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Kiwi Ears KE4 vs TANGZU x HBB Wu Heyday Edition: 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.

Score breakdown

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

Kiwi Ears KE4 leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • Kiwi Ears KE4
  • TANGZU x HBB Wu Heyday Edition
HearWiki score
84
77
Sound
8.6
8.3
Value
8.6
7.2
Price (USD)
$200
$200

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 2 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.

  • KE420242 yr newer
  • x HBB Wu Heyday Edition2022

Specifications

KE4x HBB Wu Heyday Edition
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$200
$200
HearWiki score
84
77
Released
2024
2022
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
2DD + 2BA hybrid
14.5 mm planar magnetic
Driver type
hybrid
planar
Driver configuration
2DD + 2BA
-
Driver size
10 mm
14.5 mm
Drivers per side
4
-
Impedance
28 Ω
16 Ω
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
Connector
3.5 mm
2-pin 0.78 mm

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

TANGZU x HBB Wu Heyday Edition

This is an HBB-tuned update to TANGZU's Wu lineup, featuring a single 14.5mm planar driver housed in an aluminum shell. It's designed for audiophiles who prefer a neutral, balanced, and airy planar sound signature, with a wired, detachable cable setup and no active noise cancellation.

  • Pro:Neutral and balanced tuning
  • Pro:Spacious soundstage
  • Pro:Aluminum build quality
  • Con:Requires a capable source due to low impedance
  • Con:No noise isolation features
  • Con:May lack bass punch for some listeners

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

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonKiwi Ears KE4TANGZU x HBB Wu Heyday Edition