Kiwi Ears Cadenza vs Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 82. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red - Outstanding overall at around $65.

Wired IEMs

Score breakdown

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

Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red leads on 3 of 4 measures.

Kiwi Ears Cadenza
Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red

HearWiki score

Sound

7.0

8.1

Value

7.8

8.8

Price (USD)

$35

$65

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

Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red (2023) against Kiwi Ears Cadenza (2022). 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.

Cadenza2022
x Crinacle Zero Red20231 yr newer

Specifications

Cadenzax Crinacle Zero Red

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $35; $65
HearWiki score: 69; 82
Released: 2022; 2023
Availability: Still sold new; Still sold new
Driver: 1DD; 2DD
Driver type: dynamic; dynamic
Driver configuration: 1DD; 2DD
Driver size: 10 mm; -
Drivers per side: 1; 2
Impedance: 32 Ω; 17.5 Ω
Sensitivity: 110 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; -
Detachable cable: Yes; -
Connector: 2-pin 0.78 mm; -

Specification comparison of Kiwi Ears Cadenza vs Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red
Spec	Kiwi Ears Cadenza	Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$35	$65
HearWiki score	69 / 100 Good	82 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2022	2023
Audio
Driver	1DD	2DD
Driver type	dynamic	dynamic
Driver configuration	1DD	2DD
Driver size	10 mm	-
Drivers per side	1	2
Impedance	32 Ω	17.5 Ω
Sensitivity	110 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	-
Design
Detachable cable	Yes	-
Connector	2-pin 0.78 mm	-

What reviewers said

Kiwi Ears Cadenza

The Kiwi Ears Cadenza is an affordable wired IEM that delivers a smooth, balanced sound signature with a natural timbre, making it a strong value pick for budget-conscious listeners. Its controlled bass, clear mids, and relaxed treble provide a non-fatiguing listening experience, though it may not satisfy those seeking maximum technical detail or extra brightness. With a comfortable fit and detachable cable, it's a sensible choice for everyday use.

Pro:Excellent value for the price
Pro:Smooth, natural tonality
Pro:Comfortable and easy to wear

Con:Bass could be tighter
Con:Imaging precision is limited
Con:Lacks high-end technical performance

Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red

This wired in-ear monitor pairs a 10 mm and a 7.8 mm dynamic driver in a dual-driver setup, tuned for a warm, natural sound signature. It’s designed to be comfortable for extended listening, making it a solid pick for those who prefer a relaxed, non-fatiguing presentation. With no ANC, it relies on passive isolation from its fit.

Pro:Warm, natural tuning for long sessions
Pro:Dual dynamic drivers for rich bass and detail
Pro:Comfortable fit for extended wear

Con:No active noise cancellation
Con:Requires a source with enough power (17.5 ohm impedance)
Con:Bulky shell may not suit small ears

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 Cadenza Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red