Moondrop Rays Review 

 

Introduction:

The Moondrop Rays In-Ear Monitors represent Moondrop’s expansion into the gaming peripheral sector. These IEMs incorporate a hybrid driver configuration, combining a 10mm dynamic driver with a sapphire-plated diaphragm and a 6mm annular planar magnetic driver. This design aims to provide a sound profile suitable for both gaming and general music listening. Developed through collaboration with professional esports players, the Rays are stated to offer enhanced spatial audio performance and zero-latency audio transmission. They also integrate several features intended for gaming applications, including a built-in digital signal processing (DSP) gaming sound card and an AI noise-canceling microphone.

This analysis will examine the Moondrop Rays’ design, construction quality, sound characteristics, and performance within gaming contexts, highlighting their adaptability for various audio applications.

 

Disclaimer:

I would like to thank Shenzhen Audio and Moondrop for providing me the Rays for review purposes. I am not affiliated with Shenzhen Audio and Moondrop beyond this review and these words reflect my true and unaltered opinions about the product.

 

Price & Availability:

The Moondrop Rays are priced at $99.99 USD, placing them in the budget category for IEMs. More information’s can be found under the link below;

• Moondrop Rays In-Ear Monitor

  

Box Design & Unboxing Experience:

The Moondrop Rays arrive in a visually striking package that reflects their gaming heritage, featuring a dual-box design. The outer layer is a protective cardboard sleeve on the left, adorned with an artistic illustration of a character from the “Gravity” theme, holding a futuristic weapon, alongside the bold “RAYS” logo and technical details in a sleek, modern layout.

The inner main box on the right sports a minimalist white design with radiating lines and the “MOONDROP RAYS” branding, offering a clean contrast to the sleeve.

Inside, the package contains:

• 1x pair of Moondrop Rays IEMs
• 1x mic cable (dark green, braided single crystal copper with inline microphone and USB Type-C termination)
• 1x storage case (a compact, brown leatherette case with a gold clasp, branded “MOONDROP”)
• 3x pairs of silicone eartips (S, M, L)
• 1x USB-C to A cable (for compatibility with non-Type-C devices)
• 1x user manual (a concise guide with setup and tuning instructions)
• 1x brand card (a card featuring the “MOONDROP RAYS” logo and additional branding)

The included accessories are practical for the price, offering essentials for both gaming and music use.

The storage case provides decent protection, though the limited eartip variety might not suit all users.

 

Design, Build Quality and Fit:

The Moondrop Rays In-Ear Monitors feature a striking design that blends gaming functionality with audiophile aesthetics, showcasing a glossy, translucent finish that highlights their unique appeal. The color of the shell is a vibrant, translucent green, contributing to a modern and eye-catching appearance that resonates with both gamers and audiophiles on a budget.

The Rays are crafted using medical-grade, 3D-printed resin in collaboration with HeyGears Technology, that is both lightweight and skin-friendly. This advanced 3D printing process allows for a ergonomic shape while maintaining structural integrity. The translucent green resin shell reveals a glimpse of the internal hybrid driver setup, adding a layer of visual intrigue.

The faceplates showcase a teardrop-shaped design with an iridescent, prismatic finish, giving the IEMs a modern and captivating look. The surface transitions from a deep blue at the center to vibrant purple and green hues toward the edges, creating a mesmerizing gradient effect that catches light beautifully. Fine, radiating lines etched into the faceplate add texture and depth, while the prominently displayed “Rays” logo, alongside “Moondrop” in smaller text, adds a touch of brand identity and sophistication.

The inner surface is ergonomically designed and has a smooth, contoured teardrop shape aligns with the natural curvature of the ear. A small circular vent is strategically placed near the sound nozzle to aid airflow and pressure regulation, enhancing the Rays’ open, airy sound signature crucial for spatial awareness in gaming, though it slightly reduces noise isolation.

The IEMs come with integrated sound nozzles featuring a fine mesh filter on top. The nozzles are designed with a fixed profile, optimized for a balanced fit across various ear canal sizes, ensuring comfort and sound focus. The mesh filter protects the hybrid driver setup, a 10mm sapphire-plated diaphragm dynamic driver paired with a 6mm annular planar magnetic driver, while optimizing sound delivery for both gaming precision and musical clarity.

