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Kiwi Ears Aether vs LETSHUOER DX1: which should you buy?

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

Our pick: Kiwi Ears Aether - Great overall at around $170.

Score breakdown

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

Kiwi Ears Aether leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • Kiwi Ears Aether
  • LETSHUOER DX1
HearWiki score
82
71
Sound
8.5
7.5
Value
8.0
7.0
Price (USD)
$170
$160

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

Both shipped in 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.

  • Aether2025
  • DX12025

Specifications

AetherDX1
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$170
$160
HearWiki score
82
71
Released
2025
2025
Availability
Sold new
Sold new
Driver
1 planar
11 mm dynamic
Driver type
planar
dynamic
Driver configuration
1 planar
-
Driver size
15.3 mm
11 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Impedance
14 Ω
30 Ω
Sensitivity
105 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
Connector
2-pin 0.78 mm
-

What reviewers said

Kiwi Ears Aether

The Kiwi Ears Aether is a single 15.3mm planar driver IEM that delivers a punchy, well-extended bass response and a smooth, non-fatiguing treble, all wrapped in a premium, comfortable shell. Its tuning leans toward a fun yet mature presentation with precise imaging and a wide soundstage, making it a strong contender in the sub-$200 planar market. While its large housing and stock cable pose minor drawbacks, the overall sonic performance and build quality offer excellent value for wired audio enthusiasts.

  • Pro:Strong, impactful bass with good depth
  • Pro:Smooth and refined treble without harshness
  • Pro:Excellent imaging and spacious soundstage
  • Con:Recessed lower mids may lack warmth for some
  • Con:Large shell size can be problematic for smaller ears
  • Con:Stock cable feels below par for the price

LETSHUOER DX1

The LETSHUOER DX1 is a wired, single 11mm dynamic-driver IEM tuned for a balanced, mid-focused sound that excels with vocals and acoustic material. Its smooth, natural timbre and clean low end make it an easy, fatigue-free listen, though it trades away sub-bass weight and top-end air for its refined midrange. It benefits from a decent source to unlock its full staging and clarity, making it a solid pick for listeners who prioritize musicality over raw excitement.

  • Pro:Natural, engaging midrange with excellent vocal timbre
  • Pro:Fatigue-free treble and smooth overall tuning
  • Pro:Good imaging and soundstage for its price
  • Con:Light sub-bass and restrained bass impact
  • Con:Treble lacks sparkle and upper-air extension
  • Con:Needs a capable amplifier to sound its best

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

Compare something else

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New comparisonKiwi Ears AetherLETSHUOER DX1