroes. This rich color forms the canvas for a mesmerizing tapestry of intricate patterns. Delicate silver lines, reminiscent of elven script or celestial constellations, weave across the surface, creating a sense of depth and dimension.
At the center of this visual symphony lies the emblem of the Durandal – a stylized sword, rendered in gleaming silver. This iconic symbol, both elegant and powerful, serves as a constant reminder of the legendary heritage that inspired these IEMs. It's a visual feast that invites closer inspection, revealing new details and nuances with every glance.






Cable:
Nostalgia Audio didn't skimp on the cable for the Durandal. They partnered with Vortex Cables to create the Hruodland, a bespoke cable that complements the IEMs both sonically and aesthetically.
The four-color braid adds a touch of visual interest, while the silk yarn wrapping gives it a luxurious feel. But it's not just about looks. The single-crystal silver construction ensures excellent signal transmission, bringing out the best in the Durandal's drivers.
Technically, the cable utilizes a Shielded Twins Pair structure with an S-Z Multi Strand core. This minimizes interference and improves conductivity, resulting in a cleaner sound with a blacker background.




Overall, the Durandal's design and build are a testament to Nostalgia Audio's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The earpieces are both elegant and functional, while the cable is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Wearing Comfort:
Now, let's talk about comfort. I've always been a bit sensitive to IEM fit, but the Durandal was not an issue at all. The earpieces are ergonomically shaped and surprisingly lightweight, nestling comfortably in my ears without any uncomfortable pressure points. I had no issues ensuring the shells makes proper contact with my concha for the bone conduction drivers to do their thing despite my small ears. I've worn them for hours on end without any fatigue.
That said, finding the right ear tips is crucial. The included selection is great however I could not get the Symbio W tips to fit inside my small ear canals even though I used S size and I ended up swapping them out for Eletech Baroque & Spinfit Omni tips to achieve a truly perfect seal. Once I did that, the Durandal practically disappeared into my ears, providing excellent isolation and a secure fit.


Driveability:
Driving the Durandal hasn't been an issue. I've used them with DC07 Pro, DC Elite, Dita Navigator, and they've performed admirably with all of them. The sound is clear and detailed, with no noticeable hiss or distortion even at lower volumes.
However, I did notice a significant improvement when I paired them with Hugo 2, XI Audio Broadway S and Quloos QA390. The soundstage opened up, the dynamics became more pronounced, and the overall presentation gained a level of refinement that wasn't quite there with just dongles (except for DC Elite). So, while the Durandal is certainly easy to drive, it definitely scales well with better amplification. If you're serious about getting the most out of these IEMs, investing in a decent amp is definitely worth considering.


