Wired IEMs
CrinEar Reference
83Great
$350
Full review dataCrinEar Reference vs Kiwi Ears KE4: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the CrinEar Reference comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 83. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: CrinEar Reference - Great overall at around $350.
Wired IEMs
Kiwi Ears KE4
81Great
$200
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.
- CrinEar Reference
- Kiwi Ears KE4
HearWiki score
83
81
Sound
9.1
8.6
Value
8.9
8.6
Price (USD)
$350
$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
The CrinEar Reference is 2 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.
- Reference20262 yr newer
- KE42024
Specifications
ReferenceKE4
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $350
- $200
- HearWiki score
- 83
- 81
- Released
- 2026
- 2024
- Availability
- Sold new
- Discontinued
- Driver
- 2DD + 3BA hybrid
- 2DD + 2BA hybrid
- Driver type
- hybrid
- hybrid
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 3BA
- 2DD + 2BA
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- 5
- 4
- Impedance
- 16 Ω
- 28 Ω
- Sensitivity
- 104 dB/mW
- -
- Active noise cancelling
- -
- No
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- Yes
- Connector
- 4.4 mm balanced
- 3.5 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
Kiwi Ears KE4
The Kiwi Ears KE4 is a hybrid IEM that delivers a balanced, smooth sound signature with a touch of added bass and treble sparkle, making it a versatile choice for many genres. It offers solid clarity and a comfortable fit, though its tuning leans relaxed rather than aggressive, and it lacks the ultimate resolving power of pricier models. Overall, it's a polished performer around the $200 mark that suits listeners who prefer a neutral yet slightly warm presentation.
- Pro:Well-balanced tuning with a relaxing character
- Pro:Rich lower mids and airy treble
- Pro:Comfortable fit for long sessions
- Con:Sub-bass can feel a bit overpowering at times
- Con:Limited dynamics and resolving power compared to top-tier IEMs
- Con:Accessories are minimal
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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