I love the sound signature of the KE4. I tip rolled with my entire collection, and I believe the stock Kiwi Ears Flex Eartips actually work best as far as sound. The only tips that sounded decent were the Eletech Baroque Tips and Audiosense S400 Tips, but they didn't improve the sound in any way. I also noticed that the 2 pin connectors on the KE4 are very snug and tight, so people will need to be careful if they plan on swapping cables.
I got my KE4 this afternoon. The left side has a dead mid BA driver. So just bass and treble. Sounds good with the Tangzu Sancai tips right away. Just ordered a replacement and organised a return. Looking forward to hearing mids through both channels.
I’m glad I’m not the only one who noticed the difference the stock tips make! Honestly, they feel like they were made for this IEM, so I’d definitely suggest people give them a try. The KE4 has such a great sound signature, and I’m sure it’ll impress more people as it gets into more hands. It is a great value, a mini Mega5est. 😀
@Atechreviews ironic that you mentioned the KE4 being a mini Mega 5 EST...that is my main daily driver, so it makes sense why I like the KE4 as much as I do.
Great review based on impression, not on graph sniffing ( my deaf grenmather can do like this). You become one of my most trustfull reviewer. What equipment do you use for testing? How Ke4 sounds directly from smartphone?
Thank you so much for the trust and kind words. Are you asking about listening or measuring? For listening, I mainly use the D90/A90 and E70 connected to the THX 789 or L70. I also use the G5 and a DAP. When I'm not listening critically, I use various dongles and even my FiiO BTR7. The KE4 scales with volume but it sounds great with dongles and BTR7.
Thanks! Yes, the Orchestra Lite definitely offers better vocals and more detail. It really comes down to personal preference. Both are excellent in their own way. Thanks for stopping by!
Just got the Dynaquattro today, your review sealed the deal. Initial impression is really good. Thinking about picking up the KE4 or Hype 2. Graph looks similar but we know how that goes. Have you tried the Hype 2? Do you feel it is better than the KE4? Thanks for a great review.
Thanks, man. I’m still using the DynaQuattro. It’s got really good bass, vocals, and timbre. I haven’t tried the Hype 2 yet, but I’ve used the Hype 4 a lot (which has a similar tonality), and I really like it. It sounds pretty different from the KE4, though. The KE4 has this warm-neutral, laid-back vibe with thicker notes and a nice bass boost, while the Hype 4 has that fun, exciting sound with more forward vocals. The KE4’s vocals are more relaxed, which makes it less fatiguing, but I’d bet the Hype 2 will probably have more detail.
Soundstage, imaging, separation. What's better, this or the Supermix 4? Ive read a bunch of reviews about the Explorer, and for its price it seeems like a steal, but what's holding me back is the narrow soundstage. I really like a wide stage. Just a bit of context, i mostly listen to instrumental music, so i love some detail and good, high technical (but natural!) treble (for the high hats), but I'm also just a tad treble sensitive and hate sibilance. I wouldn't call myself a bass head, but i might be one cus i really like deep subbass rumble (but absolutely hate bloated midbass). I can only afford to get one and will be getting it on 11.11, so I'm kinda sweating buckets on which to pick
The SuperMix 4 definitely has the edge over the KE4 when it comes to soundstage, imaging, and separation. That said, the Explorer's soundstage is a bit more intimate, but I really love it, especially for instrumental rock music. The treble on the Explorer sounds great at mid to high volumes, and I can pick up on the hi-hats, though they’re not quite as pronounced as they are on the KE4. It really just comes down to what you prefer!
That’s a great question, and I had to listen and compare them before writing this response. Here’s what I found: 61T: The 61T has a more textured bass, with vocals that are more forward and clearer. It’s a more detailed IEM with better layering and separation. The soundstage is also wider, with a good sense of forward depth and slightly more accurate imaging. It has more passive noise isolation as well. KE4: The KE4 has a smoother, warmer sound with a slightly thicker texture and slightly more laid-back vocals. Its timbre is impressive, sounding natural. It’s more relaxed compared to the 61T. It doesn’t offer the same level of detail as the 61T but excels in providing a more natural timbre and sounds smoother. Both IEMs have a single vent. Some people reported a pressure feeling with the 61T, similar to all BA IEMs, while some people also said that their KE4 has a slight driver flex. Neither IEM comes with a modular cable option. To me, if you prioritize detail and separation, the 61T is the better choice, though it doesn’t have the best timbre. The KE4 is ideal if you prefer a slightly more relaxed sound with a natural timbre and less emphasis on detail. Regarding the Explorer, it has a more intimate and slightly darker sound compared to the KE4. Male vocals are more forward on the Explorer while female vocals are more forward and more airy on the KE4. The Explorer scales well with volume, becoming more engaging and fun with increased loudness. After listening to the Explorer, the KE4 sounds more airy, open and spacious. A nice warm-neutral sound with a bass boost that’s great for extended listening. The KE4 has much better treble clarity and detail compared to the Explorer. I haven't heard the Doscinco, so I can’t comment on its sound.
