Kiwi Ears Astral - Reviews & Ratings
1 Review (S Tier | 8.5/10)
Summary
Reviewers consider the Kiwi Ears Astral to be a top-tier favorite that keeps its magic no matter how many times it returns to the ear. It matches premium build with comfort that disappears during long sessions. The hardware and the sound share the same care.
Kiwi Ears Astral Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+6BA
Tuning Type: U-Shaped
Brand: Kiwi Ears Top Kiwi Ears IEMs
Price (Msrp): $299
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Review
8.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The Kiwi Ears Astral offers a solid build quality with comfortable shells that fit well, featuring a practical nozzle design that holds ear tips securely. The included cable is notably high-quality, featuring a functional chin slider, a sleek bluish-purplish-gray hue, and connectors that are exceptionally easy to swap. While the case is utilitarian and similar to other Kiwi Ears offerings, the overall package is practical and well-appointed.
Sonically, the Astral stands out as a special and highly competitive set at its $299 price point. It delivers a beautifully tuned, balanced tonality that hugs the target curve closely, offering a satisfying amount of bass, well-executed upper mids, and a generally pleasing, non-fatiguing sound. While it may occasionally lean slightly shouty or risk sounding dull on certain tracks compared to more aggressively tuned alternatives, it excels as a refined all-rounder. Its technical performance – including spaciousness, detail retrieval, and rich bass texturing – is impressive for the price, though micro-details and ultimate pristine clarity aren't class-leading.
The Astral trades blows with top competitors like the Performer 7 (slightly darker/richer) and the Volume S (better dynamics but less sub-bass), often coming out ahead for its cohesive balance. It significantly improves upon predecessors like the Kiwi Ears Quartet or Singolo, offering better upper-mid presence and technicalities. Ultimately, it represents a fantastic option for those seeking a well-tuned, balanced IEM, delivering a highly enjoyable and versatile listening experience with minimal faults. For its price, it's exceptionally hard to beat, earning strong marks across the board.
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User Reviews
Average User Scores
Average User Score:
Based on 2 user reviews
8.3Very Positive
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You need to be signed in to write your own reviewImaging and separation performance on this IEM gives a holographic nature to tracks of all genres. Extremely versatile. Technical performance competes with many higher-priced sets.
Pros
Extremely clean separation and technical performance. Treble is very clean at price point. Mids are clear and transparent, and are simply good with little to no coloration. Forward vocal region, but does so in a way that should be great for all.Cons
Midbass could be raised slightly, and sub bass can be too forward at times. Treble clarity only slightly behind much more expensive sets. Raised 7-9khz region, but not peaky.A technically adept IEM with a balanced, engaging U-shaped signature that excels in bass texture, vocal clarity, and spatial presentation—offering exceptional value despite sparse accessories.
Pros
Powerful, textured sub-bass with deep rumble; natural vocals with excellent clarity; airy, non-fatiguing treble with strong extension; and outstanding imaging/soundstage for the price.Cons
Limited eartip selection affects fit optimization; bulky shells may cause discomfort during extended use; mids occasionally lack warmth and can feel slightly recessed.Compare Kiwi Ears Astral to popular alternatives
VS
| IEM | alt. Score |
|---|---|
|
Kiwi Ears Astral vs. MYER SL224
MYER SL224 offers better dynamics and soundstage.
|
8.6 |
|
Kiwi Ears Astral vs. Punch Audio Martilo
Punch Audio Martilo offers better dynamics.
|
8.6 |
|
Kiwi Ears Astral vs. ZiiGaat Crescent
ZiiGaat Crescent offers better dynamics.
|
8.5 |
|
Kiwi Ears Astral vs. Softears Volume S
Softears Volume S offers better mids and treble.
|
8.5 |
|
Kiwi Ears Astral vs. Letshuoer S15
Similar overall performance.
|
8 |
|
Kiwi Ears Astral vs. Ziigaat Odyssey 2
Similar overall performance.
|
8 |
|
Kiwi Ears Astral vs. TANCHJIM x Effect Audio Force
TANCHJIM x Effect Audio Force offers better treble.
|
7.8 |
|
Kiwi Ears Astral vs. Tanchjim Origin
Similar overall performance.
|
7.8 |
|
Kiwi Ears Astral vs. Binary Dynaquattro
Binary Dynaquattro offers better dynamics.
|
7.8 |
|
Kiwi Ears Astral vs. Jays Audio x ZiiGaat Estrella
Similar overall performance.
|
7.8 |
IEM Finder Quiz
newAverage Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- It presents a smooth, well-integrated tonal balance that plays nicely with many styles. It maintains natural timbre across the range.
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.