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Kiwi Ears Quartet vs Letshuoer S12 Ultra: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Letshuoer S12 Ultra comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 83. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Letshuoer S12 Ultra - Outstanding overall at around $169.

Score breakdown

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

Letshuoer S12 Ultra leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • Kiwi Ears Quartet
  • Letshuoer S12 Ultra
HearWiki score
67
83
Sound
6.9
8.6
Value
7.4
8.9
Price (USD)
$110
$170

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 Letshuoer S12 Ultra 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.

  • Quartet2023
  • S12 Ultra20252 yr newer

Specifications

QuartetS12 Ultra
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$110
$170
HearWiki score
67
83
Released
2023
2025
Availability
Still sold new
Sold new
Driver
2DD + 2BA hybrid
1 planar magnetic
Driver type
hybrid
planar
Driver configuration
2DD + 2BA
1 planar magnetic
Driver size
10 mm
14.8 mm
Drivers per side
4
1
Impedance
32 Ω
16 Ω
Sensitivity
110 dB/mW
-
Weight
4 g
-
Connector
2-pin 0.78 mm
-

What reviewers said

Kiwi Ears Quartet

The Kiwi Ears Quartet is a wired hybrid IEM that pairs dual dynamic drivers with dual balanced armatures for a lively, well-balanced sound at a budget-friendly price. Its build and included cable are competitive for the class, and the tuning offers a distinct character that suits listeners seeking an engaging yet configurable presentation. While not universally ideal for all tastes, it delivers strong value for those wanting solid technical performance without a high outlay. Its lightweight 4-gram design and standard 0.78mm 2-pin connector add to its practical appeal.

  • Pro:Engaging, balanced hybrid tuning with good detail retrieval
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable build at just 4 grams
  • Pro:Standard 0.78mm 2-pin connector allows easy cable swapping
  • Con:Tuning may not suit listeners preferring a neutral or dark signature
  • Con:No active noise cancellation, so isolation relies on fit and tips
  • Con:Stock cable, while decent, may not satisfy those seeking premium accessories

Letshuoer S12 Ultra

The Letshuoer S12 Ultra is a wired in-ear monitor that delivers Hi-Fi sound through a single 14.8mm planar magnetic driver housed in a lightweight aluminum-alloy shell. Aimed at music enthusiasts, it offers the signature planar-driver clarity and detail of the S12 series in a refreshed design, without any active noise cancellation or wireless features. Priced around $169, it's a straightforward, high-performance option for wired listening.

  • Pro:Detailed and fast planar magnetic sound
  • Pro:Lightweight and durable aluminum-alloy build
  • Pro:Accurate bass response with low distortion
  • Con:Requires a wired connection, no wireless freedom
  • Con:No active noise cancellation for noisy environments
  • Con:Open-back style may leak sound in quiet settings

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

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