General Information

DUNU Studio SA6 MK2

6 High-Performance Balanced Armature Drivers | Two Adjustable Tunings | Original Solid Stabilized Wooden Face Covers | High-Quality Hulk Pro Mini Cable | Q-Lock Plus Interchangeable Termination Plug System.

Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance: 24 ohms @ 1 kHz
Sensitivity: 114 +- 1 dB @ 1 kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.5% @ 1 kHz

Configuration:
Bass (2) : Sonion AcuPass Vented Dual Woofer
Mid (2) : Knowles Custom Midrange Driver
Treble (2) : Knowles Custom Dual Tweeter

Tuning Modes:
- Default Signature
- Atmospheric Immersion (ON)

Housing Material:
Shell : German Nice-Fit Hand-Poured UV Acrylic Resin
Faceplate : High-Grade Stabilized Wood

Wire Material : Hulk Pro Mini
Cable Length : 1.2m
Cable Connector : 2-Pin (0.78mm)
Plug Connector : Patented Q-Lock Plus Modular Plug System
Included Plug Terminations:
4.4 mm TRRS Balanced, 3.5 mm TRS Single-Ended

Purchase your SA6 MK2 here -
https://hifigo.com/collections/new-arrival/products/dunu-sa6-mkii-iems

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Six High-Performance BA Drivers from Sonion & Knowles

Impactful Lower-End Performance:

With customized low-frequency driver, the lower-end has a deep impactful performance, SA6 MK2 adopts two customized low-frequency drivers combined with the airflow valve in the cavity to achieve huge air flow.


Crisp Mid-High Frequency Response:

SA6 MK2 adopts customized independent mid-high frequency BA driver units that tend to produce natural & vivid mid-high frequency response. It features two custom-made Knowles Independent mid-high frequency drivers to polish the response mid-high response with a detailed, natural response.

Customized Ultra-high frequency driver unit, Rich-Airy Presentation:

With two customized Knowles Ultra-High Frequency Balanced Armature Drivers, it stimulates outstanding details in the ultra-high-frequency region and delivers beautiful high-frequency extensions with an airy response.


Precise Dual-Way Three-Way Frequency Crossover

With independent three-channel sound guide system and electronic frequency division controller, the SA6 MK2 features physical and electronic dual-way frequency division system. The pair has been adjusted with precisely controlled each frequency response. It coordinates the six balanced armature drivers for a smooth, natural sound with wide soundstage and excellent clarity.

Two Signatures With Two Tuning Modes

DUNU has featured a tuning switch on the SA6 MK2 that brings two differs sound signature to the users. The switch is easily operatable using fingers without the use for any specialised tool. The standard tuning mode (“1”) has accurate and balanced response and the ambience enhancement mode(“ON”) adds a bit of punch to the lower end. The Two modes can effectively expand and adapt to different music genres.

Exquisite Handcrafted Ear Shells
DUNU SA6 MK2 is crafted using exquisite craftsmanship. The ear shells are purely made by hand with many different complicated time-consuming processes, presenting a warm textured finish. The shells feature specially selected solid-stabilized wooden ear panels. Each panel has similar colors but different texture. They have resin mixed with gold powder that flows through the design and creates an elegant look.

Further Optimized Profile
The shape and profile of the shells has been optimised and upgraded with a newer auricle model. They now have a fuller shape, which effectively increases the display area of the beautiful designer panel while ensuring a comfortable wearing experience.

Upgraded Stock Cable
SA6 MK2 comes with Hulk Pro Mini high-purity stock cable. It adopts secondary refined high-purity Furukawa Single-Crystal Copper wire cores with independent aluminum foil shielding. It maintains excellent sound quality performance of the original Hulk Pro with an added lightweight design.

High-Quality Internal Wiring
In order to get the best performance with the Studio SA6 MK2, the internal wiring has been upgraded for the pair. The internal wire connections are now made using high-purity furukawa single-crystal copper silver-plated wiring.

Patented Q-Lock Plus Swappable Termination Plug System
The Hulk Pro Mini Upgrade Cable features DUNU’s patented Q-Lock Plus interchangeable termination plug system. It comes with 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced plugs in the package. Type-C, Lightning, and other plugs are required to be purchased separately.