The 2-pin connector interface is robust, featuring metal-encased pins for a secure connection.

The included mic cable is a dark green, braided single crystal copper design, perfectly complementing the translucent green shell while offering durability and tangle resistance. At 1.2m, the cable balances portability and flexibility, featuring an inline module with a microphone and a single button in a matching purple finish.

The microphone, equipped with NPU hardware-level AI noise cancellation, ensures clear communication by reducing environmental noise, a vital feature for gaming.

The cable terminates in a USB Type-C connector, also in purple, integrating a built-in DSP gaming sound card for high-resolution audio, zero-latency performance, and customizable tuning via a professional interface.

Overall, the Moondrop Rays IEMs combine functional gaming elements with a sleek, contemporary design, making them decent choice for both esports players and audiophiles. The thoughtful design ensures a comfortable wearing experience, precise audio delivery, and practical usability for both competitive gaming and immersive music listening.

 

Connectivity & DSP Customization: 

The Moondrop Rays utilize a USB Type-C connection and a built-in DSP gaming sound card, ensuring compatibility with modern devices such as smartphones, laptops, gaming consoles, and PCs that support Type-C audio output. With an impedance of 30Ω±15% and a sensitivity of 120dB/Vrms, they are relatively easy to drive, though performance is influenced by the source device’s capabilities and the integrated DSP, which enables zero-latency playback.

The DSP allows for extensive customization through the Moondrop Link software and web-based app, providing users with control over filter type, frequency point, gain, and Q value. Pre-defined EQ presets and community-shared profiles offer tailored sound options for both music and gaming.

The built-in DSP also supports memory tuning, enabling users to store preferred configurations for quick access, while OTA firmware updates ensure ongoing improvements. Additionally, the included USB-C to A cable extends compatibility to older devices, adding versatility.

 

Technical Specifications:

• Model: Rays
• Driver Configuration: 10mm sapphire-plated diaphragm dynamic driver + 6mm annular planar magnetic driver
• Impedance: 30Ω±15%
• Sensitivity: 120dB/Vrms
• Frequency Response: 7Hz–39kHz
• Effective Frequency Response Range: 20Hz–20kHz
• THD+N: ≤0.05%
• Connector: 0.78mm 2-pin
• Cable Specs: Braided single crystal copper cable with inline microphone and DSP
• Plug Type: USB Type-C with built-in gaming sound card
• Cable Length: 1.2m

 

Sources used for this review: 

• IEM’s              : Moondrop Rays, Shanling Sono
• USB Source  : Samsung M23, MSI Vector GP68 HX

 

Albums & tracks used for this review:

• Norah Jones – Come Away With Me (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Norah Jones – Don’t Know Why (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Adele – My Little Love (Deezer HiFi)
• Sarah McLachlan – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Sertap Erener – Aşk (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Edith Piaf – Non Je Ne Regrette Rien (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Diana Krall – So Wonderful (DSF)
• Aretha Franklin – I Say A Little Payer (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• George Michael – Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• David Bowie – Heroes (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Elton John – Rocket Man ((Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Barry White – Just The Way You Are (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Isaac Hayes – Walk On By (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Sting – Englishman in New York – (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Dave Gahan – Kingdom (Tidal Hi-Fi)
• Radiohead – Live in Berlin “Album” (Deezer HiFi)
• Radiohead – Pyramid Song (Deezer HiFi)
• U2 – Sunday Bloody Sunday (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Muse – Hysteria (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Red Hot Chili Peppers – Nobody Weird Like Me (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Bear McCreary’s – Valkyries (Deezer HiFi)
• Bro Safari, UFO! – Drama (Deezer HiFi)
• Armin Van Buuren – Vini Vici (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Daft Punk – Giorgio by Moroder (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Daft Punk – Doin’ it Right (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Lorde – Royals (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Massive Attack – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Toutant – Rebirth (Deezer HiFi)
• Gogo Penguin – Raven (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Gogo Penguin – Murmuration (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Portishead – It Could Be Sweet (Spotify)
• Max Richter – On the Nature of Daylight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Charly Antolini – Duwadjuwandadu (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 5 (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Stevie Ray Vaughan – Riviera Paradise (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Ferit Odman – Look, Stop & Listen (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Chopin – Nocturn No. 20 In C-Sharp Minor (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Clair de Lune – Claude Debussy (Spotify)
• Fazıl Say – Nazım Oratoryosu (Live) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Vivaldi – Le QuarttroStagioni “The Four Season” (Deezer HiFi)
• Miles Davis – So What (Deezer HiFi)
• Otto Liebert& Luna Negra – The River (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Lunatic Soul – The Passage (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Deftones – My Own Summer (Shove it) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Metallica – Dyers Eve (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Metallica – Sad but True (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Opeth – Windowpane (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Megadeth – Sweating Bullets (Tidal Hi-Fi)
• Rush’s – Tom Sawyer (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Slayer – Angel of Death (Spotify)
• Liquid Tension Experiment 2 – Acid Rain (Spotify)
• Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles (Spotify)

