I heard this in another sub, that only tuning matters for IEMs but I’m not seeing it.
Aside from tuning what parts are giving advantages? The housing, the drivers, the materials used?
Example, the truthear nova ($150) is tuned nearly the same as the moondrop variations ($520). Does that mean they would have the same sound quality?
It’s sad you’re getting downvoted for this, this subreddit is so reductivist and loves trashing any advice that doesn’t validate their budget options. Yes, there are diminishing returns and e.g. although an apple dongle is amazing for what it is, there are definitely better sources out there whether or not you are willing to admit/perceive they provide better sound. There are definitely differences in IEMs besides frequency response e.g. detail retrieval etc., and although some people may suggest frequency response may play a role in shaping these differences, it doesn’t mean they’re not useful in addressing them directly and independently.