Having previously reviewed many models from Kiwi Ears, I now find myself exploring their Airoso model. With its hybrid configuration consisting of 1 dynamic and 4 balanced armature drivers, this IEM immediately catches attention with its design and technical promise. I began my listening sessions using the stock black eartips, but it quickly became clear that this IEM deserved more than the default setup could offer.
Unboxing, Accessories, Build Quality
The packaging follows Kiwi Ears’ familiar style—simple, clean, and elegant. Inside the box, you get a 4-core copper cable (3.5mm with 0.78mm 2-pin connectors) and several sets of silicone eartips. The tips noticeably affect the sound, and I’ll dive into that shortly. The nozzle diameter is 6mm, and the body weighs just 12g. Overall build quality is impressive for its price class, offering a reassuring in-hand feel.
Technical Specifications
• Driver Configuration: 1 dynamic driver (LCP + PU diaphragm), 2 balanced armatures (high), 2 balanced armatures (ultra-high)
• Impedance: 18 Ohms
• Sensitivity: 110 dB
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
While this may look conventional on paper, the Airoso surprises in practice with characteristics that exceed expectations—especially in soundstage, resolution, and separation.
Bass
From the first track, the bass is warm and pleasing. It’s not just about quantity; the tonality is natural. Impactful yet non-fatiguing, the low end is articulate and controlled. In electronic tracks, basslines take on an agile and flexible character. The dynamic driver clearly contributes here, offering a full, analog-like texture.
With a switch to white tips, the bass presentation doesn’t change character but becomes noticeably faster and more defined. Combined with improved instrument separation, the low frequencies gain balance and energy appropriate to tempo. It’s not boomy or muddy—just right, with a confident and measured presence.
Midrange
Initially, mids sounded a little recessed with the black tips, but once swapped out for the white ones, the soundstage opened up and vocals stepped forward. The tonality is smooth and intimate—not too laid-back nor in-your-face. Even when mixed with complex electronic layers, the midrange holds its ground without smearing.
Guitars and other mid-centric instruments come through with a satisfying level of clarity. Positional cues within the soundstage are respectable. Considering the price, midrange resolution is strong—and most importantly, the presentation remains natural and non-fatiguing.
Treble
At first, the treble felt somewhat veiled, but after changing tips, it opened up and added a sense of air. There’s a noticeable layer of detail without any sibilance. Cymbal extensions, string textures, and electronic effects shine through with respectable presence.
The dual ultra-high frequency BAs contribute especially well in layered compositions, giving a sense of depth and layering. Treble doesn’t push boundaries into ultra-resolution territory, but it maintains clarity and avoids harshness—even at higher volumes.
Pros
• Warm, controlled bass response
• Well-balanced, smooth mids
• Smooth but articulate treble
• Impressive 3D soundstage for the price
• Responsive to eartip changes
• Agile in electronic tracks, rhythmically stable in rock
Cons
• Stock eartips limit full potential
• Vocals and solos can sometimes be pushed back
• Instrument separation may suffer in dense mixes
• Treble extension is decent but not top-tier
Kiwi Ears Airoso Review Conclusion
The Airoso is one of Kiwi Ears’ most well-rounded offerings, blending musicality and technicality in a smartly executed hybrid design. The 1+4 driver configuration is used wisely here, and when you consider the build, packaging, and tonal character, it offers impressive value higher than Cadenza. With small tweaks like eartip changes, you can fine-tune its personality across genres.