 

 

The Sound:

The Moondrop Rays IEM’s are designed in mind for both playing games and listening to music. To check how well they perform, I first played audio through them for 50 hours. I used the stock silicone ear tips that come with the IEM’s and set them to a normal sound mode for gaming. Then, I tested them with both my music sources (listed above) and with some popular video games.

The sound produced by these IEM had strong bass, clear middle sounds, and detailed high notes. They also made sounds seem to come from different directions, which is very helpful in games. The sound felt wide and accurate, making it easy to hear where sounds are coming from in games. This also means they work well for listening to all kinds of music.

This review has been written after a burn-in period of about 50 Hours. I have used the silicone ear tips and the stock USB Type-C cable that are included to the package. My sound impressions below are based on my experiences with sources like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (Smartphone) and MSI Vector GP68 HX (Gaming Laptop).

Bass / Midrange / Treble / Soundstage & Imaging:

The 10mm sapphire-plated dynamic driver delivers controlled bass, emphasizing midbass punch over deep subbass extension. In Daft Punk’s “Giorgio by Moroder,” kick drums feel tight and impactful, energizing the track, while the bassline maintains texture and drive, though lacking deep subbass rumble typical of high-end IEMs. In Valorant, explosions and gunfire carry weight without overpowering other frequencies, ensuring critical audio cues like footsteps remain clear. The bass avoids muddiness, benefiting competitive gaming. Users seeking deep subbass in EDM or hip-hop might need DSP adjustments for added low-end presence. For a budget IEM, the bass is balanced, functional, and distortion-free at moderate volumes.

The hybrid driver setup enhances midrange clarity for both music and gaming. In Norah Jones’ “Come Away With Me,” vocals sound warm and natural, capturing tonal texture, though upper midrange nuances are less pronounced than in premium IEMs. In gaming, midrange supports team communication in Valorant, aided by an AI noise-canceling mic that keeps voice clarity sufficient for coordination. However, complex in-game layers such as gunfire, footsteps, and ambient sounds can feel slightly compressed compared to high-end models with better separation. The midrange remains neutral and practical for its price, though DSP tweaks may enhance vocal clarity for speech-focused use or vocal-heavy music.

The 6mm planar magnetic driver delivers treble clarity, aiding spatial cues. In Metallica’s “Sad but True,” cymbals sound clean with subtle sparkle, avoiding harshness for comfortable long listening sessions. In CS:GO, treble accuracy supports spatial awareness, allowing distinct recognition of footsteps and distant gunfire, aligning with the IEM’s esports focus. Treble avoids sibilance, remaining smooth for prolonged use, though it lacks high-end airiness needed for fine harmonic detail in classical music. At $99.99, treble performance is adequate for gaming clarity. Audiophiles may find upper-frequency extension lacking, requiring DSP tweaks for added brightness.

