Meta tuning rules! Or at least, that’s what many audiophiles following the 5128 measurements say because this KE4 takes the new universally accepted target almost to a T with a slight bass boost. So let’s see how Kiwi Ears’ latest $199 2DD + 4BA hybrid performs!
The unboxing experience is fundamentally still Kiwi Ears. Very basic inclusions with the exception of the Kiwi Ears Flex eartips which also came with the Crinacle-collab Singlo. Not really ideal for a $200, but I’d say it’s a matter of importance on inclusions or raw sound, to which Kiwi Ears falls on the latter.
As for build, this a surprisingly large IEM compared to the Quartet that also features the same driver configuration but without the switches. Thankfully, it’s shaped to perfection as it sits on my ear with superb stability and seal. Maybe a bit of driver flex on my end, but no air pressure build up which is a bigger con than the former. Aesthetically, I think Kiwi Ears moving to a simpler pallet is great to keep the look clean but attractive, but I do miss their more colorful options like the Quartet, Cadenza and Orchestra Lite. The cable is fantastic, however, and is a really well done semi-thick 4 core braid. Good quality interface too!
As someone who’s only had a handful experience with “meta” tuned IEMs, I have to say that the Kiwi Ears KE4 strikes the goal of creating a balanced, versatile and well-extended sound perfectly for $200. Superb low end depth and rumble, rich midrange and a well-extended but fatigue free treble presentation. If you were to ask me what’s the easiest IEM to recommend in 2024, I’m willing to put my money on the KE4. There’s just nothing inherently wrong about the KE4, which is both a pro and a con for the KE4. On one end, this is one of the most versatile tuned IEMs as anything I listened to sounded pretty damn good. The tonal balance paired with superb technical detailing is something that is not easy to find in the $200 and makes the KE4 one of a kind in that regard. However, depending on your preferences, this tuning has the tendency to sound too “safe” or “boring”. I admit that on first listen, I didn’t find the KE4 too impressive. But on further listening, I realized that my experience is very similar to the Simgot Supermix 4 where the beauty is in its versatility and technicality. If you’re looking for something bright, bombastic and energetic, this is not the set for you. But if you’re looking for a versatile, well-balanced, technically capable and an all-rounder IEM, then the KE4 is probably what I’d recommend to basically anyone.
I have to admit, this is another slow burn set that needed more listening time to appreciate. Some sets, like Kiwi Ears Canta, are bright and bombastic from the get go but can get tiring over time. The KE4 is the opposite where it takes time to appreciate and enjoy, but pays off the more you listen to it. I can’t wait to go deeper into the KE4 and share my impressions with you all!
Thank you for reading my full impressions on the Kiwi Ears KE4. If you would like to order one, consider using the non-affiliated link below:
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