Kiwi Ears Astral vs Yu9 Audio Que: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Yu9 Audio Que comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 83. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Yu9 Audio Que - Great overall at around $399.

Wired IEMs

Score breakdown

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

Yu9 Audio Que leads on 3 of 4 measures.

Kiwi Ears Astral
Yu9 Audio Que

HearWiki score

Sound

8.0

8.5

Value

7.5

8.0

Price (USD)

$300

$400

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.

Astral2025
Que2025

Specifications

AstralQue

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $300; $400
HearWiki score: 77; 83
Released: 2025; 2025
Availability: Sold new; Sold new
Driver: 1DD + 6BA hybrid; 1DD + 3BA hybrid
Driver type: hybrid; hybrid
Driver configuration: 1DD + 6BA; 1DD + 3BA
Driver size: 10 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 7; 4
Impedance: 23 Ω; -
Active noise cancelling: No; -
Water resistance: IPX4; -
Detachable cable: Yes; -

Specification comparison of Kiwi Ears Astral vs Yu9 Audio Que
Spec	Kiwi Ears Astral	Yu9 Audio Que
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$300	$400
HearWiki score	77 / 100 Great	83 / 100 Great
Released	2025	2025
Audio
Driver	1DD + 6BA hybrid	1DD + 3BA hybrid
Driver type	hybrid	hybrid
Driver configuration	1DD + 6BA	1DD + 3BA
Driver size	10 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	7	4
Impedance	23 Ω	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	-
Design
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

Yu9 Audio Que

The Yu9 Audio Que is a wired hybrid IEM that delivers a refined, flagship-inspired sound for under $500, blending controlled bass, organic mids, and airy treble with impressive spatial cues. Its vented shell prevents pressure buildup and offers strong technical performance, though the wide nozzle and fit may be a consideration for some listeners. Overall, it presents excellent value as a versatile, engaging single-set option.

Pro:Organic and natural midrange presentation
Pro:Controlled bass with good punch and texture
Pro:Airy treble that adds sparkle without harshness

Con:Wide nozzle may cause fit issues for some ears
Con:No noise cancellation or wireless options
Con:Stock cable could feel stiff 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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New comparison Kiwi Ears Astral Yu9 Audio Que