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Quick specs
| Driver | 10mm dynamic, aluminum-magnesium alloy composite diaphragm |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 18Ω ±15% (@1kHz) |
| Sensitivity | 119dB/Vrms (@1kHz) |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz (IEC60318-4, 3dB) |
| Connector | 0.78mm 2-pin, detachable |
| Plug | 3.5mm |
| Distortion (brand claim) | Below 0.05% |
| Warranty | 1 year earphones, 3 months cable |
How we researched
This review is based on Moondrop Chu II's official product page, its published specifications and pricing, and a comparison with leading alternatives in tech & gadgets. We have not used this product ourselves; scores reflect how it compares on paper.What the Moondrop Chu II is
The Chu II is a wired in-ear monitor (IEM) from Moondrop, sold in the US by Linsoul for $22.99. It follows the original Chu, a budget IEM that Moondrop says the new model improves on.
It uses a single 10mm dynamic driver in a cast alloy shell, with a brass nozzle and a detachable cable. This is a researched review; we have not used the Chu II ourselves, so sound impressions below come from Moondrop's claims and owner reviews on the product page.
Key features and specs
Moondrop says the Chu II uses a new aluminum-magnesium alloy composite diaphragm dome with an ultra-thin CCAW voice coil, and calls it the first budget IEM to use this kind of diaphragm. The brand claims this gives better treble extension and punchier bass than the original.
The brand says it is tuned to its VDSF target response, the same target as the first Chu, and quotes full-range distortion below 0.05%. Listed specs are 18 ohms impedance, 119dB/Vrms sensitivity and a 20Hz to 20kHz response.
The cable detaches via standard 0.78mm two-pin connectors, so you can swap in an upgrade cable or a Bluetooth adapter cable. The brass nozzle is CNC machined, and the filter at its tip is replaceable if it gets clogged or damaged.
Build and what owners report
Moondrop says the shells use its alloy casting process with an anti-oxidation, textured finish and an ergonomic shape. Many owner reviews describe the earphones as small, light and comfortable, and several praise the included cable and case, though the official box contents list only the earphones and a user manual.
The recurring complaint is the nozzle. Multiple owners say the brass nozzles tarnish or build up green corrosion, and one long-term owner reports the gold coating wearing off and the cable's ear-hook tubing splitting after a year. One reviewer reported a channel failing after a week.
On sound, owner opinions vary. Some describe it as balanced or relaxed, others as V-shaped, and a few say the treble around 4kHz can be sharp on some music. That spread is normal for IEMs, where fit and ear tips change a lot.
Price, ordering and value
At $22.99, the Chu II sits at the low end of the wired IEM market. A metal shell, detachable two-pin cable and replaceable filter are features that are not always found at this price.
The catch is availability. The page lists it as a pre-order with no ETA, shipped in sequence, and states pre-orders are non-cancellable and non-refundable. Standard shipping is free to most countries but can take weeks.
Warranty is 1 year on the earphones and 3 months on the cable. Returns are allowed within 30 days only for factory-sealed items.
Who it suits
The Chu II makes sense for someone trying IEMs for the first time, or someone who wants a cheap spare pair for the gym, commuting or gaming. The swappable cable gives you room to add a Bluetooth adapter or balanced cable later.
It is a weaker pick if you need earphones right away, want a built-in microphone (the page does not list one) or plan to spend on tips and cables, since that pushes the total cost toward pricier IEMs.
How it scored
Alternatives
| Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|
| Moondrop Chu IIThis review | Budget-minded listeners, first-time IEM buyers and gamers who want a wired metal-shell earphone with a swappable cable. | Check price |
| 7Hz Salnotes Zero | Another low-cost single dynamic IEM | |
| KZ ZSN Pro | Hybrid-driver option on a tight budget | |
| Truthear Hexa | Buyers willing to spend more for multi-driver |
FAQ
Is the Moondrop Chu II worth it?
For $22.99 it offers a metal shell, detachable two-pin cable and replaceable nozzle filter, and most owner reviews on the seller page are five stars. The pre-order with no ETA and reports of nozzle tarnish are the main reasons to hesitate.
Does the Moondrop Chu II need an amp?
The listed specs are 18 ohms impedance and 119dB/Vrms sensitivity, which suggest it should be easy to drive from a phone or basic USB-C dongle. It uses a 3.5mm plug, so phones without a headphone jack need an adapter.
Can the Chu II be used with Bluetooth?
Not on its own; it is a wired IEM. Because it uses standard 0.78mm two-pin connectors, Moondrop says you can swap in a Bluetooth cable.
Do the Chu II nozzles tarnish?
Several owners report the brass nozzles tarnishing or forming green corrosion over time, especially with ear oils or humidity. The nozzle tips unscrew, so they can be cleaned and the filter replaced.
Does the Chu II have a microphone?
The product page does not list a microphone or inline remote. If you need one for calls, check the cable before buying or plan on a separate mic cable.
Can I cancel a Chu II pre-order?
According to Linsoul's page, pre-order items are non-cancellable and non-refundable, and the pre-order has no ETA. Keep that in mind if you need earphones by a certain date.
Final verdict
On paper and by most owner accounts, the Moondrop Chu II is a lot of IEM for $22.99, with a metal build and a cable you can replace. Buy it if you can wait out the pre-order and don't mind occasional nozzle cleaning. If you need earphones now or want wireless out of the box, look elsewhere.
