Aful Performer 5+2 VS Kefine Quatio
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Aful Performer 5+2 and Kefine Quatio use 2DD+4BA+1Planar and 2DD+2BA driver setups respectively. Aful Performer 5+2 costs $229 while Kefine Quatio costs $130. Aful Performer 5+2 is $99 more expensive. Aful Performer 5+2 holds a clear 0.8-point edge in reviewer scores (7.6 vs 6.8). Kefine Quatio carries a user score of 8. Aful Performer 5+2 has better bass with a 0.9-point edge, Aful Performer 5+2 has significantly better mids with a 1.4-point edge, Aful Performer 5+2 has significantly better treble with a 1.1-point edge, Aful Performer 5+2 has better dynamics with a 0.8-point edge, Aful Performer 5+2 has better soundstage with a 0.7-point edge, Aful Performer 5+2 has significantly better details with a 1.2-point edge and Aful Performer 5+2 has significantly better imaging with a 1.1-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Aful Performer 5+2 | Kefine Quatio |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 7.9 | 6.9 |
| Mids | 7.7 | 6.3 |
| Treble | 7.2 | 6 |
| Details | 7.2 | 6 |
| Soundstage | 7.2 | 6.5 |
| Imaging | 7.2 | 6.1 |
| Dynamics | 7.3 | 6.5 |
| Tonality | 7.6 | 6.8 |
| Technicalities | 7.5 | 6.4 |
Aful Performer 5+2 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.6Strongly Favorable
Kefine Quatio Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
6.8Cautiously Favorable
Reviews Comparison
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Jaytiss
8.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Aful Performer 5+2 lands as a hybrid of the beloved Performer 5 and the punchier Explorer. The unboxing is the familiar P5 affair—same case, same style of tips—nothing flashy, but solid. The shell mirrors the P5 in size with a comfy little stabilizing wing that locks in well. No metal nozzle or front filter here, yet tip retention is secure and hassle-free. The flat 2-pin socket is straightforward, and the stock cable feels thick and supple with a reliable chin slider and handy red/blue channel markers. Overall: understated build, great ergonomics, daily-driver ready.
Sonically, this one aims neutral with a very distinct top end—clean, dynamic, incisive. Think switching from black-and-white to color; cymbals and overtones pop with a slightly crunchy/pristine edge that energizes detail without turning harsh on good recordings. Bass isn’t about sheer quantity; it’s about slam and dynamics—quick on the draw, well-controlled, and satisfying when called upon. Vocals sit a notch forward, microdetail is strong, and the overall presentation is coherent, clear, and technical with convincing stage, resolution, and imaging. Not a treble-shy or bass-bombed tuning—more a refined all-rounder for those who want clarity and bite.
Versus the original P5, the 5+2 fixes the missing “air” and soft edges, trading them for crisper transients and better extension. Compared with Explorer (a value champ), the 5+2 brings superior upper-treble reach, detail, and vocal focus. Against Performer 8 and Cantor, it feels more visceral—the P8 is smoother and more relaxed, while Cantor pulls finer microdetail but with less bass slam. Sets like Dino Quattro or J’s Estrella bring bigger fun or treble theatrics, yet the 5+2’s balance and everyday versatility win more often. Net take: a neutral-leaning, highly technical upgrade that stands tall in its bracket—easy to recommend to anyone chasing clarity, speed, and controlled impact over pure warmth or excess bass.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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Kefine Quatio reviewed by Jaytiss
7
Reviewer Score
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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Price: $129
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Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Audio-In Reviews
7.8
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The AFUL Performer 5+2 continues AFUL's streak of strong releases in the mid tier, bringing a tribrid driver setup into the very competitive 200 to 300 dollar range. The shell is well finished, slightly larger than the original Performer 5 but still very comfortable, with careful contouring that avoids hot spots in daily use. Build quality feels solid, the faceplate design is arguably AFUL's best yet, and the soft, easy to manage cable complements the overall aesthetics very nicely.