Rich & Practical Accessories
SA6 MK2 comes with a bunch of high-quality and practical accessories that will make the user experience for the pair amazing. It includes latest S&S ear tips from S to XL sizes and a brand-new Leather storage box.

Latest reviews

momasealion

New Head-Fier
nigh peak all arounders
Pros: decent soundstage
great ba bass
unique sound signature
pretty versatile
Cons: instrument separation could be better
sound signiture might not be for everyone
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↓ receipts ↓


edm: dj sprinkles, everything but the girl, moodymann, sophie, sandwell district, nia archives

rap: isaiah rashad, the roots, gang starr, gucci mane, future

country: turnpike troubledors, zach bryan, kacey musgraves, hank williams

emo: braid, on the might of princess, charmer

folk: ichiko aroba, julien baker, talons’

pop: billie eilish, carly rae jepson, odd eye circle, aespa

soul: donny hathaway, the isley brothers, d'angelo, four tops, erykah badu

blues: elizabeth cotten, lightnin' hopkins, t-bone walker, son house

jazz: pharoah sanders, art blakey and the jazz messengers, clifford brown and max roach

classical: Iannis Xenakis, ryuichi sakamoto, arvo pärt, erik hall

noise: uboa, propergol, ramleh, la torture des ténèbres, the cherry point


some background to add: i’ve been trying and testing audiophile ear/headphones since around 2017 and this is the pair that got me wanting to write a review. so far the order has been akg k 240 mk Il, creative aurvana live!, beyerdynamic dt 770 Pro 80 ohm, google pixel buds pro, hifiman edition xs, and now the dunu sa6 mkll.


review: i got these as a mobile complement for my edition xs, i wanted a pair of iems less clinical than my xs so i tried picking one that looked interesting and with a bit of unique character. though the sa6 ended up becoming my main pair after an emergency to my edition xs.

and i have to say after a few months of only using these for home, i’m pretty impressed.


the sound signature: is fun, engaging, and expressive, a personal favorite of mine out of what i’ve tested. just enough of a bump to the bass and tweaking of the timbre to always keep me lost and immersed in the music, regardless of whatever genre i’m in the mood for


the soundstage: is good enough that i haven’t been missing my open back headphones like i thought i would. it is more than enough to satisfy me, and i’m more than happy to make these my endgame for the time (and budget…) being


the bass: balanced armature bass can be controversial from what i hear. granted these are my first ba drivers but from what i’ve heard in comparing sa6 to my dynamic and planner magnetic pairs, i think the bass here is probably my second favorite. the only pair i’ve tried that i feel outclasses the sa6’s bass is the edition xs. it’s full, deep, and with just enough rumble to help satisfy my growing house, techno, and dnb addictions


the mids: are enjoyable, detailed, and immersive. the vocals still tug on my heartstrings even with them being less of a priority in the sound signature


the timbre: isn’t earpiercy like my beyers or metallic like the edition xs, so i’m more than happy with it. i actually got these because i read they were smoothed out a bit, making everything so enjoyable and easy to listen to, from harsh noise to lofi black metal and low bitrate electropop.


which also ties to comfort: i’ve never actually got any fatigue or discomfort from these, even after using them over 14 hours a day. in fact, i’d even go as far to say they are the most comfy things i’ve put in my ears. though comfort with iems are mostly anecdotal with how much ear size and comfort varies per person.


i’m very satisfied with the sa6 mkll, and until they break i’m content to stick with them for however long that is, as for headphones… the aryas look very tempting

W0lrince

Previously known as Tzennn
Dunu SA6 MKII - Good but emotionless
Pros: - Good technical performent
- BA bass
Cons: - Emotionless tuning
- BA bass
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If you're interested in graph comparison, here's the link
+ i'm a normal asian dude with some music producing background
+ i like clean balanced sound signature with focus on sub bass and lower treble, especially looking for a good dynamism and harmonic playthrough, i like vocal, not necessary mid dominant, can consider myself as treblehead
+ 60-68db listening session
+ Avarage score 4/10 (Quarks/ 7hz Zero) Middle score 6/10 (Tanchjim Kara)
+ Bias score is i like it or not, doesn't sum on overall score
+ Same value systems like crinacle
Dunu SA6 MK2 (Switch OFF)
- Bass (6.5/10): With switch turn ON SA6 have better body but soundstage feels compress so i hate it. bass as expected from BA, good texture but tuning isn't the best
- Mid (7,8/10): Also detail but quite forceful, no emotions, separation is really good
- Vocal (6.3/10): idk man, from Harman tuned iem to this feels a little weird, not bad, just weird, it like so loud in your head that if i'm listening to someone shout i would jump
- Treble (9/10): Brilliant, brilliant, extensive
- Detail (8/10): Macro detail (8/10), Micro detail (8/10)
- Soundstage (8/10): Saturn kind of soundstage, very holo
- Imaging (7,5/10): Good stereo sound, lack layers and micro spacing
Bias (4/10): Mid centric
Overall: 7,5/10
Value: (niche)
Last edited:

