Aful Explorer VS CCA HYDRO
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Aful Explorer and CCA HYDRO use 1DD+2BA and 2DD+8BA driver setups respectively. Aful Explorer costs $120 while CCA HYDRO costs $120. CCA HYDRO holds a slight 0.1-point edge in reviewer scores (7.3 vs 7.3). Aful Explorer has significantly better treble with a 1.8-point edge and Aful Explorer has slightly better soundstage with a 0.3-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Aful Explorer | CCA HYDRO |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 6.5 | 7.3 |
| Mids | 6.2 | 6 |
| Treble | 6.8 | 5 |
| Details | 6.5 | 7.3 |
| Soundstage | 6.3 | 6 |
| Imaging | 6.5 | 7.3 |
| Dynamics | 7 | 7 |
| Tonality | 7.1 | 6.8 |
| Technicalities | 6.9 | 6.3 |
Aful Explorer Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.3Generally Favorable
CCA HYDRO Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.3Generally Favorable
Reviews Comparison
Aful Explorer reviewed by Jaytiss
7.3
Reviewer Score
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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CCA HYDRO reviewed by Jaytiss
7
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Build & fit hit above the price: a sleek, glossy shell that’s a bit of a fingerprint magnet but sits securely with a small nozzle and generally comfy ergonomics; only the backside contour may trip up a few ears. The stock QDC-style cable feels plush and durable—decidedly “world-class” at this tier. No case in the box, but that’s a minor nit when the overall presentation feels A1.
On the rig, the Hydro shows tight channel matching and a versatile tuning via dip switches. The curve echoes heavy-hitters—think a tasteful 2.5–3 kHz rise, a dip after, and robust sub-bass with real treble extension. Comparisons point toward Monarch/Annihilator territory for tonality cues, while still keeping its own flavor: weighty bass and sparkling air without mid-bass bloat. The result is genre-agnostic confidence—female/male vocals, instrumentals, metal, R&B, gaming, even movies—all come through clean, lively, and engaging.
The “problem”? Not the sound—sonically it’s a standout—but the brand baggage some attach to KZ/CCA. Set that aside and Hydro reads like a reckless trend-setter: a double-DD + 8BA hybrid that punches way up, credibly sparring with sets in the $500–$600 bracket while costing far less. With its fit, tuning, and value—plus that excellent cable—this is an easy recommendation for anyone chasing a musical, detailed, and switchable all-rounder.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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Aful Explorer reviewed by Jays Audio
6
Reviewer Score
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
CCA HYDRO reviewed by Jays Audio
6.5
Reviewer Score
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Aful Explorer reviewed by Head-Fi.org
8
* score rescaled + normalized
CCA HYDRO reviewed by Head-Fi.org
8.5
* score rescaled + normalized
Aful Explorer (more reviews)
Aful Explorer reviewed by Audio Amigo
8.5
* score rescaled + normalized
Aful Explorer reviewed by Z-Reviews
8.5
* score rescaled + normalized
Aful Explorer reviewed by Super* Review
8*
* score rescaled + normalized
Super* Review original ranking
Super* Review Youtube Channel
Aful Explorer reviewed by Kois Archive
7
Reviewer Score
Kois Archive Youtube Channel
Aful Explorer reviewed by Audionotions
7
Reviewer Score
Aful Explorer reviewed by Smirk Audio
6.8
Reviewer Score
Aful Explorer reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
6.5
Reviewer Score
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelAful Explorer reviewed by Shuwa-T
6.4
Reviewer Score
Aful Explorer Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+2BA
Tuning Type: Neutral with Bass Boost
Brand: AFUL Top AFUL IEMs
Price (Msrp): $120
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CCA HYDRO Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+8BA
Tuning Type: V-Shaped
Brand: CCA Top CCA IEMs
Price (Msrp): $120
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Aful Explorer User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
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CCA HYDRO User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
No user reviews yet. Be the first one who writes a review!
Aful Explorer Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
6.9Gaming Grade
B+CCA HYDRO Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
6.4Gaming Grade
BAful Explorer Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A-- A smooth, agreeable balance keeps the presentation engaging without obvious flaws. Only sensitive ears will nitpick the bumps.
Average Technical Grade
B+- The presentation is steady if unspectacular, holding onto essential details when the music stays simple. Fine details occasionally slip through the cracks.
CCA HYDRO Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
B+- It sounds pleasant overall, with some uneven spots that hint at room for refinement. Vocals remain pleasant despite the imperfections.
Average Technical Grade
B- It offers a competent showing, maintaining cohesion on straightforward arrangements. Complex passages start to challenge it, but never derail the show.
Aful Explorer User Reviews
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