MOONDROP EVO 2 brings wireless connectivity and advanced DSP to existing IEMs

The MOONDROP EVO 2 is a true wireless ear-hook DAC and amplifier designed to bring Bluetooth connectivity to compatible in-ear monitors. Built around MOONDROP's custom TWS-01 Bluetooth master chip and a high-efficiency Class-D digital amplifier, it supports high-resolution wireless transmission through LDAC and LHDC-V, Bluetooth LE Audio through LC3, and a second-generation DSP system with a 10-band parametric equalizer. With up to 15 hours of playback per charge, a protective charging case, and replaceable earphone connectors, the EVO 2 provides a wireless alternative for listeners who want to continue using their existing IEMs.

Custom Bluetooth architecture and Class-D amplification

At the center of the EVO 2 is MOONDROP's custom TWS-01 Bluetooth master control chip, paired with a Class-D digital power amplifier. According to MOONDROP, the amplifier operates at over 90% efficiency, reducing power consumption while providing the output required to drive connected earphones. This high-efficiency architecture also contributes to the EVO 2's extended battery life.

Audio is transferred between the Bluetooth master chip and amplifier through digital audio channels, which are intended to minimize interference within the circuit. The EVO 2 uses Bluetooth 6.0 and supports A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, and HSP profiles, covering wireless audio playback, remote control, and voice communication. Its specified wireless range is approximately 10 meters in an open environment.

Second-generation DSP with a 10-band parametric equalizer

The EVO 2 incorporates MOONDROP's second-generation online interactive DSP system, giving users control over the frequency response of their connected earphones. Through the MOONDROP app, a 10-band parametric equalizer allows individual frequency bands to be adjusted, providing considerably more control than a conventional fixed-band equalizer.

The system also supports frequency-response data references and automatic tuning toward a selected target curve. Users can create and save personalized configurations, download tuning profiles shared by other users, and distribute their own settings through links. This allows different IEMs to be tuned individually while retaining access to their respective configurations within the app.

High-resolution Bluetooth transmission with LDAC and LHDC-V

The EVO 2 supports multiple Bluetooth audio codecs, including SBC, AAC, LDAC, LHDC, and LC3. LDAC supports transmission at up to 24-bit/96 kHz, while LHDC-V extends the supported transmission format to 24-bit/192 kHz. Both codecs require compatible source devices, and the available transmission format also depends on the capabilities of the connected hardware.

LHDC-V additionally supports adaptive transmission, allowing the connection to respond to signal strength, environmental interference, and device performance. This helps manage wireless transmission under changing connection conditions. MOONDROP notes that enabling high-resolution codecs can increase power consumption, so battery life will vary depending on codec selection and operating conditions.

Bluetooth LE Audio and low-latency gaming

LC3 support allows the EVO 2 to operate with Bluetooth LE Audio on compatible devices. The Low Complexity Communication Codec is designed to provide efficient audio compression within the LE Audio framework, supporting high-quality transmission with reduced latency and efficient use of available bandwidth. MOONDROP implements LC3 through a separate Bluetooth connection identified by an "LEA" device name, which must be enabled manually through the app before use.

A dedicated game mode provides another option for applications where audio delay matters. MOONDROP specifies a target latency of 60 ms based on the Bluetooth chip specification, although actual end-to-end latency will depend on the connected source and operating conditions. Four taps on either ear-hook touch panel activate game mode, with the same gesture used to switch between gaming and music operation.

Beamforming microphones for voice communication

Each EVO 2 ear-hook module incorporates a dual-microphone array with beamforming environmental noise cancellation (ENC). Beamforming uses signals from multiple microphones to emphasize sound arriving from the direction of the user's voice while reducing the contribution of surrounding noise.

The microphones are integrated directly into the ear-hook modules, allowing the EVO 2 to handle voice calls without requiring a separate microphone accessory. Bluetooth HFP and HSP support provide compatibility with the voice communication functions of supported source devices.

Up to 60 hours of combined battery life

The EVO 2 is rated for up to 15 hours of continuous playback from the ear-hook modules, with the charging case supplying an additional 45 hours of battery life. Combined, the system provides up to 60 hours of rated playback before the charging case itself needs to be recharged.

MOONDROP's battery measurements were conducted with the ear hooks and charging case fully charged, using the AAC codec at 50% volume. Actual operating time will vary with listening volume, codec selection, and other operating conditions. The system supports USB-C charging, with a specified charging time of approximately two hours. The rated power input is 5 V DC at 1 A, while the charging output is specified at 5 V DC and 0.25 A.

A protective charging case designed for daily transport

The EVO 2 includes a crush-proof and water-resistant charging case designed to protect the ear-hook modules against physical pressure, water, and dust during storage and transport. The USB-C charging port is positioned inside the case, providing additional protection when the case is closed.

A rotary pressure vent is incorporated into the enclosure to accommodate changing pressure conditions. Inside, felt and sponge inserts protect the ear hooks from scratches and limit their movement during transport. The protective construction is intended to accommodate the larger dimensions of ear-hook modules while providing integrated charging and storage.

Replaceable connectors for broader IEM compatibility

The EVO 2 uses a removable connector design that allows the earphone interface to be replaced independently of the wireless ear-hook modules. MOONDROP plans to offer separate FitEar and MMCX connector options, extending compatibility to additional earphones that use these connection standards.

This modular approach allows users to change connector types without replacing the complete Bluetooth DAC and amplifier system. Compatibility will depend on the connector installed and the mechanical requirements of the individual earphone.

Customizable touch controls through MOONDROP Link

Touch-sensitive controls are integrated into both ear-hook modules, providing access to supported functions without requiring direct interaction with the connected source device. The MOONDROP Link app allows touch commands to be reassigned according to user preference, including supported playback and operating-mode functions.

The app also provides access to DSP tuning and the manual activation required for LC3 operation, bringing the EVO 2's wireless and audio configuration options into a single control interface.

Availability

The MOONDROP EVO 2 is available for pre-order now on Apos.