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Kiwi Ears KE4 vs Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Kiwi Ears KE4 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 KE4 - Outstanding overall at around $199.

Score breakdown

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

Kiwi Ears KE4 leads on 3 of 5 measures.

  • Kiwi Ears KE4
  • Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk
HearWiki score
81
80
Sound
8.6
8.9
Calls
-
5.8
Value
8.6
7.6
Price (USD)
$200
$360

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 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.

  • KE42024
  • x Crinacle Dusk2024

Specifications

KE4x Crinacle Dusk
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$200
$360
HearWiki score
81
80
Released
2024
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Discontinued
Driver
2DD + 2BA hybrid
2DD + 2BA + 2PL tribrid
Driver type
hybrid
tribrid
Driver configuration
2DD + 2BA
2DD + 2BA + 2PL
Driver size
10 mm
-
Drivers per side
4
6
Impedance
28 Ω
14.5 Ω
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
Connector
3.5 mm
2-pin 0.78 mm

What reviewers said

Kiwi Ears KE4

The Kiwi Ears KE4 is a hybrid IEM that delivers a balanced, smooth sound signature with a touch of added bass and treble sparkle, making it a versatile choice for many genres. It offers solid clarity and a comfortable fit, though its tuning leans relaxed rather than aggressive, and it lacks the ultimate resolving power of pricier models. Overall, it's a polished performer around the $200 mark that suits listeners who prefer a neutral yet slightly warm presentation.

  • Pro:Well-balanced tuning with a relaxing character
  • Pro:Rich lower mids and airy treble
  • Pro:Comfortable fit for long sessions
  • Con:Sub-bass can feel a bit overpowering at times
  • Con:Limited dynamics and resolving power compared to top-tier IEMs
  • Con:Accessories are minimal

Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk

This six-driver tribrid IEM pairs two dynamic, two balanced armature, and two planar-magnetic drivers for a detailed and engaging audiophile tuning. It works with standard 3.5mm cables or Moondrop's USB-C DSP cable for flexible digital tuning. The collaboration design focuses on accurate, balanced sound reproduction for serious music listening.

  • Pro:Rich, layered sound with good separation
  • Pro:Versatile cable options including DSP
  • Pro:Well-tuned for neutral music listening
  • Con:No noise cancellation
  • Con:Requires a good source for best performance
  • Con:Higher price point

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

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