SherryLion

New Head-Fier
Incredibly Detailed Yet Smooth Sound! The DUNU SA6 MK2
Pros: 1. Very well detailed and balanced sounding presentation
2. Detailed yet soothing treble
3. Appealing and captivating mid range
4. Punchy yet controlled bass
5. Great technical prowess
Cons: 1. Thinness of the notes across the high frequencies
2. Bass lacks the dynamics and heft to it.

Review Of The Dunu SA6 MK2


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Introduction


DUNU is a reputable firm that specializes in manufacturing cables and other electro-acoustic goods. Additionally, they offer their own line of eartips called Candy and S&S. The firm was commended for its technology and quality, and it was among the first to create modular cables with modular termination connectors. I have adored all of their IEMs, including the Vulcan, Kima series, Tales, SA6, and others, because of their excellent build quality, excellent sound quality, and superior aesthetics. I managed to obtain a pair of DUNU SA6 MKII for review purposes, despite the fact that it has been some time after their debut, but before, I would want to address a few points.

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Disclaimer


*This is a review unit, courtesy of Concept Kart. All thanks to them for providing. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “SA6 MKII.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the SA6 MKII based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.


Specification


Six balancing armature drivers make up the multi-driver arrangement of the SA6 MKII. Two Sonion woofers are used for low frequencies, Knowles twin midrange drivers are used for middle frequencies, and Knowles dual treble tweeters are used for high frequencies. Through a three-way frequency crossover, all of these drivers are connected and regulated. Unlike its predecessors, which had a more bespoke-looking shell from the nozzle side, this one is incredibly ergonomically designed. At the end of the day, they appear really different from other IEMs, so I would advise trying it before making any decisions. There were no problems or weariness felt when wearing or using it, even after listening for a long time. The faceplate is made of wood and has a layer of resin applied to maintain its original appearance. The DUNU Hulk mini cable, a premium two-pin cable with modular plug attachments at one end, is included with the IEMs. Additional accessories that come with the IEM include a carrying bag, modular plugs (3.5mm and 4.4mm), a cleaning brush, eartips in a variety of sizes, and a 3.5mm to 1/4inch connector. Regarding the technical details, the sensitivity is 114dB and the impedance is 24Ohms. The frequency response spans from 5 Hz to 40 kHz, with less than 0.5% of total harmonic distortion.

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***
Above Image Credits***

Sound


The balanced tuning of the SA6 MKII favors the mid range, making the sound open and more expressive, while the treble's spacious and airy response balances it out. The SA6 MKII's response is quite subtle and soothing, yet it's not depressing or laid back in the slightest; rather, it elicits an enthusiastic response rather than a tranquil one. The response is more in line with what I would have imagined from my Monarch MKII when compared to the SA6 MKII with Monarch MKII; nonetheless, the bass and treble are not as deep and expansive.In my perspective, the SA6 MKII is exceptional because, even after being advanced in the upper frequencies, it still sounds remarkably natural and smooth. While none of its competitors can equal what DUNU has accomplished with the SA6 MKII, it can still compete with IEMs that have tribid or hybrid drivers installed. What makes the BA so good is its ability to balance secure and polish with clarity and details. Let's take a closer look at the sound.

