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Kiwi Ears KE4 vs TRN BA8: 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
  • TRN BA8
HearWiki score
84
44
Sound
8.6
5.4
Value
8.6
-
Price (USD)
$200
$150

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 4 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 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • KE420244 yr newer
  • BA82020

Specifications

KE4BA8
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$200
$150
HearWiki score
84
44
Released
2024
2020
Availability
Still sold new
Discontinued
Driver
2DD + 2BA hybrid
8× balanced armature
Driver type
hybrid
balanced-armature
Driver configuration
2DD + 2BA
-
Driver size
10 mm
-
Drivers per side
4
8
Frequency response
-
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Impedance
28 Ω
20 Ω
Sensitivity
-
100 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
No
No
ANC type
-
none
Controls
-
none
Weight
-
25 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
Connector
3.5 mm
3.5 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

TRN BA8

The TRN BA8 is a wired, all-balanced-armature in-ear monitor that prioritizes detail retrieval and a crisp, energetic presentation. Its treble-forward tuning delivers strong clarity, but the sound can feel aggressive and slightly sterile, making it a specialized choice for detail-focused listeners rather than those seeking a warm or relaxed signature. The lightweight build and detachable cable add practicality, though the accessory package is basic.

  • Pro:Exceptional detail retrieval and resolution
  • Pro:Tight, controlled bass response
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable shell
  • Con:Hot upper-midrange can cause listening fatigue
  • Con:Timbre comes across as sterile or unnatural
  • Con:Treble-forward tuning is not for all listeners

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

Compare something else

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New comparisonKiwi Ears KE4TRN BA8