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Kiwi Ears KE4 vs ZIIGAAT x Hangout.Audio: Odyssey 2: 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 4 of 4 measures.

  • Kiwi Ears KE4
  • ZIIGAAT x Hangout.Audio: Odyssey 2
HearWiki score
84
68
Sound
8.6
7.3
Value
8.6
6.6
Price (USD)
$200
$250

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

ZIIGAAT x Hangout.Audio: Odyssey 2 (2025) against Kiwi Ears KE4 (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 Hangout.Audio: Odyssey 220251 yr newer

Specifications

KE4x Hangout.Audio: Odyssey 2
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$200
$250
HearWiki score
84
68
Released
2024
2025
Availability
Still sold new
Sold new
Driver
2DD + 2BA hybrid
1DD + 3BA hybrid
Driver type
hybrid
hybrid
Driver configuration
2DD + 2BA
1DD + 3BA
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
4
4
Impedance
28 Ω
20 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

ZIIGAAT x Hangout.Audio: Odyssey 2

The Odyssey 2 is a wired hybrid IEM that pairs a 10 mm bio-cellulose dynamic driver with three Knowles balanced-armature drivers for a detailed, reference-style sound. It aims to deliver deep, impactful bass alongside clear mids and treble, making it a solid choice for audiophiles on a budget. With a 20-ohm impedance, it should be easy to drive from most sources.

  • Pro:Deep, well-defined bass response
  • Pro:Clear and articulate mids and treble
  • Pro:Reference-style tuning for critical listening
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Wired only, limiting portability
  • Con:May not suit listeners who prefer a warmer 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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