Sonically the set sits between neutral and mild V-shaped, with a boosted bass and a bit of extra treble energy while the mids stay slightly relaxed. Bass quantity is north of neutral, focused below roughly 200 to 300 hertz with good extension, giving a punchy, dynamic and physical low end that provides a visceral sub bass experience without noticeable bleed into the mids. A touch of extra low mids adds warmth, note weight and richness to male vocals while the midrange remains clean, detailed and natural, without odd peaks or dips. Treble carries some of the delicate character expected from a micro planar driver, with forward lower treble that adds bite and energy, plenty of upper treble extension, shimmer and air, staying engaging without becoming harsh or fatiguing; only a slightly less natural cymbal timbre versus sets like Da Vinci, Dino Quattro and Butterfly 61T stands out as a minor nitpick.
Technical performance is very strong for the price, at least on par with the Butterfly 61T, previously a reference for technicalities around 200 dollars, and the Performer 5+2 may even edge it out in soundstage and imaging, which come across as slightly above average versus other in ear monitors in this range. Within the 200 to 250 dollar bracket it can reasonably be considered one of the best technical performers available, while still offering an engaging, airy and exciting tuning that many listeners could daily drive. Those who prefer a smoother, more relaxed upper mid and treble presentation might still lean toward the Butterfly 61T, but the Performer 5+2 earns a very strong recommendation for anyone wanting a more lively, high performing tribrid that competes confidently among the top options in this segment.
Audio-In Reviews original ranking
Audio-In Reviews Youtube ChannelKefine Quatio reviewed by Audio-In Reviews
6.4
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The Kefine Quatio comes in around $129 with a sturdy all-metal, egg-shaped shell, a robust modular cable and a generous selection of tips and replaceable tuning nozzles. Build and comfort are very good for the price, with an easy fit and stable seal even over longer sessions, though the aesthetic leans toward a plain, minimal look. The interchangeable silver, gold and black nozzles each offer a slightly different take on a Harman-style tuning, giving the choice between more vocal presence, more bass warmth or something in between.
With the black nozzle, the Quatio pushes bass just north of neutral while keeping the boost fairly mild, striking a nice balance between mid-bass punch and sub-bass presence. Bass quality, tactility and texture are impressive for this price point, with only minimal bleed into the lower mids, and the overall bass level mainly leaving a desire for just a little more quantity. The mid-range follows through with a natural, accurate presentation of vocals and instruments, offering good clarity and detail plus a convincing tonal balance that lets bass and mids complement each other well; together they feel like a standout aspect of the tuning in this bracket.
The trade-off comes in the treble, which leans on the smoother and safer side with decent lower-treble presence but a noticeable roll-off up top, limiting air and perceived treble detail. Staging, imaging and layering sit around average for the price, and while the Quatio may not be the most technically showy set versus options like Defiant, Explorer or Deli AE, it does avoid sharpness and harshness that can plague brighter competitors. In the end, it is not necessarily the definitive “best” choice around $100–$150, but for listeners who value good balance, naturalness and a relaxed, engaging listen over maximum sparkle, the Quatio stands out as a very solid and satisfying option.
Audio-In Reviews original ranking
Audio-In Reviews Youtube ChannelAful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
7.5
Reviewer Score
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelKefine Quatio reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
6.5
Reviewer Score
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelAful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Tim Tuned
7
Reviewer Score
Kefine Quatio reviewed by Tim Tuned
5
Reviewer Score
Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Jays Audio
6.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Performer 7 lands with a neutral-balanced, laid-back tuning and good treble reach. The presentation is clean and generally safe, though there’s a touch of sizzly “planar-ish” timbre up top. Technicals are solid for ~$200—slightly behind sets like Quintet and Super Mix 4, about on par with Nova. Bass from the dual 6 mm DDs is tight, controlled, and free of bleed, but lacks the slam and rumble of competitors using larger drivers; mids are well separated with decent layering.
The weak spot is vocal extension: a push around 1.5 kHz tries to bring them forward, but a dip through 3–6 kHz keeps them from opening up. Tamer upper-mids help avoid fatigue for rock/metal, yet the modest low-end impact leaves drums and basslines feeling uneventful. It’s a mid-volume set that doesn’t scale well—turning it up accentuates the 1.5 kHz emphasis and treble sizzle. Treble isn’t peaky, just a bit glassy at times; for K-pop the smoother mids can work if less extended vocals are acceptable.
As a value play, there are stronger options: Nova, Chopan, and Super Mix 4 offer better bang-for-buck; for a similar clean/neutral target, Tanchjim Origin sounds more natural with better bass texture and vocal reach, and DynaQuattro adds sub-bass and fuller vocals—none with the planar-ish timbre. Even AFUL’s own P5 is cheaper and more fun, while the Explorer undercuts the price and scales impressively. In today’s crowded market, P7 is a competent all-rounder but not distinctive enough to stand out.
