Etymotic ER2XR and CCA HYDRO use 1DD and 2DD+8BA driver setups respectively. Etymotic ER2XR costs $100 while CCA HYDRO costs $120. CCA HYDRO is $20 more expensive. CCA HYDRO holds a decisive 1.9-point edge in reviewer scores (5.4 vs 7.3). Etymotic ER2XR has slightly better mids with a 0.3-point edge, CCA HYDRO has slightly better treble with a 0.3-point edge, CCA HYDRO has significantly better dynamics with a 4-point edge and CCA HYDRO has significantly better soundstage with a 1-point edge.
Insights
Metric | Etymotic ER2XR | CCA HYDRO |
---|---|---|
Bass | 6 | 7.3 |
Mids | 6.3 | 6 |
Treble | 4.8 | 5 |
Details | 5 | 7.3 |
Soundstage | 5 | 6 |
Imaging | 4.5 | 7.3 |
Dynamics | 3 | 7 |
Tonality | 5.8 | 6.8 |
Technicalities | 5.1 | 6.3 |
Etymotic ER2XR Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
5.4Mixed to Negative
CCA HYDRO Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.3Generally Favorable
Reviews Comparison
Etymotic ER2XR reviewed by Jays Audio
CCA HYDRO reviewed by Jays Audio
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
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Etymotic ER2XR reviewed by Jaytiss
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
CCA HYDRO reviewed by Jaytiss
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
Etymotic ER2XR (more reviews)
Etymotic ER2XR reviewed by Super* Review
Etymotic ER2XR reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelEtymotic ER2XR reviewed by Precogvision
Precogvision Youtube Channel
Etymotic ER2XR reviewed by Tim Tuned
Etymotic ER2XR reviewed by Nymz
CCA HYDRO (more reviews)
CCA HYDRO reviewed by Head-Fi.org
Etymotic ER2XR Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD
Tuning Type: Neutral
Brand: Etymotic Top Etymotic IEMs
Price (Msrp): $100
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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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Etymotic ER2XR User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
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CCA HYDRO User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
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Etymotic ER2XR Gaming Score

Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
5.3Gaming Grade
C+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
BEtymotic ER2XR Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
B-- A mostly enjoyable signature keeps things listenable despite a handful of quirks. It handles most playlists without major complaints.
Average Technical Grade
C+- Overall technicalities are acceptable, delivering enough clarity for casual sessions. Imaging is serviceable though not immersive.
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.
Etymotic ER2XR User Reviews
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