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Kiwi Ears KE4Image © Amazon

Kiwi Ears KE4

84/ 100
Outstanding
HearWiki score

Exceptional value

$200
typical price, USD
Still sold new
Manufacturer pageBuy now onAmazon

At a glance

Brand
Kiwi Ears
Type
Wired IEMs
Fit
-
Connection
Wired
Noise cancelling
No
Released
2024

Score breakdownoutstanding overall

Sound8.6
Value8.6

A four-driver hybrid IEM using two 10mm dynamic drivers in an isobaric subwoofer system plus two balanced-armature drivers. Kiwi Ears positions it for musicians and studio professionals seeking detailed monitoring.

The HearWiki takeAI-condensed

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.

What works

  • Well-balanced hybrid tuning with rich lower mids and airy treble
  • Comfortable fit and broad genre versatility
  • Good resolution and clarity for its price
  • Detachable cable with standard 3.5mm connector

What doesn't

  • Sub-bass can get overpowering at times
  • Limited resolving power and dynamic impact
  • Smooth tuning may feel less exciting than V-shaped alternatives
  • Sparse accessory package

Paraphrased from published reviews & specs - not an original hands-on test. Our AI disclosure.

Specifications

Audio - Kiwi Ears KE4
Driver2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver typehybrid
Driver configuration2DD + 2BA
Drivers per side4
Impedance28 Ω

What the reviews said

6 source(s) feeding this product's score.

audioreviews.org

80

AudioReviews finds the KE4 comfortable and tonally appealing, with rich lower mids and airy treble standing out as strengths. It is more cautious about sub-bass getting too strong and about limited resolving power and dynamic impact.

Read the full review

creativebloq.com

80

Creative Bloq says the KE4 remains a compelling $200 IEM that puts a distinct spin on the 'New Meta' sound by adding extra bass and some sparkle in the treble. The review suggests it is still competitive a year later because it balances that tuning well at its price.

Read the full review

headfonics.com

80

Headfonics describes the KE4 as a well-balanced hybrid IEM with a pleasing, relaxing tuning and solid resolution for its price. The review praises its mid-bass, midrange clarity, and non-fatiguing treble, while noting that it does not fully deliver top-tier high-end resolution.

Read the full review

audionotions.com

Audio Notions treats the KE4 as a highly polished example of the 'Meta' style, emphasizing its superb tonal balance and broad appeal across genres. The main criticism is that its smooth, neutral presentation can feel less exciting than more V-shaped alternatives.

Read the full review

headphones.com

Headphones.com’s impressions are mixed on the tuning: it finds the bass and treble somewhat heavy for this kind of midrange-focused signature and notes the accessory package is sparse. It also suggests the KE4 may not satisfy listeners who want a more energetic or lively presentation.

Read the full review

What YouTube reviewers say

Video reviews we found, each condensed to its verdict. They do feed the HearWiki score, at a measured weight below what a published written review carries.

7:39

The Kiwi Ears KE4 is an amazing bargain

Hangout․Audio45.5K viewsAug 2024

The reviewer praises the Kiwi Ears KE4 as an excellent value, delivering the new 'meta' tuning at a much lower price than competitors. While the sound is natural and rich, it has some drawbacks like driver flex and a less detailed bass, but overall it's a strong recommendation for those seeking this tuning.

24:40

What is the "New Meta"? Kiwi Ears KE4 REVIEW

Super* Review28.1K viewsSep 2024

The reviewer discusses the Kiwi Ears KE4 as an example of the 'new meta' in IEM tuning, which moves away from the Harman target to offer a warmer, more relaxed sound with fuller lower mids and less treble edge. He finds the KE4 well-built and comfortable, though the accessories are basic for the price, and he recommends it for those who prefer a less v-shaped tuning.

14:08

Kiwi Ears KE4 Review (My Gaming Ranks)

Fresh Reviews14.8K viewsAug 2024

The reviewer finds the Kiwi Ears KE4 to be a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing IEM with a warm, diffuse-field tuning that works well for music and Valorant, but it falls short in competitive gaming for Apex Legends and Call of Duty due to issues with separation, layering, and clarity in busy audio scenes. Overall, it's a decent budget option for those who like this tuning, but not a top-tier gaming pick.

8:58

Is this the New $200 Benchmark? 💎 (Kiwi Ears KE4 Review vs QUINTET, SUPERMIX4, CKLVX/PULA)

Jays Audio 9.5K viewsSep 2024

The reviewer finds the Kiwi Ears KE4 to be a strong contender around $200, praising its warm, smooth tuning and excellent bass, but notes it is not a benchmark at mid volume. He recommends cranking the volume to unlock its immersive, detailed sound, though it lacks vocal power and technical sharpness compared to rivals like the SuperMix 4 and Quintet. Overall, he considers it a solid, musical choice, especially for bass lovers, but not the most all-rounder option.

Summaries are AI condensations of each video's own conclusion, not transcripts. Titles, thumbnails and view counts belong to their channels.

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Mentioned in articles

Where the Kiwi Ears KE4 comes up in our guides and explainers.

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Where it sits in our rankings

The data-driven guides this model qualifies for.