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Kefine Quatio reviewed by Jays Audio
6.5
Reviewer Score
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Paul Wasabii
6.1
* Score computed by IEMRanking.com
Youtube Video Summary
The AFUL Performer 5+2 takes the familiar hybrid recipe of dual 6 mm dynamics, four balanced armatures and a micro planar and spins it into a distinctly vocal focused presentation. Vocals are pushed very close, giving an intimate, close talker character that will immediately stand out from more typical U shaped hybrids. This forwardness comes at a cost, as the overall soundstage feels flatter and smaller than many competitors, with the midrange taking center stage at the expense of a more spacious image.
The dual 6 mm drivers deliver a sub bass tilted low end that has respectable rumble and enough level to support genres that appreciate extra weight, while avoiding obvious boom or bloat. Impact and tactility are on the softer side, and combined with the elevated midrange and treble, bass presence tends to sit very close to the vocals rather than carving out its own layer. This crowding effect, together with the warm, smoothed textures, means layering and separation never really open up, giving the Performer 5+2 a more compact, blended presentation than many modern tribrids.
The treble region is where the tuning feels least controlled, with peaks across the upper mids, presence and air bands that can bring out snare hits and sibilants and push the micro planar into an overdriven, slightly unnatural timbre. The intended advantage of the micro planar is largely lost in this boost, keeping overall technicalities such as detail retrieval, imaging precision and stage depth firmly in the moderate camp rather than a clear step up from AFULs other models. As a result, Performer 5+2 emerges as a niche choice for listeners who strongly prioritize upfront vocals and do not mind a smaller, more intense stage, while those looking for a more balanced, spacious and natural presentation will likely find better options elsewhere.
Paul Wasabii Youtube Channel
Kefine Quatio reviewed by Paul Wasabii
6.6
* Score computed by IEMRanking.com
Youtube Video Summary
KEFINE Quatio delivers the brand hallmark: a rock-solid metal build, generous accessories and a value-first hybrid at roughly $130. The tuning is a modified Harman with elevated sub-bass and modest mid-bass, giving a warm, satisfying low end while keeping upper-mid energy trimmed for non-fatiguing listening. Coherence is strong because the dual dynamic drivers carry the spectrum up to about 5 kHz before the BAs join.
That bass tilt also pulls the mids inward; body and lower-mid resonance are a bit light, so vocals and instruments can sound less filled out. Treble has clear lower-treble presence but a safe upper treble, trading air and sparkle for smoothness, which limits perceived resolve, micro-detail and layering compared with more technical hybrids. It sits closer to Delci than Clean: musical, easygoing and preference-friendly rather than a detail or resolution showcase.
Quatio feels priced exactly where it should be: a bass-friendly, coherent daily driver that favors timbre and comfort over chasing technical fireworks. Listeners who dislike lean U-shapes or bright Harman takes will likely prefer this voicing; those seeking airy extension and class-leading detail should look elsewhere.
Paul Wasabii Youtube Channel
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Web Search
7.7
Reviewer Score
The AFUL Performer 5+2 (also listed as “Performer 7”) uses a 2DD+4BA+1 micro planar driver array and AFUL’s LC-network crossover plus a 3D-printed acoustic tube system, aiming for clean band splits without smearing. The shell also integrates a high-damping air-pressure balance system, a design AFUL has used across its line. Official listings put MSRP around $229 and outline the same core tech features.
Tonally it trends neutral with a sub-bass lift: bass has solid depth and texture, mids stay relatively linear, and the presence/treble region adds energy without veering into sharpness on most chains. Multiple reviews characterize it as warm-neutral with bass boost or slightly V-shaped depending on perspective, which matches listening notes about a lively but controlled upper end. Sensitivity and load are portable-friendly (≈109 dB, 15 Ω), so it reaches performance without demanding amplification.
Technicalities are competitive for the class: imaging is tidy with good instrument separation, micro-detail retrieval is above average, and soundstage is moderate (more width than depth). Build and comfort are typical resin-shell fare; some users note occasional lower-treble bite depending on tips and recordings, so treble-sensitive listeners may wish to pair accordingly. Overall value is strong at its price, especially if a clean, bass-supported neutral curve is the priority.
