Audio accessory champions ddHifi began dabbling into earphones just last year, and have since kept up their production of affordable models that don’t compromise quality. 2026 has seen the release of the Skyfall and Iris IEMs in India, as well as two revisions of the Memory, one of their original models from 2025.
Working again with MOONDROP, the Memory 4.4 trades the original USB-C input for its cable-based namesake whilst revamping tuning and acoustics through two different material options. Looking at the model designed with copper palladium plated chassis, the Pd4.4, is the Memory 4.4 a proper step ahead of the original?
Package Contents:
- Memory Earphones
- S-Size ST35 Eartips (Pre-installed)
- Additional Eartips: One Pair Each of S/M/L Sizes
- CZ120B Black Storage Case
- Manual, Warranty Card, and Certificate of Compliance
Visual Design
As the name might imply, the Memory design philosophy hinges on recapturing bygone audio nostalgia. Retro-future aesthetics aren’t exactly new in the audiophile space, but are noticeably rarer in IEMs. The Memory Pd4.4 is a uniform chrome with a simplistic stem-like shell, deferring from the innovative color and shape ambitions common in the in-ear space. While I do aesthetically love the finish of the Pd4.4, it is significantly more prone to visible prints and blemishes in comparison to the aluminum version, the AL4.4.
Having a standard earbud design provides the Memory line a head start in terms of comfort, but places more demand in proper fit. The sense of security with a standard IEM’s wrap-around setup isn’t there, but the smaller build of the 4.4 stays sealed, snugly supported by the innermost part of your ear. Where the 4.4 does feel distinctly safe is in its build quality, which feels dense and reliable.
Audio Design
MOONDROP returns for the 4.4’s configuration, challenging a 13mm planar driver to strive beyond its contemporaries through a double-suspended structure and four-magnet array. This design increases driver efficiency and limits distortion, allowing the driver to squeeze even more power across the frequency spectrum whilst maintaining the precision planar designs are known for. In addition, a redesign of the front and rear chamber vents provide a cleaner acoustic profile than the original Memory. The 4.4 cable broadens connection capabilities, enabling a larger scope of audio sources.
Unique to the specific models are their housing materials and cables, contributing to tighter sonic variance and slight difference in pricing. The Pd4.4 uses palladium-plated pure copper for its housing, and a custom black braided 6N OCC cable, giving the Pd4.4 stronger passive isolation.
- Effective FR: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Impedance: 16Ω±15% (@1kHz)
- Sensitivity: 121dB/Vrms (@1kHz)
- THD: ≤0.1% (@1kHz)
Soundstage
Efforts made to alter the Memory for the 4.4 craft a soundstage that is simultaneously impressive and disappointing. As far as layering and placement go, the Memory 4.4 is astounding at its price range. Instruments are so easily picked out when focused yet remain as decipherable when amongst busier mixes. Width and vertical potential don’t create the most expansive space I’ve felt in an IEM, but it is likely the intimate stage that fortifies the 4.4’s aforementioned strengths.
Unfortunately, the stage layout does not support its lack of depth. These overwhelming positives are slightly limited by a feeling of flatness barely offset by a taut fluctuation in the center. Although this is a bit of a letdown, I do not think this dimension discrepancy should discredit an otherwise standout soundstage. For someone desiring something concise and void of stage overcompensation, the Memory 4.4 is truly fantastic.
Low End
The low end on the 4.4 is not going to blow minds nor speakers, but it achieves exactly what a planar driver sets out to do. Dynamic precision feels most substantial at this range, giving realized notes that are more supportive than forceful. Bass guitar and synth hits have a round, bouncy quality that make them mutually rich. Kick drums don’t reap as much polish, though they possess a consistent speed that keeps them uniquely rewarding.
Mids
Midrange is left mostly neutral, with vocal frequencies somewhat emphasized. Instruments are kept warmer, working to accentuate more impactful singing performances. I found this setup to work best with singer/songwriter music, where instrumentals fundamentally exist to support them.
Highs
Akin to its polar opposite range, the highest ends develop a crisp, speedy flavor. Highs are absent of overreaching gloss, instead being more attentive around the lower ranges. Even if that makes them less sparkly, it keeps to the consistency of the Memory 4.4 whilst ensuring it is not too bright.
Summary
ddHiFi’s update to the original Memory reflects its re-imagined technology as a seriously efficient IEM. There are no fancy bells or whistles, no grandiose qualities that distract the sound, and no overwhelming visual motifs. The Memory 4.4 makes its money on tight design ideology and fluid sound that stays attentive at every frequency. Spectacle-hungry listeners might find its intimacy and rigid identity unsatisfying, but those craving a direct, plug-and-play experience will find a lot to like with the 4.4.
Both versions of the ddHiFi Memory 4.4 are available at Audio46. The Memory Pd4.4Â retails for $189.99 and the Memory AL4.4Â retails for $159.99.
