Kiwi Ears Orchestra II vs Yu9 Audio Que: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Yu9 Audio Que comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 83. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Yu9 Audio Que - Great overall at around $399.

Wired IEMs

Score breakdown

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

Yu9 Audio Que leads on 2 of 4 measures.

Kiwi Ears Orchestra II
Yu9 Audio Que

HearWiki score

Sound

8.0

8.5

Value

8.0

Price (USD)

$350

$400

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 Orchestra II (2026) against Yu9 Audio Que (2025). 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.

Orchestra II20261 yr newer
Que2025

Specifications

Orchestra IIQue

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $350; $400
HearWiki score: 76; 83
Released: 2026; 2025
Availability: Sold new; Sold new
Driver: 10BA; 1DD + 3BA hybrid
Driver type: balanced-armature; hybrid
Driver configuration: 10BA; 1DD + 3BA
Driver size: -; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 10; 4
Impedance: 15 Ω; -
Sensitivity: 110 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; -
Water resistance: IPX4; -
Connector: 2-pin 0.78 mm; -

Specification comparison of Kiwi Ears Orchestra II vs Yu9 Audio Que
Spec	Kiwi Ears Orchestra II	Yu9 Audio Que
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$350	$400
HearWiki score	76 / 100 Great	83 / 100 Great
Released	2026	2025
Audio
Driver	10BA	1DD + 3BA hybrid
Driver type	balanced-armature	hybrid
Driver configuration	10BA	1DD + 3BA
Driver size	-	10 mm
Drivers per side	10	4
Impedance	15 Ω	-
Sensitivity	110 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	-
Design
Water resistance	IPX4	-
Connector	2-pin 0.78 mm	-

What reviewers said

Kiwi Ears Orchestra II

The Kiwi Ears Orchestra II is a ten-driver balanced-armature IEM that delivers a crisp, detailed, and energetic sound, with a notable emphasis on midrange clarity and a satisfying bass response for its driver type. It offers strong isolation and is easy to drive, making it a compelling value in the sub-$400 range, though its large shell and pressure buildup may be a concern for some listeners. Overall, it refines the original formula with added sub-bass and treble presence, resulting in a musically engaging and highly recommended package.

Pro:Excellent midrange clarity and detail
Pro:Pleasing bass response for a BA setup
Pro:Easy to drive with most sources

Con:Large shell may not fit all ears comfortably
Con:Pressure buildup can occur during long sessions
Con:Sub-bass extension and stage width are not class-leading

Yu9 Audio Que

The Yu9 Audio Que is a wired hybrid IEM that delivers a refined, flagship-inspired sound for under $500, blending controlled bass, organic mids, and airy treble with impressive spatial cues. Its vented shell prevents pressure buildup and offers strong technical performance, though the wide nozzle and fit may be a consideration for some listeners. Overall, it presents excellent value as a versatile, engaging single-set option.

Pro:Organic and natural midrange presentation
Pro:Controlled bass with good punch and texture
Pro:Airy treble that adds sparkle without harshness

Con:Wide nozzle may cause fit issues for some ears
Con:No noise cancellation or wireless options
Con:Stock cable could feel stiff for some users

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

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