The vented design and DSP tuning give the Rays a spacious soundstage, enhancing immersion in both music and gaming. In Valorant, directional cues such as footsteps and gunfire are decently placed, supporting enemy tracking in competitive play. Soundstage width is surprisingly broad for a budget IEM, adding depth without reaching the refinement of premium models. Music benefits from openness, though imaging precision for instrument placement and layered effects remains moderate. Community EQ profiles allow customization, widening the soundstage for open-world games or narrowing it for vocal-centric tracks. The open design slightly leaks sound, a trade-off for enhanced spatial performance.

Comparison:

Moondrop Rays versus Shanling Sono:

The Moondrop Rays and Shanling Sono, both priced around $99.99, present different experiences tailored for gaming and music enthusiasts. The Rays utilize a hybrid driver setup, combining a 10mm dynamic driver with a 6mm planar driver. In contrast, the Sono employs a dual dynamic driver setup, featuring a 9.2mm and a 6.8mm driver in a coaxial design, intended to produce a more unified sound.

The Moondrop Rays deliver a rich, dynamic sound signature. This is characterized by a punchy and well-defined bass that adds impact without overwhelming the other frequencies. The midrange frequencies are notably clear, ensuring vocals and instruments are reproduced with fidelity and presence. Moving to the higher frequencies, the treble is detailed and extends smoothly, revealing intricate nuances in recordings. This overall sound profile is particularly optimized for gaming, providing enhanced spatial performance. For instance, in a fast-paced game like Valorant, the Rays’ spatial clarity offers a distinct competitive advantage, allowing players to accurately pinpoint enemy footsteps and other critical in-game audio cues. Beyond gaming, their musical versatility shines through when listening to tracks from artists like Daft Punk, where the blend of powerful bass and clear highs creates an engaging and immersive experience across electronic genres.

In contrast, reviews suggest the Shanling Sono offers a brighter and more intimate sound. This often comes with a pronounced 5kHz peak, which can be advantageous for genres like jazz, bringing out the sparkle in cymbals and the clarity of certain instruments. However, this brightness can also lead to a less versatile sound profile. For example, in complex tracks from bands like Metallica, the Sono’s bass can sometimes feel less defined or “smeared,” lacking the tightness and precision needed to articulate rapid low-end passages. Furthermore, the treble, particularly around the 5kHz mark, may demonstrate shrillness, potentially leading to listener fatigue, a stark difference from the Rays’ smoother high-frequency reproduction.

The Rays’ wider soundstage proves beneficial not only in gaming, where precise audio positioning is crucial, but also in genres like orchestral music, where it effectively conveys the breadth and depth of a performance. Conversely, the Sono’s more intimate soundstage is well-suited for vocal-focused genres, creating a close and personal listening experience, but it may struggle to reproduce the complexity and grandeur of more expansive musical arrangements.

  

 

Conclusion:

The Moondrop Rays offer a balanced sound profile suitable for casual listeners, gamers, and audiophiles, delivering clear midrange, fairly well-defined treble resolution, and pretty controlled bass. With a price of $99.99, they remain accessible to a wide range of users looking for versatile sound quality. The hybrid driver setup ensures a refined listening experience across various genres, while the spatial performance enhances immersion without being solely gaming-focused. Their 3D-printed resin shell and iridescent faceplate contribute to a sleek design, complementing their adaptable tuning. DSP customization allows users to fine-tune the sound for different preferences, making them suitable for both music enjoyment and more detailed audio reproduction.

 

Pros & Cons:

• + Premium 3D-printed resin shell with stunning iridescent faceplate
• + Rich, dynamic sound with punchy bass, clear midrange, and detailed treble
• + Wide, immersive soundstage with enhanced spatial performance for gaming
• + Comfortable, ergonomic design for long sessions
• + Built-in DSP gaming sound card with customizable tuning
• + AI noise-canceling microphone for clear in-game communication
• + Versatile for both gaming and music listening
• + Stylish dual-box packaging with storage case

 

• – Sub-bass could extend deeper for bass-heavy genres
• – Comes only with the Type-C cable (No 3.5mm SE or 4.4mm BAL cable option)
• – Limited eartip variety (only three pairs)

 

Thank you for the Read!