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Kiwi Ears Astral vs Letshuoer S15: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Kiwi Ears Astral comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 81. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Kiwi Ears Astral - Great overall at around $299.

Score breakdown

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

Kiwi Ears Astral leads on 4 of 4 measures.

  • Kiwi Ears Astral
  • Letshuoer S15
HearWiki score
81
71
Sound
8.6
8.1
Value
8.3
5.1
Price (USD)
$300
$330

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 Astral 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.

  • Astral20252 yr newer
  • S152023

Specifications

AstralS15
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$300
$330
HearWiki score
81
71
Released
2025
2023
Availability
Sold new
Discontinued
Driver
1DD + 6BA hybrid
14.8 mm planar magnetic
Driver type
hybrid
planar
Driver configuration
1DD + 6BA
-
Driver size
10 mm
14.8 mm
Drivers per side
7
-
Impedance
23 Ω
30 Ω
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Water resistance
IPX4
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
Connector
-
2-pin 0.78 mm

What reviewers said

Kiwi Ears Astral

The Kiwi Ears Astral is a hybrid wired IEM that blends a dynamic driver with six balanced armatures, delivering a bass-forward yet detailed sound with smooth highs and a natural midrange. While it offers strong clarity, good instrument separation, and a comfortable fit for many, its large shells may cause fatigue over long sessions, and the mid-bass and lower midrange could feel leaner than some listeners prefer. Overall, it's a well-rounded performer in the $300 range, though not perfectly neutral due to its elevated low end and relaxed treble.

  • Pro:Deep, impactful sub-bass with good control
  • Pro:Clear and detailed treble without harshness
  • Pro:Natural midrange with good instrument separation
  • Con:Large shells may reduce comfort during extended listening
  • Con:Limited included eartip selection
  • Con:Mid-bass punch and lower midrange can seem thin

Letshuoer S15

The Letshuoer S15 is a planar magnetic IEM that prioritizes a warm, rich, and smooth listening experience over aggressive treble or razor-sharp detail. It offers a comfortable fit, solid build, and a musical, dense presentation that stands apart from brighter competitors, though it may not satisfy those seeking maximum resolution or airy highs. The included modular cable and improved ergonomics are notable perks, but its overall performance may not fully justify its premium price for all listeners.

  • Pro:Warm, smooth, and musical tuning with dynamic bass
  • Pro:Comfortable ergonomics and quality build
  • Pro:Includes a versatile modular cable
  • Con:Lacks the detail and treble refinement of rivals at this price
  • Con:Can sound dark or subdued for those preferring brighter signatures
  • Con:Vocal tuning may not be as crisp as expected

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 comparisonKiwi Ears AstralLetshuoer S15