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Treble


The response of the treble area is quite calming and revealing, allowing for a safe and comprehensive response to that doesn't come off as aggressive. I mean, this is the first time I have heard a smooth response in the upper frequencies while still generating amazing details—especially when it comes to an all-BA set. The vocals, which often sound open and forward, don't appear to come over as such in places where the upper treble, which has excellent air and wide response, seems a touch muted. Conversely, the tones of the instruments are lively but round; they don't sound harsh or metallic. The lower treble brings the notes forward and vibrant, all the while sounding forward and with a strong feeling of tonal correctness. The response highlights the light and energetic sound of the instruments and singers, while also exhibiting lean features that may deviate from a natural sound. However, the impact of these notes isn't heavy, which may disclose such response. As a result, the treble region's overall appearance is vast, light, and calming.

Mid Range


In terms of the mid range, I was astounded by the contrast and intricacies that each note could offer; the delicately smooth yet crisp intensity created a soothing and invigorating sound. The primary cause of it was that neither the instruments nor the vocals were really thrust forward. The note sounds a little different in my opinion because of its occurrence and unusual presentation without depending too much on energy, which also suitably separates the vocalist's presence from the surrounding instruments in a large area. Similar energy was resonant in the upper mid range as in the lower treble, but the presentation is more enjoyable to listen to. However, while listening to livelier or even basic tunes, the voices occasionally tend to sound off-key. The instruments and vocals sound clear and beautifully detailed, especially the female vocals, which captivate and enliven you with their light and open response. The voices and the instruments seem upfront and dense, but not thick or heavy, which drowns out and leaves the sound wobbly and mumbly. The lower mid range plays a significant role in creating this lively yet peaceful response. The notes should have depth and thickness; some may claim that they do, but I think it sounds a little strange and odd. The clarity in this area also contributes to the sound's pleasing quality. However, once more, the notes are helped in by the dense response produced by the lower mid range. Compared to thin, the higher frequencies should sound more genuine. As a result, the mid range area is presented in a pleasant, revealing, and fascinating manner overall.

Bass


Getting to the bass, I think it makes the entire response right. By which I mean that the bass responds very well, allowing for a more controlled yet effective response that influences the warmth into the lower mid range. Although many people may be aware, the BA bass has a certain quantity and quality to it. It used to sound more puffy than thump, but that is usually not the case these days. In contrast, the SA6 MKII exhibits a more punchy and rumbly bass instead of a thumping and booming sound because the bass is more prominent in the sub bass region. Although the quantity of the guitar slams isn't quite there, they do sound satisfying. However, I do agree that the bass has a nice, detailed, and controlled feel. Like previously indicated, the mid bass has a good heft and presence but doesn't sound particularly powerful or engaging—rather, it sounds warm. The emphasis is in the subbas region, which tends to sound deep and punchy. Ultimately, I think the bass is done really well; I'm not sure about the earlier models, but I do think this pair is unique compared to others on the market, particularly its competitors. Overall, the bass response is punchy, rumbly, and controlled in its presentation.

Technical Performance


The technical skill of the DUNU SA6 MKII is another feature that makes me adore them even more. I think that every aspect of them, from the imaging to the layering to the details, is done to the highest standard. I find the SA6 MKII to sound more refined and immersive, even though its peers have a more expansive, open, and vast sounding response. However, even the stage is quite roomy; let's delve deeper into the specifics.

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Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation


The response is more holographic, the notes are firmly present and positioned to create a very nicely staged presentation that is nicely spread out, and because the stage is not greatly expanded, the presentation becomes more engaging. It was a surreal experience for me because of the crisp, clear imaging that enhances the overall clarity of the notes and the precise layering and separation that makes the notes stand out more.

Speed & Resolution


The resolution of this all-BA IEM is the best I have heard of, but the details are not crisp or metallic—rather, they are smooth but not soft, with the micro details being particularly notable as well as the macro details are also certainly revealing. Although I find the notes' attack and decay to be a little off, their rapid pace effectively resolves the presentation and prevents it from sounding disorganized.

Sound Impressions


Bass Switch


Although I didn't think there was much of a difference, it was effective where it mattered. The response did sound less thrilling and more balanced in the higher frequencies when I turned on the switch. Additionally, I discovered that the thinness that occasionally surfaced when I listened to upbeat music or, more especially, female vocals, was subdued and seemed more realistic to me. Although the bass felt strong and powerful as well, which contributed to the bass sounding more pounding and dynamic, I think the bass of the dynamic driver is far superior. I found the differences to be subtle, but for other listeners, they will have a greater effect.

