Wired IEMs
Kiwi Ears KE4
84Outstanding
$200
Full review dataKiwi Ears KE4 vs YanYin Canon II: 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
YanYin Canon II
74Great
$380
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
- YanYin Canon II
HearWiki score
84
74
Sound
8.6
8.2
Value
8.6
7.4
Price (USD)
$200
$380
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
Kiwi Ears KE4 (2024) against YanYin Canon II (2023). 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.
- KE420241 yr newer
- Canon II2023
Specifications
KE4Canon II
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $200
- $380
- HearWiki score
- 84
- 74
- Released
- 2024
- 2023
- Availability
- Still sold new
- Still sold new
- Driver
- 2DD + 2BA hybrid
- 1DD + 4BA hybrid
- Driver type
- hybrid
- hybrid
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 2BA
- 1DD + 4BA
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- -
- Drivers per side
- 4
- 5
- Impedance
- 28 Ω
- -
- Active noise cancelling
- No
- -
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- -
- Connector
- 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
YanYin Canon II
The YanYin Canon II is a wired hybrid in-ear monitor that pairs a biological-diaphragm dynamic driver with four balanced-armature drivers for a detailed, layered sound. Its dual tuning switches offer four distinct sound signatures, making it a flexible choice for audiophiles seeking adaptability without active noise cancellation. Priced around $379, this IEM targets those who prioritize wired performance and customizable tuning.
- Pro:Hybrid 1DD + 4BA design delivers rich detail and dynamics
- Pro:Two tuning switches provide four versatile sound profiles
- Pro:Biological diaphragm enhances natural bass response
- Con:No active noise cancellation, limiting isolation in noisy environments
- Con:Requires a separate amplifier or DAC for optimal performance
- Con:Tuning switches may require experimentation to find preferred sound
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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