Started with the OG 2017 CFA Andromedas, have since upgraded to the Dunu Glacier, with another sidegrade in the Mysticraft Myth.
Honestly, each purchase has been well worth it, considering how different they sound and how much has changed since 2017 (the Andromedas still have their place though).
Compared to mid-range IEMs like the YU9 Que or the Aether, there is a significant difference that more than justifies the price increase imo.
It's like instead of the music being in your head, you're truly in the music.
Surprisingly, a good DAP has made a bigger difference than I'd ever expected.
I couldn't get the Dunu Glacier out of my head after hearing it and 1 year later I got them for my self. That's why I don't want to test another Dac after the Fiio M21 they can't be better if I haven't tried them.
For my ears no. Although quit heavy the shape grabs my ear like it was made for my ears as for sound while it has much treble never a problem for me. I have listened for 10 hours strait with out any discomfort.
The Origin was one of 3 that made me say wow at a show. I ended up buying 2 the Thieaudio Origin and the Dunu Glacier the one I didn't buy was the Thieaudio Valhalla.
The Origin is very special but the Glacier is the one I pick up most.
I have the Variations and the Glacier. They don’t sound identical at all. Variations sound thin compared to the Glacier. Maybe it’s my unit of the Variations. They sound very clean and detailed, but thin. Glacier on the other hand sounds natural with lots of bass
What budget? For me the endgame heavy metal/live music IEM is Dunu Glacier
Edit: nvmd now I saw $120 budget - I think Hidiz MP143, or Shozy P20 would be great if you can find one on sale, Plannar making very fast and accurate bass for metal and those has punchy bass with Shozy P20 has warmer, more musical sound profile. Another option that is easier to drive is Letshuoer S08
Around $140 other than Shozy P20 you have 7HZ Diablo but it's shape with the stiff cable might not be a good fit
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