Sources


Sony WM1A - The response from this pair was exactly what I could have hoped for when listening to SA6 MKII with the WM1A. It sounds very wholesome and well-balanced because of the notes' roundness and fullness. Whether it's the vocals or the instruments, both maintain the same level of quality and quantity while adding a comforting warmth. Although the same can be said for the other sources I tried, I think this pairing has a more natural presentation and heavier notes. The treble sounds more expansive and removes the subdued effect, while the bass is also less controlled and causes a natural decay.

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Tempotec V6 - I find that the more transparent and detail-revealing sound of the SA6 MKII when paired with the V6 sounds a little too expressive. The vocals frequently start to sound metallic because the response is more focused on the upper mid range and lower treble while the bass is more in control, making it sound a little sharper than before. However, I find that listening to tracks with a lot of bass has a very enjoyable and fun sound quality because of the impact and cleanliness of the bass as well as the sparkling high notes.


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Kiwi Ears Allegro - When listening to SA6 MK2 with Allegro, the sound seemed more personal, which made it easier to understand the notes' sharpness and differentiate them. The response was all pushed forward, from bass to high, yet the coherence and balance in between seemed organic and seamless. However, I did notice that listening to busy or complicated tunes made it difficult to pick up on subtleties because of the forward and near response, but the bass also felt more prominent and forceful. Even yet, I continue to like its meticulous and sterile presentation.

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Tracks


Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun


Conclusion


Ultimately, the DUNU SA6 MKII is a fantastic all-around BA IEM because of its subtle yet calming response, which captivates you whether you're listening to tracks with Vocal specific tracks or Bass heavy tracks. The SA6 MKII is a truly unique piece of art, and I had a great time listening it. For that reason, I heartily recommend it to anyone looking for a detailed and engaging sounding response.

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Comments

d m41n man

100+ Head-Fier

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS​

  • Can you confirm that the MK2 will have the same 60Ω impedance as the original SA6?
    Hello, not the same, according to the existing specifications, it is not 60Ω. MK2 is 24 Ω impedance. Thanks
  • What is the sound signature of new SA6?
    1. Refined treble response improving clarity.
    2. Better fit and noise isolation due to more secure fit.
    The 3-5 kHz dip was adjusted for better vocal clarity and instrument separation.
    3. Better bass and treble extension while maintaining the resolution.
    4. Default mode is Ultra with a slight bass boost and improved treble.
    The switch now completely changes the bass response, focusing especially on the subbass and middbass without affecting vocals or clarity.
    5. By increasing the bass on the MKII, the listener will experience a more engaging sound while still maintaining a clean midrange. The bass mode on the MKII provides even more bass than the standard mode.
    6. The MKII's upper midrange is smoother than ultra, which results in a more accurate representation of vocals and instruments.
  • Is it easy to drive?
    It is easy to drive. Easier than Z12, Starfield, Blessing, Timeless, P2 etc
  • Is the cable same as OG SA6 or Ultra ?
    It is Hulk mini pro cable same as Ultra, but without 2.5mm jack in MKII due to a lack of interest from the users, and this also helps to cut costs and make the SA6 MKII more affordable.
  • I have purchased before, but it is small for me, what are the size for eartips in this time?
    We listened to other buyers' suggestions for the same S&S earbuds as before, but this time added a 13mm XL size for the S&S eartips.
  • Is the MKII comfortable to wear?
    The MKII have been optimized for the most comfortable wearing experience while remaining stylish.
  • What does the switch on the MKII do?
    The switch on the MKII changes the sound signature from neutral with a slight bass boost to neutral with a bigger bass boost and noticeable clarity and air and is best used when listening to music that requires a more pronounced bass response. This includes genres such as hip-hop and EDM.
  • Are the red patterns on the faceplate the same for each IEM?
    No, each IEM has a unique set of red patterns on the wooden faceplate. This adds to the individuality and exclusivity of the product.
 
Last edited:

gto88

Headphoneus Supremus
The uncertainty of shell face pattern is a concern of hate or like.
I had EE hero before, it has swirl pattern like this one and made "Hero" almost unseen from the face, which looked bad.
 

ListenerM

New Head-Fier
I've gotta say, these get better and better the more I listen to them... It seems like everything I have tried above them just isn't THAT much better
It took weeks of listening for these to grow on me, now its really the only set I use. Coming up on a year of ownership and constant daily listening here soon!
 
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