BGVP DMA vs Kiwi Ears KE4: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Kiwi Ears KE4 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Kiwi Ears KE4 - Outstanding overall at around $199.

Wired IEMs

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Kiwi Ears KE4 leads on 4 of 4 measures.

BGVP DMA
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

8.2

8.6

Value

8.0

8.6

Price (USD)

$300

$200

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

Kiwi Ears KE4 (2024) against BGVP DMA (2023). These are the same generation of hardware - nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price.

DMA2023
KE420241 yr newer

Specifications

DMAKE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $300; $200
HearWiki score: 73; 84
Released: 2023; 2024
Availability: Discontinued; Still sold new
Driver: -; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: -; hybrid
Driver configuration: -; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: -; 10 mm
Drivers per side: -; 4
Impedance: -; 28 Ω
Active noise cancelling: -; No
Detachable cable: -; Yes
Connector: -; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of BGVP DMA vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	BGVP DMA	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$300	$200
HearWiki score	73 / 100 Great	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2023	2024
Audio
Driver	-	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	-	hybrid
Driver configuration	-	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	-	10 mm
Drivers per side	-	4
Impedance	-	28 Ω
Features
Active noise cancelling	-	No
Design
Detachable cable	-	Yes
Connector	-	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

BGVP DMA

This wired tribrid IEM packs a 9.2 mm dynamic driver, two balanced-armature drivers, and a dual Sonion bone-conduction driver into a single shell, offering a unique blend of air, punch, and detail. It’s positioned as a budget-friendly entry into bone-conduction multi-driver sound for those seeking high-fidelity playback without active noise cancellation. The design focuses on delivering a spacious, immersive signature that leverages both air conduction and bone conduction for a fuller listening experience.

Pro:Combines three driver types for a layered, detailed sound
Pro:Bone-conduction adds spatial depth and physical sensation
Pro:Affordable price for a multi-driver tribrid setup

Con:No active noise cancellation, so ambient noise may intrude
Con:Requires a good source or amp to fully drive the bone-conduction drivers
Con:Fit may be finicky to optimize bone-conduction contact

Kiwi Ears KE4

The Kiwi Ears KE4 is a wired hybrid IEM that offers a balanced, relaxing sound with a distinct twist on the popular 'New Meta' tuning, adding extra bass and treble sparkle. It delivers solid midrange clarity and a comfortable fit, making it a versatile choice for many genres, though its smooth presentation may not excite those seeking aggressive or highly dynamic sound.

Pro:Well-balanced hybrid tuning with rich lower mids and airy treble
Pro:Comfortable fit and broad genre versatility
Pro:Good resolution and clarity for its price

Con:Sub-bass can get overpowering at times
Con:Limited resolving power and dynamic impact
Con:Smooth tuning may feel less exciting than V-shaped alternatives

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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New comparison BGVP DMA Kiwi Ears KE4