Wired IEMs
Kiwi Ears KE4
84Outstanding
$200
Full review dataKiwi Ears KE4 vs STAX SR-003 MKII: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Kiwi Ears KE4 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Kiwi Ears KE4 - Outstanding overall at around $199.
Wired IEMs
STAX SR-003 MKII
61Average
$350
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Kiwi Ears KE4 leads on 4 of 4 measures.
- Kiwi Ears KE4
- STAX SR-003 MKII
HearWiki score
84
61
Sound
8.6
7.8
Value
8.6
5.8
Price (USD)
$200
$350
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 KE4 is 12 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. For 12 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.
- KE4202412 yr newer
- SR-003 MKII2012
Specifications
KE4SR-003 MKII
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $200
- $350
- HearWiki score
- 84
- 61
- Released
- 2024
- 2012
- Availability
- Still sold new
- Discontinued
- Driver
- 2DD + 2BA hybrid
- 28 mm electrostatic
- Driver type
- hybrid
- electrostatic
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 2BA
- -
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- 28 mm
- Drivers per side
- 4
- 1
- Frequency response
- -
- 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Impedance
- 28 Ω
- -
- Sensitivity
- -
- 110 dB/mW
- Active noise cancelling
- No
- No
- Weight
- -
- 12 g
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- -
- USB-C
- -
- No
- Connector
- 3.5 mm
- -
- Model code
- -
- SR-003MK2
What reviewers said
Kiwi Ears KE4
The Kiwi Ears KE4 is a wired hybrid IEM that offers a balanced, relaxing sound with a distinct twist on the popular 'New Meta' tuning, adding extra bass and treble sparkle. It delivers solid midrange clarity and a comfortable fit, making it a versatile choice for many genres, though its smooth presentation may not excite those seeking aggressive or highly dynamic sound.
- Pro:Well-balanced hybrid tuning with rich lower mids and airy treble
- Pro:Comfortable fit and broad genre versatility
- Pro:Good resolution and clarity for its price
- Con:Sub-bass can get overpowering at times
- Con:Limited resolving power and dynamic impact
- Con:Smooth tuning may feel less exciting than V-shaped alternatives
STAX SR-003 MKII
The STAX SR-003 MKII is a compact electrostatic ear speaker designed for portable high-end listening, but it requires a dedicated amplifier to function. It delivers the signature electrostatic strengths of exceptional speed and detail, though its fit and stock accessories may not suit everyone. This is a niche, serious audiophile product rather than a conventional in-ear monitor.
- Pro:Characteristic electrostatic speed and detail
- Pro:Very lightweight at only 12 grams
- Pro:Open, specialized sound presentation
- Con:Requires a separate electrostatic amplifier
- Con:Stock fit and accessories may be uncomfortable for some
- Con:Niche appeal with a high overall system cost
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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