@@Atechreviews, I was 100% keen on acquiring the new bass-enhanced version of the Hisenior Mega5EST, but now... Incidentally, Axel what is the difference between the Harman target and the so-called "meta tuning"?
@@TheVeganVicar Here is how I understand it: Harman target tuning has a lively sound with a forward mid-range, clean bass with good separation between the mid-bass and the the lower mid-range, making vocals prominent and the overall sound engaging. However, some people might find the mid-range too much maybe. Meta tuning has the same bass but adds warmth with a more pronounced lower mid-range and relaxing the upper mid-range. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference.
The PULA PA02 has a lighter bass response but more forward vocals and extended treble, giving it a dynamic sound. In contrast, the KE4 offers stronger bass with better impact, and it sounds warmer, smoother, and more neutral. It also scales well with volume. Personally, I prefer the bass of the KE4.
Tonality vs technicality: The KE4 has a smooth, balanced tuning that’s never harsh or sibilant, plus it has great bass, actually more than the EA1000. The EA1000 is brighter, which is a bit too much for me, but it does have great bass quality and more detail than the KE4.
Great review. Thx for mentioning the driver flex, seems like a lot of people are having that problem on this IEM. Seems like a super nice iem with a super nice tuning, but driver flex in 2024 at 200dollars is just not acceptable. Might try the Davinci, seems even better! Good comparisons!
Maybe the set I received is an anomaly. Because I do not have near the enjoyment you do with DaVinci. I too listen to SoaD and am a huge TooL fan Or possibly Dunu simply hand-picked sets to send out to reviewers...
I love the sound signature of the KE4. I tip rolled with my entire collection, and I believe the stock Kiwi Ears Flex Eartips actually work best as far as sound. The only tips that sounded decent were the Eletech Baroque Tips and Audiosense S400 Tips, but they didn't improve the sound in any way. I also noticed that the 2 pin connectors on the KE4 are very snug and tight, so people will need to be careful if they plan on swapping cables.
I got my KE4 this afternoon. The left side has a dead mid BA driver. So just bass and treble. Sounds good with the Tangzu Sancai tips right away. Just ordered a replacement and organised a return. Looking forward to hearing mids through both channels.
I’m glad I’m not the only one who noticed the difference the stock tips make! Honestly, they feel like they were made for this IEM, so I’d definitely suggest people give them a try. The KE4 has such a great sound signature, and I’m sure it’ll impress more people as it gets into more hands. It is a great value, a mini Mega5est. 😀
@Atechreviews ironic that you mentioned the KE4 being a mini Mega 5 EST...that is my main daily driver, so it makes sense why I like the KE4 as much as I do.
@@hazi5961 😀
I've heard using non stock ear tips results in harsh treble. Any truth to that?
Love the review axel,
I tried my friend's unit of ke4, it sounds good. I agree it sounds very smooth and relaxing.
Thanks!
I'm excited to try the KE4. You should try the S12 2024, I think it's a sub $200 competitor.
I’ve been hearing great things about it, so I’ll definitely give it a try.
Great review based on impression, not on graph sniffing ( my deaf grenmather can do like this). You become one of my most trustfull reviewer.
What equipment do you use for testing?
How Ke4 sounds directly from smartphone?
Thank you so much for the trust and kind words. Are you asking about listening or measuring? For listening, I mainly use the D90/A90 and E70 connected to the THX 789 or L70. I also use the G5 and a DAP. When I'm not listening critically, I use various dongles and even my FiiO BTR7. The KE4 scales with volume but it sounds great with dongles and BTR7.
@@Atechreviews thanks for your reply.👍
Great review, Axel! For me, the Orchestra Lite edges out the KE4, but I think that's because it's a little more unique. Both great iems for sure!
Thanks! Yes, the Orchestra Lite definitely offers better vocals and more detail. It really comes down to personal preference. Both are excellent in their own way. Thanks for stopping by!
How about the quintet?@@Atechreviews
Just got the Dynaquattro today, your review sealed the deal. Initial impression is really good. Thinking about picking up the KE4 or Hype 2. Graph looks similar but we know how that goes. Have you tried the Hype 2? Do you feel it is better than the KE4? Thanks for a great review.
Thanks, man. I’m still using the DynaQuattro. It’s got really good bass, vocals, and timbre. I haven’t tried the Hype 2 yet, but I’ve used the Hype 4 a lot (which has a similar tonality), and I really like it. It sounds pretty different from the KE4, though. The KE4 has this warm-neutral, laid-back vibe with thicker notes and a nice bass boost, while the Hype 4 has that fun, exciting sound with more forward vocals. The KE4’s vocals are more relaxed, which makes it less fatiguing, but I’d bet the Hype 2 will probably have more detail.
