Wired IEMs
Etymotic ER2SE Earphones
70Good
$220
Full review dataEtymotic ER2SE Earphones vs Kiwi Ears KE4: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Kiwi Ears KE4 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Kiwi Ears KE4 - Outstanding overall at around $199.
Wired IEMs
Kiwi Ears KE4
84Outstanding
$200
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Kiwi Ears KE4 leads on 4 of 4 measures.
- Etymotic ER2SE Earphones
- Kiwi Ears KE4
HearWiki score
70
84
Sound
7.7
8.6
Value
6.3
8.6
Price (USD)
$220
$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 Kiwi Ears KE4 is 5 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 5 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.
- ER2SE Earphones2019
- KE420245 yr newer
Specifications
ER2SE EarphonesKE4
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $220
- $200
- HearWiki score
- 70
- 84
- Released
- 2019
- 2024
- Availability
- Still sold new
- Still sold new
- Driver
- dynamic
- 2DD + 2BA hybrid
- Driver type
- dynamic
- hybrid
- Driver configuration
- -
- 2DD + 2BA
- Driver size
- -
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- 1
- 4
- Frequency response
- 20 Hz - 16 kHz
- -
- Impedance
- 15 Ω
- 28 Ω
- Sensitivity
- 96 dB/mW
- -
- Active noise cancelling
- No
- No
- ANC type
- none
- -
- Transparency mode
- No
- -
- Companion app
- No
- -
- Custom EQ
- No
- -
- Wear detection
- No
- -
- Controls
- none
- -
- Weight
- 15 g
- -
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- Yes
- USB-C
- No
- -
- Connector
- MMCX
- 3.5 mm
What reviewers said
Etymotic ER2SE Earphones
The Etymotic ER2SE is a wired, single dynamic driver IEM designed for studio monitoring and critical listening, offering a neutral and reference-tuned sound signature. It delivers strong clarity, accurate vocals, and high passive isolation, making it a solid choice for those seeking a transparent and detailed presentation. Its lightweight build and easy drivability add to its appeal, though the deep-fit design may not suit all users.
- Pro:Neutral, reference-tuned sound with accurate detail
- Pro:Excellent passive isolation for immersive listening
- Pro:Easy to drive from most devices without an amp
- Con:Protruding shells may cause discomfort for some
- Con:Bass response is modest and not for bass lovers
- Con:No inline controls or app support for adjustments
Kiwi Ears KE4
The Kiwi Ears KE4 is a wired hybrid IEM that offers a balanced, relaxing sound with a distinct twist on the popular 'New Meta' tuning, adding extra bass and treble sparkle. It delivers solid midrange clarity and a comfortable fit, making it a versatile choice for many genres, though its smooth presentation may not excite those seeking aggressive or highly dynamic sound.
- Pro:Well-balanced hybrid tuning with rich lower mids and airy treble
- Pro:Comfortable fit and broad genre versatility
- Pro:Good resolution and clarity for its price
- Con:Sub-bass can get overpowering at times
- Con:Limited resolving power and dynamic impact
- Con:Smooth tuning may feel less exciting than V-shaped alternatives
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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