Kinera Celest Yaksha VS Kiwi Ears ETUDE

Jaytiss original ranking

Jaytiss original ranking

The Kinera Celest Yaksha combines a 2DD+1BA+1 micro-planar driver setup with a four-way crossover, resulting in a coherent yet distinctly V-shaped sound. Bass emphasis leans toward the mid-bass, delivering satisfying punch and slam for genres like hip-hop and EDM, though sub-bass texture and speed feel less refined. Vocals, particularly female vocals, carry notable energy and forwardness in the upper midrange, but this can border on shoutiness with certain tracks, while male vocals occasionally take a backseat. Treble remains smooth and non-fatiguing, prioritizing listenability over sparkling extension or airiness.

Technically, the Yaksha presents a moderately wide soundstage but lacks significant depth and height, creating a more intimate headspace. Instrument separation is competent in less complex passages, but layering can struggle during busy sections, falling short of class-leading resolution. The ergonomic resin shells offer comfort for extended sessions, though achieving an optimal seal is crucial and tip-dependent. The included 6N OCC Litz cable with interchangeable 3.5mm/4.4mm plugs is a practical inclusion, though its colorful design might clash aesthetically with the shell options.

Ultimately, the Yaksha excels as a forgiving, non-critical listen best suited for dynamic, bass-forward genres where its warmth and vocal energy can shine. Its tuning sacrifices ultimate detail retrieval and sub-bass control for a consistently engaging and musical presentation. Listeners seeking a smooth, fun signature with solid build and accessories will find merit, but those prioritizing neutrality, technical precision, or deep sub-bass rumble might explore alternatives.

The Kiwi Ears Étude offers a distinctive listening experience centered around its Kiwi Vibration Transducer (KVT), which adds a subtle tactile sensation to bass frequencies. This isn’t a gimmick—it lends sustained notes like bass guitars or synth lines an organic, textured quality that feels immersive without overpowering the mix. That said, the KVT can introduce mild reverb in lower-mid frequencies, occasionally coloring male vocals in podcasts or sparse tracks.

Tuning-wise, the Étude follows a mild V-shaped signature with an 8dB sub-bass lift and smooth, relaxed treble. The midrange remains relatively neutral, though vocals can lack body in acoustic tracks without bass accompaniment. While the beryllium dynamic driver delivers punchy kicks, the real star is the KVT’s physicality, which creates a holographic low-end that enhances EDM and hip-hop. Technical performance is competent for the price, with average soundstage width and decent separation, though imaging lacks precision.

Fit may be divisive due to the large shells housing the transducer, and the nozzle’s lack of ridges limits eartip options. Source pairing is critical too: the KVT scales noticeably with powerful amplification, unlocking fuller dynamics. Despite quirks, the Étude succeeds as a fun, genre-specific IEM that stands out in a crowded market.