Soundstage, imaging, separation. What's better, this or the Supermix 4? Ive read a bunch of reviews about the Explorer, and for its price it seeems like a steal, but what's holding me back is the narrow soundstage. I really like a wide stage. Just a bit of context, i mostly listen to instrumental music, so i love some detail and good, high technical (but natural!) treble (for the high hats), but I'm also just a tad treble sensitive and hate sibilance. I wouldn't call myself a bass head, but i might be one cus i really like deep subbass rumble (but absolutely hate bloated midbass). I can only afford to get one and will be getting it on 11.11, so I'm kinda sweating buckets on which to pick
The SuperMix 4 definitely has the edge over the KE4 when it comes to soundstage, imaging, and separation. That said, the Explorer's soundstage is a bit more intimate, but I really love it, especially for instrumental rock music. The treble on the Explorer sounds great at mid to high volumes, and I can pick up on the hi-hats, though they’re not quite as pronounced as they are on the KE4. It really just comes down to what you prefer!
I'd go for sm4 if you love subbass rumble and not too much midbass. I think it competes with sets around 200-300.
@@Hijynx87due to reduced midbass sm4 sounds more cleaner , separated. However Ke4 sounds much more natural.
Thank you! How does it compare against the 61T? And against the explorer?
And the doscinco
The thrill of the hunt never ends! 😅 I am also curious 😬
@@gabech2789 #MeToo
That’s a great question, and I had to listen and compare them before writing this response. Here’s what I found:
61T: The 61T has a more textured bass, with vocals that are more forward and clearer. It’s a more detailed IEM with better layering and separation. The soundstage is also wider, with a good sense of forward depth and slightly more accurate imaging. It has more passive noise isolation as well.
KE4: The KE4 has a smoother, warmer sound with a slightly thicker texture and slightly more laid-back vocals. Its timbre is impressive, sounding natural. It’s more relaxed compared to the 61T. It doesn’t offer the same level of detail as the 61T but excels in providing a more natural timbre and sounds smoother.
Both IEMs have a single vent. Some people reported a pressure feeling with the 61T, similar to all BA IEMs, while some people also said that their KE4 has a slight driver flex. Neither IEM comes with a modular cable option.
To me, if you prioritize detail and separation, the 61T is the better choice, though it doesn’t have the best timbre. The KE4 is ideal if you prefer a slightly more relaxed sound with a natural timbre and less emphasis on detail.
Regarding the Explorer, it has a more intimate and slightly darker sound compared to the KE4. Male vocals are more forward on the Explorer while female vocals are more forward and more airy on the KE4. The Explorer scales well with volume, becoming more engaging and fun with increased loudness. After listening to the Explorer, the KE4 sounds more airy, open and spacious. A nice warm-neutral sound with a bass boost that’s great for extended listening. The KE4 has much better treble clarity and detail compared to the Explorer.
I haven't heard the Doscinco, so I can’t comment on its sound.
@@Atechreviews Thanks, Axel! 🙏
Axel, thank you for another wonderful earphone review! 👌
Reverend Dr. Thomas,
✝️ The Vegan Vicar 🌱
It’s my pleasure, and thank you so much for watching, Reverend Dr. Thomas, and for your support. 😀
@@Atechreviews, I was 100% keen on acquiring the new bass-enhanced version of the Hisenior Mega5EST, but now...
Incidentally, Axel what is the difference between the Harman target and the so-called "meta tuning"?
@@TheVeganVicar Here is how I understand it: Harman target tuning has a lively sound with a forward mid-range, clean bass with good separation between the mid-bass and the the lower mid-range, making vocals prominent and the overall sound engaging. However, some people might find the mid-range too much maybe. Meta tuning has the same bass but adds warmth with a more pronounced lower mid-range and relaxing the upper mid-range. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference.
Impressive review axel, man driver flex, maybe try with different tips and it might get better.
Thanks for the tip! I gave it a try. It's a soft driver flex that you don’t really notice once you have them on, so it’s not a dealbreaker.
This vs pula Pa02?
The PULA PA02 has a lighter bass response but more forward vocals and extended treble, giving it a dynamic sound. In contrast, the KE4 offers stronger bass with better impact, and it sounds warmer, smoother, and more neutral. It also scales well with volume. Personally, I prefer the bass of the KE4.
@@Atechreviews Thanks for the detailed comparison. Seems like the KE4 a good upgrade from the Pa02.
Kiwi ears ke 4 or simgot ea1000?
Tonality vs technicality: The KE4 has a smooth, balanced tuning that’s never harsh or sibilant, plus it has great bass, actually more than the EA1000. The EA1000 is brighter, which is a bit too much for me, but it does have great bass quality and more detail than the KE4.
How about driver flex?
It's a soft driver flex that you don’t really notice after you wear it, so it’s not a dealbreaker.
Great review. Thx for mentioning the driver flex, seems like a lot of people are having that problem on this IEM. Seems like a super nice iem with a super nice tuning, but driver flex in 2024 at 200dollars is just not acceptable. Might try the Davinci, seems even better! Good comparisons!
Thanks for watching!
Maybe the set I received is an anomaly. Because I do not have near the enjoyment you do with DaVinci. I too listen to SoaD and am a huge TooL fan
Or possibly Dunu simply hand-picked sets to send out to reviewers...
Maybe this type of tuning or tonality isn’t your preference? If you didn’t enjoy the DaVinci, you might not like the KE4 either.
Mid bass scoop :(
Which part?
Lol where