Kefine Quatio reviewed by Web Search
8
Reviewer Score
The KEFINE Quatio impresses with its premium build quality and versatile tuning options. Its lightweight aluminum alloy shells offer both durability and comfort, while the included modular cable with 3.5mm/4.4mm terminations provides flexibility for various sources . The standout feature is the three interchangeable nozzles: gold for a bright, detailed signature, silver for balanced neutrality, and black for a warm, smooth presentation - allowing users to tailor the sound to their preferences .
Sonically, the hybrid 2DD+2BA configuration delivers punchy bass and textured mids across all tunings, with the gold nozzles particularly enhancing vocal clarity and treble energy . While bass enthusiasts might desire more impact, the overall coherence and natural timbre are exceptional for the price point. The technical performance shines through articulate imaging and a spacious soundstage, though some critical listeners may note slight treble roll-off on the black/silver nozzles .
At $129, the Quatio offers remarkable value with its triple-tuning system and comprehensive accessory package including multiple ear tips and a premium case . It stands as a compelling choice for those seeking adaptable sound signatures without compromising on build or technical prowess.
Aful Performer 5+2 (more reviews)
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Z-Reviews
8.5
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
Naming drama aside (P5+2? just call it Performer 7), this Aful packs a quirky driver party: 2DD for low end, 4 BA split across mids/treble, plus a tiny micro-planar for the highest sparkle, all marshaled by Aful’s neat miniature crossover. The shells are lightweight, comfy and prettier than they need to be; the cable feels “don’t bother swapping” nice, with 3.5 or 4.4 options. The box is loaded with silicone tips but no foam—a miss, because the right seal changes everything. Price target sits around $250, which sets expectations high but not ridiculous.
Stock silicone yields a surgical, respectful tuning with bass that skews neutral and controlled. Swap to well-sealing foam or hybrids and feed a juicy source (warm Class A or tubes) and the set wakes up—stage snaps into a cohesive scene right in front, imaging gets laser-etched, and that micro-planar adds a pinch-of-salt treble spice without turning harsh. It’s an up-close presentation—sometimes almost claustrophobically detailed—in the best way: think “men with trumpets in the head,” precise placement, and excellent extension up top. Not as rowdy as the Explorers; more like a surgeon in a Hawaiian shirt—technical, but with a wink.
Practical upside: the clarity and positioning make this great for gaming and even viable for mixing/mastering checks; just don’t crank it into pain territory. Bass stays tight and responsive, treble sails high, and coherence holds. Tip and source matter a lot: with foam + warm power, it sings; with plain silicone, it’s merely polite. Final tally: a confident 8.5/10—doing a lot right at its price, dinged half a point for making everyone do math on the name.
Z-Reviews Youtube Channel
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Audio Amigo
8
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
The AFUL Performer 5+2 (Performer 7 / P7) takes the P5 recipe and adds a second 6 mm dynamic for the lows and a micro-planar for the highs, nudging MSRP to $240. Unboxing mirrors the P5: nine pairs of tips and a decent case, but the accessories feel bare-bones at this price—no foam tips and a non-modular cable, even though the included 8-wire is supple and well-behaved. Build is classic AFUL: 3D-printed resin, blended nozzle (no mesh or lip—watch tip retention), single rear vent, and striking blue-green mosaic shells inspired by Suzhou gardens—cool-wall approved with four compliments to one “meh.” Fit is semi-custom and a touch chunkier than P5; comfortable for most, a conditional pass for small ears. Note a sporadic batch quirk: some units have over-tight 2-pin sockets; exchanges fixed it for affected buyers.
Tuning sits in warm-leaning neutral territory. The dual dynamics deliver punchy, textured bass that rumbles without bloating; guitars and drums carry convincing weight. Mids are the star—rich, full-bodied, vocal-forward without shout, with clean separation and natural tone. Treble from the micro-planar is smooth yet energetic: cymbals and vocal harmonics sparkle, special effects have bite and body, and only treble-sensitives may find hot mixes a bit lively. Technicalities impress for the money—detail retrieval and nuance feel a class up—while stage and imaging are solid rather than showy.
