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Kiwi Ears Astral vs Myer Audio CKLVX D41: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Kiwi Ears Astral 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 Astral - Outstanding 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 3 of 4 measures.

  • Kiwi Ears Astral
  • Myer Audio CKLVX D41
HearWiki score
82
71
Sound
8.6
7.7
Value
8.3
7.9
Price (USD)
$300
$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

Kiwi Ears Astral (2025) against Myer Audio CKLVX D41 (2024). 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.

  • Astral20251 yr newer
  • CKLVX D412024

Specifications

AstralCKLVX D41
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$300
$170
HearWiki score
82
71
Released
2025
2024
Availability
Sold new
Discontinued
Driver
1DD + 6BA hybrid
-
Driver type
hybrid
-
Driver configuration
1DD + 6BA
-
Driver size
10 mm
-
Drivers per side
7
-
Impedance
23 Ω
-
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Water resistance
IPX4
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-

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

Myer Audio CKLVX D41

The CKLVX D41 is a wired in-ear monitor that combines a 10 mm dynamic driver with four balanced-armature drivers for a hybrid sound profile. It’s positioned as an affordable hi-fi option, offering detailed and layered audio without wireless features or noise cancellation. The build focuses on delivering a multi-driver experience for listeners who prioritize wired fidelity.

  • Pro:Hybrid driver setup provides rich, detailed sound
  • Pro:Good value for a multi-driver IEM at this price
  • Pro:Wired connection ensures stable, lossless audio transmission
  • Con:No active noise cancellation, so ambient noise remains
  • Con:Requires a separate amplifier or good source for optimal performance
  • Con:Wired-only may limit convenience for some users

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

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