DUNU Falcon Ultra : Unleashing an Ultra Sonic Experience

The DUNU Falcon Ultra was released recently as part of DUNU's Falcon lineup. The DUNU Falcon Ultra is a single-DD in-ear monitor with dual tuning nozzles.

DISCLAIMER:

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

PACKAGING

DUNU has never been a letdown and bland with their packaging, a fact highlighted in my previous review of the DUNU SA6 Mk2. Even with their more affordable offerings, DUNU never compromises on the quality of their packaging.

What's include on the box?

• DUNU Falcon Ultra drivers
• 2 pairs of tuning nozzles
• 3 pairs of candy-colored eartips
• 3 pairs of narrow-bore silicone eartips
• 3 pairs of regular silicone eartips
• 3 pairs of  their premium DUNU S&S eartips
• 4-core high purity silver-plated litz copper modular cable with 3.3mm and 4.4mm terminations
• cleaning brush and micro-fiber cloth
• 3.5mm to 6.35 mono adapter
• Earphone case

BUILD QUALITY

The build quality is unquestionably excellent. The shell material is made up of S316 stainless steel, I can confidently attest that it is built to withstand the test of time. However, it's worth noting that the MMCX connection could be a potential concern for some users, as some MMCX builds tend to wear down with frequent use. On a positive note, the cables feature a modular design gimmick and are exceptionally high-quality and durable.        

SOUND

 The DUNU Falcon Ultra offers two tuning nozzles with significantly different sound profiles. The blue filters produce a brighter sound signature, while the gold nozzles provide a modest V-shaped sound signature.

BASS

The bass produced by the blue nozzles showcases an almost balanced and smooth response, with a subtle depth on the sub-bass frequencies, delivering a respectable amount of rumble. On the other hand, transitioning to the gold nozzles boosts the mid-bass thump, resulting in a substantial enhancement of overall dynamics, fun, and impact in the sound signature.

MIDS

The midrange provides an intimate and naturally rendered vocals. Although it exhibits a slight dip in certain frequencies, the vocals remain highly present, rich, and full of life. Additionally, instruments are meticulously detailed and easily distinguishable. The upper-mid frequencies take a prominent position, creating a pleasing equilibrium without becoming excessively harsh or shrill, except when pushed to very high volumes, where they may exhibit a slightly piercing quality.

HIGHS

The treble on the DUNU Falcon Ultra is undoubtedly one of the best I've encountered in a single-DD driver within this price range. It possesses a commendable sense of airiness and openness, carrying ample energy without veering into excessive sharpness. Notably, there is no sibilance present, but in some instances, there might be a hint of hissing when listening to poorly mixed tracks. Among the nozzles, the treble from the blue one stands out as my personal favorite, offering a natural, smooth, and highly detailed presentation. The gold nozzle, in contrast, maintains a decent emphasis on treble with a more assertive and aggressive attack.

TECHNICALITIES

The technical performance of the DUNU Falcon Ultra is above average, though it doesn't stand out as exceptional. It outperforms typical single-dynamic drivers and even competes well with planar drivers in its price range. While the soundstage isn't exceptionally expansive, it offers ample room for sound to breathe. Imaging is commendable, with a good amount of separation and accuracy among notes, vocals, and instruments within the soundstage. The level of detail is top-notch, but it can reveal flaws in poorly mixed and sibilant tracks. However, being a single-dynamic driver, it has its limitations, particularly on highly complex tracks where it might sound a bit sloppy and messy. 

TEST TRACKS

CONCLUSION

Pros:

• Respectable  and modest V-shaped sound profile.
• Mids are natural and doesn't sound metallic.
• Treble has decent amount of air and energy
• Blue nozzles can be an all-around performer.
• Gold nozzles have a more assertive dynamics .
• Packaging is impressive and worth the money.
• Modular cables.
• Decent technicalities for a single driver IEM.
• Good, decent fit on the ear.

Cons:

• The MMCX connection can be a deal-breaker for some.
• Some hissing on the upper frequencies can be heard.
• Can have limitations on technicalities especially on handling complex tracks.
• Can be fatiguing over long periods of listening.

Priced at $200, the DUNU Falcon Ultra proves to be an excellent all-around in-ear monitor. It is particularly recommended for individuals in pursuit of an enjoyable and vibrant sound signature. If you can overlook the MMCX connectors, you'll find that every aspect of the DUNU Falcon Ultra exudes robust quality, from its stainless steel shells to its premium cables and ear tips.