EPZ P40 vs Softears Studio 2: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the EPZ P40 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 82. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: EPZ P40 - Great overall at around $160.

Wired IEMs

Score breakdown

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

EPZ P40 leads on 4 of 4 measures.

EPZ P40
Softears Studio 2

HearWiki score

Sound

8.5

6.5

Value

8.0

6.0

Price (USD)

$160

$170

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

EPZ P40 (2026) against Softears Studio 2 (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.

P4020261 yr newer
Studio 22025

Specifications

P40Studio 2

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $160; $170
HearWiki score: 82; 59
Released: 2026; 2025
Availability: Sold new; Sold new
Driver: 2DD + 1PL + 1PZT tribrid; -
Driver type: tribrid; -
Driver configuration: 2DD + 1PL + 1PZT; -
Drivers per side: 4; -
Impedance: 14 Ω; -
Active noise cancelling: No; -
Detachable cable: -; Yes
Connector: 2-pin 0.78 mm; -

Specification comparison of EPZ P40 vs Softears Studio 2
Spec	EPZ P40	Softears Studio 2
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$160	$170
HearWiki score	82 / 100 Great	59 / 100 Average
Released	2026	2025
Audio
Driver	2DD + 1PL + 1PZT tribrid	-
Driver type	tribrid	-
Driver configuration	2DD + 1PL + 1PZT	-
Drivers per side	4	-
Impedance	14 Ω	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	-
Design
Detachable cable	-	Yes
Connector	2-pin 0.78 mm	-

What reviewers said

EPZ P40

The EPZ P40 is a wired tribrid IEM that delivers a clean, technically strong sound with excellent midrange presence, controlled bass, and precise imaging for its price. While it shines in resolution and transparency, its tuning can feel sharp or cold to some ears, and it falls just short of class-leading treble refinement. Overall, it's a compelling option under $200 for listeners who value clarity and detail over warmth.

Pro:Excellent midrange clarity and vocal presence
Pro:Tight, well-defined bass response
Pro:Strong technical performance with precise imaging

Con:Treble lacks some extension and refinement
Con:Tuning may come across as sharp or shouty
Con:Limited included eartips

Softears Studio 2

The Softears Studio 2 is a wired in-ear monitor featuring dual balanced-armature drivers, designed primarily for stage use, professional monitoring, and casual listening. It offers a detachable cable for easy replacement or customization, but lacks active noise cancellation, so isolation relies on the fit and passive sealing.

Pro:Dual balanced-armature drivers for clear, accurate sound
Pro:Detachable cable adds convenience and upgrade potential
Pro:Versatile for stage monitoring and everyday music enjoyment

Con:No active noise cancellation, so ambient noise may leak in
Con:Balanced-armature tuning may not suit bass-heavy listeners
Con:Requires proper ear tip fit for optimal isolation and seal

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 EPZ P40 Softears Studio 2