Wired IEMs
BQEYZ Winter
68Good
$240
Full review dataBQEYZ Winter vs CrinEar Reference: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the CrinEar Reference comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 86. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: CrinEar Reference - Outstanding overall at around $350.
Wired IEMs
CrinEar Reference
86Outstanding
$350
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
CrinEar Reference leads on 3 of 4 measures.
- BQEYZ Winter
- CrinEar Reference
HearWiki score
68
86
Sound
7.8
9.1
Value
6.9
8.9
Price (USD)
$240
$350
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
The CrinEar Reference is 4 years newer, but it is 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. For 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.
- Winter2022
- Reference20264 yr newer
Specifications
WinterReference
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $240
- $350
- HearWiki score
- 68
- 86
- Released
- 2022
- 2026
- Availability
- Discontinued
- Sold new
- Driver
- 1DD + 1BC hybrid
- 2DD + 3BA hybrid
- Driver type
- hybrid
- hybrid
- Driver configuration
- 1DD + 1BC
- 2DD + 3BA
- Driver size
- 12 mm
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- 2
- 5
- Impedance
- 38 Ω
- 16 Ω
- Sensitivity
- -
- 104 dB/mW
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- Yes
- Connector
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
- 4.4 mm balanced
What reviewers said
BQEYZ Winter
The BQEYZ Winter is a wired hybrid IEM combining a 12mm dynamic driver with a bone-conduction element, tuned for a bright, mildly V-shaped sound that prioritizes clarity and upper-frequency energy. It's easy to drive, technically capable for its price, and offers a detailed, energetic listen rather than a warm or relaxed one. With a detachable 2-pin cable and 38-ohm impedance, it's designed for enthusiasts who value precision and liveliness.
- Pro:Detailed and energetic treble presentation
- Pro:Hybrid setup adds unique texture and air
- Pro:Easy to drive with most sources
- Con:Bright tuning may fatigue sensitive listeners
- Con:No noise cancellation for isolation
- Con:Bone-conduction driver can feel unusual
CrinEar Reference
The CrinEar Reference is a wired in-ear monitor that combines two dynamic drivers with three balanced armatures in a hybrid setup, offering a detailed and engaging sound signature. Its secure fit provides good passive noise isolation, making it a reliable choice for critical listening at its price point. The detachable 4.4mm balanced cable adds versatility for audiophiles with compatible sources.
- Pro:Effective passive noise isolation from a snug seal
- Pro:Hybrid driver configuration delivers a rich, layered sound
- Pro:Detachable balanced cable for enhanced audio quality and durability
- Con:Requires a source with a 4.4mm balanced output for full benefit
- Con:No active noise cancellation, so ambient noise may be present in louder environments
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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