On this page
Quick specs
| Drivers | 2 x 10mm dynamic (isobaric), 2 x custom balanced armature |
|---|---|
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Sensitivity | 110dB |
| Impedance | 32 ohms |
| Shell material | Medical-grade resin |
| Connector | 0.78mm 2-pin |
| Cable | Silver-plated oxygen-free copper, 1.2m |
| Warranty | 1 year earphones, 3 months cable |
How we researched
This review is based on Kiwi Ears Quartet's official product page, its published specifications and pricing, and a comparison with leading alternatives in tech & gadgets. We have not used this product ourselves; scores reflect how it compares on paper.What the Kiwi Ears Quartet is
The Quartet is a wired in-ear monitor (IEM) from Kiwi Ears, sold through Linsoul. It uses a hybrid design with two dynamic drivers and two balanced armature drivers, which is where the four-driver name comes from.
Kiwi Ears pitches it as its fun, bass-forward model. The brand describes it as a neutral studio monitor with added sub-bass and bass emphasis below 350Hz.
Besides the standard universal fit, Linsoul offers custom-designed universal (UIEM) and fully custom (CIEM) versions. The CIEM is made from your own ear impressions, which must be emailed and approved first.
Drivers and tuning
The headline feature is what Kiwi Ears calls an isobaric double dynamic driver subwoofer. It pairs two 10mm titanium-diaphragm drivers, each with dual magnetic circuits, aligned to stay in phase. Kiwi Ears says this produces sub-bass that is tighter, faster, and deeper than its previous woofer designs.
The dynamic drivers hand off to the rest of the system through a passive low-pass crossover at 350Hz. The brand says the 350Hz to 1kHz range is tuned flat, with a hint of warmth in the lower mids, to avoid the muddiness common in bass-heavy earphones.
Two custom balanced armatures handle mid-highs and ultra-highs. Kiwi Ears says they were modified with a tuned venting system and aim for crisp vocals and detailed highs without shrillness. Buyer reviews also mention tuning switches on the shells, though the official spec list does not describe them; reviewers are split on how noticeable they are.
Build, fit and what is in the box
The shells are made of medical-grade resin, and the detachable cable is silver-plated oxygen-free copper at about 1.2 meters with a 0.78mm 2-pin connector. That connector is widely used, so replacement or upgrade cables are easy to find.
The official box contents list only the earphones and a user manual. The page does not state the cable's plug type, and one buyer mentioned receiving several sets of ear tips, so check the listing details before ordering.
On comfort, buyer reviews on the page are mostly positive, though at least one reviewer reported a loose fit and missing left/right markings. With a 32-ohm impedance and 110dB sensitivity, it should run from typical phones and dongles, and one buyer noted it is easy to drive.
Price, shipping and value
The standard Quartet is listed at $98.10, down from a regular $109. Custom versions run up to $278.10. For a four-driver hybrid with an isobaric bass setup, the standard price is competitive.
The buying terms matter here. The product page lists the Quartet as in a pre-order period, and Linsoul states pre-order items are non-cancellable and non-refundable. Linsoul ships from China; standard shipping is free to most countries but can take weeks, and express costs extra unless your order is over $270.
Returns are accepted within 30 days only for factory-sealed, non-customized products. The earphones carry a 1-year warranty, but the cable gets only 3 months. If you want simpler returns, Linsoul also runs an Amazon US store, which may be worth checking.
Who it suits
Kiwi Ears specifically recommends the Quartet for performance drummers and bass guitarists who need powerful lows in their monitors. A couple of buyers on the page say they use it for bass and live gigs.
It also targets everyday listeners who want strong bass without giving up natural-sounding mids. Some buyers mention gaming use as well. People who prefer an analytical, wide-soundstage presentation may look elsewhere, since a few reviewers describe the stage as intimate and the treble as relaxed.
How it scored
Alternatives
| Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|
| Kiwi Ears QuartetThis review | Drummers, bassists, and music fans who want strong, extended bass in a wired IEM without spending much over $100. | Check price |
| Shure SE215 | Durable, proven stage monitoring | |
| Sennheiser IE 100 Pro | Musicians wanting a trusted pro brand | |
| Truthear Hexa | Neutral, less bass-heavy tuning |
FAQ
Is the Kiwi Ears Quartet good for bass?
Bass is its focus. Kiwi Ears built it around an isobaric pair of 10mm dynamic drivers and describes it as bass-centric with extended sub-bass. It is not aimed at listeners who want a lean, neutral low end.
What is the difference between the UIEM and CIEM versions?
Linsoul says the UIEM is a universal version that fits most ears, while the CIEM is custom-made from your ear impressions. The CIEM costs more because of the customization process, and impressions must be approved by email first.
Do I need an amp for the Kiwi Ears Quartet?
The specs list 32-ohm impedance and 110dB sensitivity, which generally means it can be driven by a phone or a basic USB dongle. A dedicated amp is optional rather than required.
Does the Kiwi Ears Quartet have a detachable cable?
Yes. It uses a detachable silver-plated oxygen-free copper cable with a standard 0.78mm 2-pin connector, about 1.2 meters long. The cable is covered by a 3-month warranty.
Can I cancel a Kiwi Ears Quartet pre-order?
According to the Linsoul page, pre-order items are non-cancellable and non-refundable. Make sure you are comfortable with the wait before you order.
Is the Kiwi Ears Quartet good for stage monitoring?
Kiwi Ears recommends it for drummers and bass players who need strong lows, and some buyers say they use it at gigs and rehearsals. Musicians who mainly need vocal clarity on stage may prefer a more neutral monitor.
Final verdict
The Kiwi Ears Quartet is a strong fit for bass lovers and rhythm-section musicians who want a four-driver hybrid at around $100. Its specs and the brand's tuning claims are promising, though buyer opinions on the switches and soundstage vary. Go in aware of the pre-order rules, overseas shipping times, and short cable warranty.