Sound Analysis:
Now, before we embark on this auditory adventure, let's address the elephant in the room (or should I say, the dragon in the ear canal?). The Durandal boasts a rather unique configuration of drivers: a dynamic driver for the lows, not one, but two bone conduction drivers for the lower mids (yes, you read that right!), and a quartet of balanced armature drivers for the higher mids and treble. This intricate setup, coupled with a meticulously designed 4-way crossover, promises a sonic experience that's both technically impressive and musically captivating. But does it deliver? Read on.
Tonality:
The Durandal, to my ears, strikes a delightful balance between neutrality and warmth. It's not a strictly reference-tuned IEM, nor is it overly warm and syrupy. Instead, it occupies a comfortable middle ground, offering a presentation that's both accurate and engaging. Imagine a perfectly brewed cup of Earl Grey tea – the subtle warmth adds a touch of comforting richness without masking the inherent character of the tea leaves. This balanced approach is immediately apparent when listening to Fleetwood Mac's "Landslide." The delicate fingerpicking of the acoustic guitar is rendered with a natural warmth and resonance, while Stevie Nicks' vocals are presented with a captivating intimacy and clarity. The Durandal captures the emotional nuances of the performance without any artificial coloration or exaggeration. However, I did notice a slight tendency towards warmth in the lower midrange, which, while generally pleasant, can occasionally add a touch of thickness to male vocals, particularly in baritone-heavy tracks like Johnny Cash's "Hurt." While Cash's iconic voice retains its gravitas and emotion, a hint of added weight in the lower registers prevents it from sounding as crisp and articulate as it could.
Sub-Bass:
Prepare to descend into the subterranean depths of the Durandal's sub-bass performance. The custom-designed 9.2mm dynamic driver doesn't just rumble; it plunges into the abyss with the force of a kraken unleashed. Massive Attack's "Teardrop" is a prime example. The deep, pulsating bassline in this track reverberates with a palpable physicality, each note cleanly articulated and imbued with a sense of weight and texture that anchors the ethereal vocals and haunting melodies. It's like feeling the earth tremble beneath your feet as a storm gathers on the horizon. However, while the Durandal excels at delivering deep, impactful bass, it occasionally struggles to maintain the same level of control and articulation in faster, more complex basslines. In Infected Mushroom's "Becoming Insane," the rapid-fire bass drops can sound slightly congested, lacking the same level of precision and definition found in the slower, more sustained bass notes.
Mid-Bass:
Ascending from the depths, we encounter the mid-bass, where the Durandal continues to impress with its impactful yet nuanced presentation. Take Radiohead's "Nude," for instance. The pulsating bassline that underpins this melancholic track is rendered with a satisfying punch and texture, driving the music forward without ever becoming overbearing. It's like a heartbeat, providing a rhythmic pulse that anchors the song's emotional core. The Durandal's ability to convey the subtle dynamics and textural nuances of the bassline is a testament to its impressive mid-bass capabilities. However, in tracks with a more aggressive and prominent mid-bass presence, such as Meshuggah's "Bleed," the Durandal can sometimes exhibit a slight mid-bass hump, adding a touch of extra warmth and thickness to the already dense mix. While this can add a sense of weight and power to the music, it can also slightly obscure the finer details in the lower midrange.
Lower Midrange:
This is where the Durandal's unique bone conduction drivers truly come into their own. These unconventional transducers are renowned for their ability to reproduce vocals with exceptional naturalness and clarity. London Grammar's "Hey Now" is a perfect showcase for this. Hannah Reid's ethereal vocals are presented with a captivating intimacy and clarity. The Durandal captures the delicate nuances of her voice, the subtle vibrato, the gentle inflections, with a level of detail that's truly remarkable. It's as if she's whispering secrets directly into your ears. However, as mentioned earlier, the slight warmth in the lower midrange can occasionally add a touch of thickness to male vocals, particularly in baritone-heavy tracks.
Upper Midrange:
The upper midrange maintains the same level of clarity and detail as the lower midrange, ensuring that instruments such as guitars and pianos are rendered with a natural timbre and a pleasing presence. John Mayer's "Neon" is a testament to this. Mayer's intricate guitar work is reproduced with stunning clarity and articulation. Each note rings out with a natural timbre and a vibrant presence, allowing you to appreciate the subtle nuances of his playing. The Durandal's ability to convey the emotion and energy of Mayer's performance is truly remarkable. However, in tracks with a particularly busy upper midrange, such as Dream Theater's "The Dance of Eternity," the Durandal can sometimes struggle to maintain the same level of separation and clarity. While the individual instruments are still discernible, the overall presentation can sound slightly congested, lacking the same level of airiness and openness found in less demanding passages.
Lower Treble:
As we ascend into the lower treble, the Durandal's balanced armature drivers take center stage, delivering a crisp and detailed presentation with a focus on clarity and accuracy. Steely Dan's "Aja" is a prime example. The intricate percussion work in this track, with its layers of cymbals, hi-hats, and other percussive elements, is a true test of an IEM's lower treble performance. The Durandal passes with flying colors, rendering each element with precision and clarity. You can practically hear the individual drum sticks striking the cymbals, the subtle shimmer of the ride cymbal, and the crisp attack of the hi-hats. However, in tracks with a particularly prominent lower treble presence, such as Metallica's "Master of Puppets," the Durandal can occasionally sound a touch bright and edgy, particularly during the intense guitar solos. While this adds a sense of excitement and energy to the music, it can also lead to listening fatigue after extended periods.
Upper Treble:
The upper treble extends smoothly, adding a touch of air and sparkle to the music without any hint of harshness or sibilance. "Clair de Lune" by Claude Debussy exemplifies this beautifully. The delicate piano melodies in this track are rendered with a crystalline clarity and a beautiful shimmer. The Durandal captures the ethereal beauty of the piece, allowing the notes to hang in the air with a delicate shimmer. However, while the upper treble is generally well-extended and detailed, it can occasionally lack a touch of "sparkle" and airiness in recordings that are inherently dark or lacking in high-frequency information.
Soundstage:
The Durandal's soundstage, while not the widest or deepest, is remarkably well-defined and holographic. Instruments and vocals are placed with pinpoint accuracy, creating a realistic sense of space and depth. "Pink Floyd - Comfortably Numb" is a perfect example. The expansive soundscapes and swirling guitar solos in this classic track are rendered with a remarkable sense of space and depth. The Durandal allows you to pinpoint the individual instruments within the mix, creating a truly immersive listening experience. You can practically feel the music swirling around you, enveloping you in its sonic embrace. However, while the soundstage is well-defined and holographic, it's not the most expansive I've encountered. In recordings with a particularly wide and spacious soundstage, such as "Holst - The Planets," the Durandal can sound slightly constrained, lacking the same sense of scale and grandeur that some other IEMs can achieve.
Layering and Separation:
Even with complex orchestral pieces, the Durandal maintains a remarkable sense of separation and layering. "Gustav Mahler - Symphony No. 5" is a testament to this. This sprawling symphony is a true test of an IEM's ability to handle complex orchestral arrangements. The Durandal rises to the challenge, effortlessly separating the various instrumental sections and vocal lines. You can clearly hear the interplay between the strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion, each instrument occupying its own distinct space within the soundstage. However, in extremely dense and complex passages, such as the climax of Stravinsky's "The Rite of Spring," the Durandal can occasionally struggle to maintain the same level of separation and clarity. While the individual instruments are still discernible, the overall presentation can sound slightly congested.
Timbre:
The Durandal excels at reproducing instruments and voices with a natural and realistic timbre. "Norah Jones - Come Away With Me" is a perfect showcase for this. Jones' smoky vocals and the intimate piano accompaniment are rendered with a natural warmth and intimacy. The Durandal captures the nuances of her voice and the delicate touch of the piano keys with remarkable fidelity, creating a listening experience that's both relaxing and engaging. However, the slight warmth in the lower midrange can occasionally impart a slightly "euphonic" coloration to certain instruments, particularly cellos and male vocals.
Detail Retrieval:
The Durandal is a detail retrieval machine, uncovering subtle nuances and micro-details that you might have missed with other IEMs. "Snarky Puppy - Lingus" is a prime example. This complex and dynamic jazz fusion track is packed with intricate instrumental interplay and subtle sonic details. The Durandal reveals these nuances with remarkable clarity, allowing you to appreciate the individual performances and the intricate interplay between the musicians. You can hear the subtle inflections in the bassline, the delicate cymbal work, and the intricate interplay between the horns and keyboards. However, while the Durandal excels at revealing micro-details, it can sometimes overemphasize them, particularly in recordings that are already bright or sibilant.
Conclusion:
Durandal is a truly impressive IEM that delivers a highly enjoyable listening experience. Its unique tribrid design results in a detailed and revealing sound signature that's well-balanced across the frequencies and extremely coherent sounding.
One of the Durandal's greatest strengths is its ability to reproduce instruments and vocals with a natural timbre and impressive accuracy. This, combined with a well-defined soundstage, creates a captivating and immersive soundscape.
While it may exhibit a touch of warmth in the lower midrange and a slight sensitivity in the treble, these characteristics don't detract significantly from its overall performance.
With its combination of technical prowess and musicality, the Nostalgia Audio Durandal is a compelling choice for those seeking a refined and engaging listening experience. It represents a commendable effort from Nostalgia Audio in the competitive world of high-end IEMs.
Attachments
Last edited:

Ferdinando1968
Very nice, IEM and cable.
I recently came into owning a NA Tesseract and its propelled itself in the top 5 iem I've ever tried - definitely excited to hear the Durandal.