Skip to content
HearWiki

CrinEar Reference vs XENNS MANGIRD TEA 2: which should you buy?

Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the CrinEar Reference vs XENNS MANGIRD TEA 2, 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
  • XENNS MANGIRD TEA 2
HearWiki score
86
-
Sound
9.1
-
Value
8.9
-
Price (USD)
$350
$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.

  • Reference20264 yr newer
  • MANGIRD TEA 22022

Specifications

ReferenceMANGIRD TEA 2
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$350
$350
HearWiki score
86
Not scored
Released
2026
2022
Availability
Sold new
Discontinued
Driver
2DD + 3BA hybrid
1DD + 6BA hybrid
Driver type
hybrid
hybrid
Driver configuration
2DD + 3BA
1DD + 6BA
Driver size
10 mm
-
Drivers per side
5
7
Impedance
16 Ω
18 Ω
Sensitivity
104 dB/mW
110 dB/mW
Detachable cable
Yes
-
Connector
4.4 mm balanced
-

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

XENNS MANGIRD TEA 2

The XENNS MANGIRD TEA 2 is a wired hybrid in-ear monitor that pairs a single dynamic driver with six balanced armatures for a total of seven drivers. Building on its predecessor, this model focuses on delivering a detailed and engaging hi-fi listening experience without any active noise cancellation. It's a solid choice for audiophiles seeking a versatile, cable-connected setup at a mid-range price point.

  • Pro:Rich, layered sound with good separation
  • Pro:Comfortable fit for extended sessions
  • Pro:Sensitive and easy to drive from most sources
  • Con:No noise cancellation features
  • Con:Bulky shell may not suit small ears
  • Con:Stock cable could be better

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 ReferenceXENNS MANGIRD TEA 2