Description
Following in the Footsteps of its Predecessor, KE4 II Introduces a Redesigned Driver Configuration and Refined Acoustic Tuning
(1x) Planar + (2x) Balanced Armature + (1x) Dynamic Driver
Improved Resolution, Layering and Tonal Balance
Medical-Grade Resin
Includes Detachable 2-Pin Cable
KE4 II
The original Kiwi Ears KE4 established a strong reputation with its balanced tuning philosophy and versatile sound performance. Following this foundation, the KE4 II introduces a completely redesigned driver architecture and refined acoustic tuning. Featuring a new 1 planar + 2 balanced armature + 1 dynamic driver hybrid configuration, the KE4 II improves resolution, layering, and tonal balance while maintaining a natural and cohesive listening experience.
Driver Architecture
The KE4 II has been engineered from the ground up, utilizing a completely new three driver-type configuration that achieves greater resolution and midrange texture. The original KE4 was a 2DD+2BA Hybrid configuration, but by upgrading to a more powerful 1DD woofer, an additional driver could be added to enhance the fundamental frequencies, all while keeping the 4 driver framework. Compared to the original KE4, the new driver configuration optimizes driver load, particularly in the mids and trebles, enhancing technical performance and timbre.
Newly Developed Drivers
A single 10mm biocellulose dynamic driver subwoofer delivers precision sub-bass and bass impact rich with textural rumble. A custom-made dual balanced armature drivers focus on layered and articulate mids and lower-trebles. An innovative custom microplanar ultrasonic tweeter brings out airy micro-details.
Compared to balanced armature tweeters, the microplanar ultrasonic tweeter is able to significantly output greater +20kHz treble extension at lower distortion. Importantly, the timbre of microplanar drivers are smoother and more natural sounding compared to balanced armature drivers, which are often described as “plasticky”, or electrostatic drivers, which can feel too metallic.
Refined Take on Modern Sound
The KE4 II was tuned following a new tonal ideology. Based on modern target preference curvatures, the KE4 II refines the sound signature to balance neutrality with musicality. The lows feature a dedicated 8dB sub-bass shelf that cuts off precisely at 200Hz, providing enough bass rumble for all genres, while keeping the midrange free from bloating or muddyness.
The midrange is completely flat from 200Hz to 1kHz, allowing a studio monitor presentation of vocals and instruments. This allows the music to be heard as it was recorded, without any artificial colorations to the sound. The treble peaks exactly at 3kHz, following the perceived hearing compensation for the ear anatomy. The ultra-treble has been tamed to allow a more natural and fatigue-free listening while maintaining a spacious soundstage thanks to the fast transients of the microplanar driver.
Optimal for Every Genre
The KE4 II sits at the tonal balance that is perfect for every musical genre. Whether it is pop, rock, hip-hop, or classical music, the secret to the KE4 II’s performance lies in its sound signature. Each musical genre is presented as it was intended, allowing the KE4 II to sound incredible, no matter what song is playing. Moreover, the KE4 II is perfect for all usage scenarios, including stage performance, sound engineering, musical enjoyment, and gaming.
(1x) Planar + (2x) Balanced Armature + (1x) Dynamic Driver
Improved Resolution, Layering and Tonal Balance
Medical-Grade Resin
Includes Detachable 2-Pin Cable
KE4 II
The original Kiwi Ears KE4 established a strong reputation with its balanced tuning philosophy and versatile sound performance. Following this foundation, the KE4 II introduces a completely redesigned driver architecture and refined acoustic tuning. Featuring a new 1 planar + 2 balanced armature + 1 dynamic driver hybrid configuration, the KE4 II improves resolution, layering, and tonal balance while maintaining a natural and cohesive listening experience.
Driver Architecture
The KE4 II has been engineered from the ground up, utilizing a completely new three driver-type configuration that achieves greater resolution and midrange texture. The original KE4 was a 2DD+2BA Hybrid configuration, but by upgrading to a more powerful 1DD woofer, an additional driver could be added to enhance the fundamental frequencies, all while keeping the 4 driver framework. Compared to the original KE4, the new driver configuration optimizes driver load, particularly in the mids and trebles, enhancing technical performance and timbre.
Newly Developed Drivers
A single 10mm biocellulose dynamic driver subwoofer delivers precision sub-bass and bass impact rich with textural rumble. A custom-made dual balanced armature drivers focus on layered and articulate mids and lower-trebles. An innovative custom microplanar ultrasonic tweeter brings out airy micro-details.
Compared to balanced armature tweeters, the microplanar ultrasonic tweeter is able to significantly output greater +20kHz treble extension at lower distortion. Importantly, the timbre of microplanar drivers are smoother and more natural sounding compared to balanced armature drivers, which are often described as “plasticky”, or electrostatic drivers, which can feel too metallic.
Refined Take on Modern Sound
The KE4 II was tuned following a new tonal ideology. Based on modern target preference curvatures, the KE4 II refines the sound signature to balance neutrality with musicality. The lows feature a dedicated 8dB sub-bass shelf that cuts off precisely at 200Hz, providing enough bass rumble for all genres, while keeping the midrange free from bloating or muddyness.
The midrange is completely flat from 200Hz to 1kHz, allowing a studio monitor presentation of vocals and instruments. This allows the music to be heard as it was recorded, without any artificial colorations to the sound. The treble peaks exactly at 3kHz, following the perceived hearing compensation for the ear anatomy. The ultra-treble has been tamed to allow a more natural and fatigue-free listening while maintaining a spacious soundstage thanks to the fast transients of the microplanar driver.
Optimal for Every Genre
The KE4 II sits at the tonal balance that is perfect for every musical genre. Whether it is pop, rock, hip-hop, or classical music, the secret to the KE4 II’s performance lies in its sound signature. Each musical genre is presented as it was intended, allowing the KE4 II to sound incredible, no matter what song is playing. Moreover, the KE4 II is perfect for all usage scenarios, including stage performance, sound engineering, musical enjoyment, and gaming.
SKU: KIW-KE4-2