Aful Explorer and CCA HYDRO use 1DD+2BA and 2DD+8BA driver setups respectively. Aful Explorer costs $120 while CCA HYDRO costs $120. Aful Explorer holds a slight 0.3-point edge in reviewer scores (7.3 vs 7). CCA HYDRO has significantly better mids with a 1-point edge and Aful Explorer has significantly better treble with a 2-point edge.
Insights
Metric | Aful Explorer | CCA HYDRO |
---|---|---|
Mids | 5 | 6 |
Treble | 7 | 5 |
Soundstage | 6 | 6 |
Dynamics | 7 | 7 |
Tonality | 6.3 | 6 |
Technicalities | 7 | 5 |
Jaytiss Reviews Comparison
Aful Explorer reviewed by
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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CCA HYDRO reviewed by
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 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 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
A-- You get a controlled, composed performance, marrying decent clarity with a still-modest sense of space. A safe technical performer for the price bracket.
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
C+- It offers a competent showing, maintaining cohesion on straightforward arrangements. Complex passages start to challenge it, but never derail the show.
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