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CrinEar Reference vs EPZ P50: which should you buy?

Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the CrinEar Reference vs EPZ P50, side by side. Where a product has no HearWiki score yet, not enough reviews have been aggregated to rate it.

Score breakdown

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

CrinEar Reference leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • CrinEar Reference
  • EPZ P50
HearWiki score
86
-
Sound
9.1
-
Value
8.9
-
Price (USD)
$350
$190

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

CrinEar Reference (2026) against EPZ P50 (2025). 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.

  • Reference20261 yr newer
  • P502025

Specifications

ReferenceP50
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$350
$190
HearWiki score
86
Not scored
Released
2026
2025
Availability
Sold new
Sold new
Driver
2DD + 3BA hybrid
1DD + 2BA + 2PL tribrid
Driver type
hybrid
tribrid
Driver configuration
2DD + 3BA
1DD + 2BA + 2PL
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
5
5
Impedance
16 Ω
20 Ω
Sensitivity
104 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
-
No
Detachable cable
Yes
-
Connector
4.4 mm balanced
2-pin 0.78 mm

What reviewers said

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

EPZ P50

The EPZ P50 is a wired, open-back tribrid in-ear monitor featuring a five-driver setup with one dynamic, two balanced armature, and two planar drivers. It's designed for listeners who want a balanced and airy soundstage, making it suitable for music enjoyment, extended listening at home, and light gaming. With a low 20-ohm impedance and standard 0.78mm two-pin connector, it's easy to drive and compatible with most aftermarket cables.

  • Pro:Balanced, spacious sound signature
  • Pro:Hybrid driver array offers detailed treble and solid bass
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
  • Con:Open-back design lets in ambient noise
  • Con:No noise cancellation for noisy environments
  • Con:Requires a quality source to fully shine

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

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonCrinEar ReferenceEPZ P50