For a brand universally acclaimed for their affordable hi-fi items, Moondrop’s new flagship might appear out of place. Released as a successor to the 12, the Armature Art 24 throws the brand into the deeper end of IEMs. To traverse these waters, Moondrop pushes a precise yet gripping sound signature through 24 drivers and quality materials. If Moondrop can already do so much with so little, what can they accomplish when the budget expands?
Package Contains
- AA24 Earphone
- Cable (4.4mm Balanced Cable / 3.5mm Single-ended Adapter Cable)
- Storage Bag
- Anime-girl Card
- Ear-tips (3 Pairs Large, 3 Pairs Medium, 3 Pairs Small)
- Manual
- Wearing Guidance
- Certificate
- Service Card
Build Design
Even if Moondrop’s anime-themed packaging pigeonholes them into a very subjective style, I believe the AA24’s more reserved take will not drive away those who dislike the aesthetic. Deferring from their typical “girl with white backdrop” approach, the AA24 frames her in an artistic set piece with a hue similar to the IEM’s golden faceplate. Inner tech and texture patterns cleverly shape the surrounding architecture. The final result is a great compromise between the established Moondrop identity and unique product appeal.
While their branding is definitely to taste, I would not say the same regarding the products themselves. My bias for industrial designs might be showing, but the AA24 is a welcome addition to Moondrop’s lineup of stunning IEMs. The ice flower pattern of the ferroalloy faceplate is flexible enough to compliment both the curved text and rigid driver outline. Glacial theming carries into the clear shell, allowing for crystalesque view of the 24 driver setup.
Build quality feels impeccably durable, especially in the case of its hybrid cable. Made of premium single-crystal copper and pure silver, the AA24’s cable feels both tough and flexible. As for fit, the larger shell was ergonomic enough to fit comfortably in my ears without issue. However, its nozzles are quite wide, making the use of third party tips more size-reliant.
Audio Design
Believe it or not, the Armature Art 24 is designed with 24 balanced armatures. Ingenious naming conventions aside, Moondrop positions them to push reference accuracy and soundstage dimension. The AA24 allocates 16 of these drivers to its bass as part of their “SUBWOOFER” module, arranging them into pairs at a gradually delayed sequence for increased sonic realism. Mid-highs and upper treble split the other eight, utilizing aluminum magnesium alloy diaphragms to smooth the sound and offset the potential issues of multiple frequency-dedicated drivers.
- Frequency Response Range: 7Hz-35kHz
- Impedance: 5.8Ω±15% (@1kHz)
- Sensitivity: 119dB/Vrms (@1kHz)
Soundstage
Coming off reviewing more entry-level IEMs, I almost forgot how great these soundstages could truly be. Precision is the name of the game with the AA24, with instruments being fully anchored in their positions. Fortunately, this does feel too clinical or isolating. The soundstage has a circular resonance that keeps everything dimensional and cleanly layered. Width and height feel especially expansive, making the AA24’s articulacy that much more notable.
Low End
Given the bass has quadruple the drivers of the other ranges, one might think it runs away with the entire signature. However, the AA24 continues its dedication to reference sound with a bass that is more meticulous than massive. Notes have the space to feel round and dynamic with a natural timbre.This particular tuning breathed new life into Weather Report’s “Teen Town,” providing ample room for Jaco’s bass shredding to glide with a distinctly musical weight. Bassheads should not worry too much, particularly big moments still have the power and rumble they need.
Mids
Opting to dedicate their drivers to the mid-highs, the overall frequency range tends to run a bit brighter. Lower instruments fade into the background in a way that is comfortable, but will disappoint some. Vocals still have a crisp, accurate feel that keeps them compelling. In support of standout bass and treble response, Moondrop trims mid fat and keeps enough to sustain the range.
Highs
Speaking of standout treble response, the extra support the AA24 provides the highs allows them to be delectably crisp. As was true with the other ranges, the highs are precision first with accentual gloss. The unique dual focus for the mid and upper treble gives extra attention to capturing the entire spectrum. This results in a high that can be fast and snappy whilst shimmering, keeping to the AA24’s philosophy.
Summary
Moondrop’s notoriety as a brand that fights far above its price point even extends to their $1500 flagship. With its distinct driver setup and high-end design, the AA24 crafts a sound with pinpoint precision and astute musicality. Listeners seeking a natural reference style should put this IEM in strong contention. For someone wanting grandiose excitement, the Campfire Bonneville has a more exaggerated signature.
The Moondrop Audio Armature Art 24 is available at Audio46.