Against peers: the Tangzu x HBB budget pick mirrors the overall tonality but P7 offers higher resolution and more treble finesse; the planar “Heyday” alternative is brighter/faster with leaner bass; versus Performer 5, P7 brings tighter low-end, smoother treble, and better extremes detail; the Fresh-collab competitor pushes vocals further forward with bigger stage but leaner lower mids. Verdict: a versatile all-rounder that suits broad libraries and even content creation thanks to its balanced tonality and detail. Not for bassheads, trebleheads, or strict Harman-lean seekers, and the accessory pack/cable quirk holds it back from a slam-dunk. For roughly $240, though, it’s a brilliant, resolving upgrade in the AFUL line.
Audio Amigo Youtube Channel
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Super* Review
8*
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
Aful’s Performer 5+2 upgrades the original hybrid with 2DD + 4BA + 1 micro-planar tweeter and lands around $240–$250. The unboxing is practical: three sets of silicone tips, a pocketable puck case, and a soft, nicely draping cable (available in 4.4 or 3.5), though the braid can look a bit loose and the pre-formed hooks run large. The resin shells shift between blue and green under different light; fit is medium-large, very stable, and comfortable once the right tips are found. Note the narrow nozzle without a retaining lip and partially exposed bores/filters—tip grip is key and a little care prevents ear-gunk ingress.
Tonally this leans mild V-shaped: a clean midrange with a confident bass boost, a touch of lower-treble presence for bite, and well-extended air up top. The result is more incisive and punchy than the original P5, with clearer on/off transients that aid separation and layering. Trade-offs show as a hint of gritty/plasticky treble texture on cymbals and brushes—not harsh, but less natural than ideal—while the bass stays tight and exciting.
Against Aful’s Explorer, this sounds brighter, more spacious, and more technical; Explorer plays warmer/denser with smoother treble but less openness. Versus the pricier Thieaudio Oracle MK3, tuning is broadly similar: Oracle is smoother and deeper with a softer attack, while the Performer 5+2 brings more snap and engagement for less money. As a modern mid-tier hybrid, it absolutely still has a place—energetic, spacious, and well-executed—earning a solid four stars.
Super* Review original ranking
Super* Review Youtube ChannelAful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Kois Archive
7.8
Reviewer Score
Kois Archive Youtube Channel
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Audionotions
7.5
Reviewer Score
Kefine Quatio (more reviews)
Kefine Quatio reviewed by
Fresh Reviews
6*
* The score of this reviewer influences only the Gaming
Score
Kefine Quatio reviewed by Head-Fi.org
8.5
* score rescaled + normalized
Aful Performer 5+2 Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+4BA+1Planar
Tuning Type: Neutral with Bass Boost
Brand: AFUL Top AFUL IEMs
Price (Msrp): $229
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Kefine Quatio Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+2BA
Tuning Type: Neutral, Neutral with Bass Boost
Price (Msrp): $129.99
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Aful Performer 5+2 User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
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Kefine Quatio User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score:
Based on 1 user reviews
8Very Positive
Aful Performer 5+2 Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.5Gaming Grade
AKefine Quatio Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
6.7Gaming Grade
B+Aful Performer 5+2 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- Tuning feels well executed, keeping a natural flow across the spectrum. Switching genres feels seamless.
Average Technical Grade
A- Overall technical control is strong, presenting instruments with clarity and sensible staging. Textures are portrayed with satisfying clarity.
Kefine Quatio Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
B+- Tonality is generally agreeable, though a few bumps remind you of its limits. Certain tracks spotlight its tonal quirks.
Average Technical Grade
B- An honest, middle-of-the-road performance preserves structure without chasing micro-detail. It's respectable for everyday listening sessions.
Aful Performer 5+2 User Reviews
"This is an example review"
Pros
- Example pro 1
- Example pro 2
Cons
- Example con 1
- Example con 2
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You need to be signed in to write your own reviewKefine Quatio User Reviews
Share your experience and build your personal ranking list.
You need to be signed in to write your own reviewOutstanding value hybrid IEM offering refined musicality and premium feel at $129, competing above its price tier.
Pros
Premium CNC aluminum build, versatile tuning nozzles, and exceptional accessories including modular cable. Warm, lush sound with punchy bass and natural mids ideal for vocals.Cons
Treble lacks air/sparkle for some, mid-bass warmth occasionally blurs definition. Soundstage width is average despite good depth.Buy Kefine Quatio on Aliexpress
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