Kiwi Ears - Cadenza

How are these so good?!?! I was using Sony wh1000mx4 for 5 years... Then a couple of months ago I found out about IEMs. I went and tested all of Noble and Kinera IEMs up to 3000$+. I wanted to like something to buy something but I didn't like anything. Then I saw everyone recommending Cadenza. 35$? I just blindly bought them. No expectations, I would just give them away to my kid if I didn't need them. Heck no, I'm not giving them away now. I'll just buy him another set. And my wife also because she wanted to take mine after listening XD. Why so good? Why so much better then 300$ Sony and a bunch of more expensive stets? And How? I mean I'm really curious how did they do it? What should I try next? And it has a bunch of black, white, and grey-red tips. What's the difference?

this IS, the kind of post that should be put here, don't ask based on price, ask based on musical taste, so you can give a recommendation 7 times better than the average truth. double recommendation, tripowin vivace, kiwi ears cadenza. either one will be exactly what you are looking for.

Appreciate the tldr rec for the Cadenzas, ordered a pair to check them out.

They sound fine. My ears are not really compatible with IEMs tho

My ears get sweaty and itchy if I leave things in for too long

Everybody talking about everything but nobody ... nobody is suggesting you to check the iem rankings on thus community .... Which is pretty great .... Its KIWI EARS CADENZA ... thank me later ... it is best iem regarded under 50 dollars

I dont want to force your buying decision : Though I had wanger S.G , kefine klean , chu 2 and kiwi ears cadenza .... Chu 2 and kiwi ear cadenza are great ... why you ask that metallic shell iems are not placed at the top ... because they absorb moushire and can maybe end of clogging one of the sides in long run ( if you dont of take a good care of iem ) but kiwi ears cadenza are absolutely steal at 35 bucks

I also have tinnitus and jumping into this hobby has been a real awakening. I cannot recommend the Kiwi Ears Cadenza enough for this problem. I own about 7 sets of iems and the Cadenza so far I found had been the best reproduction at lower volumes, and even when raising the volume a little bit they haven't made anything worse or uncomfortable actually quite the opposite no fatigue whatsoever. Hope this helps!

I just got them and I am incredibly impressed.

I have them both and enjoy both of them but to my ears and tastes I do prefer the Cadenza. Cannot beat them for the price and they punch waaaayyy above their range.

Which one is better is going to be totally subjective. But, everyone can agree on Vivace being better in gaming. For me, Cadenza is the sweet spot. For music, I love the warm tonality of it. The bass can be felt but it's not boomy or punchy; it's subtle. For my ears, it lacks the excitement, so I just EQ'ed it. Now, it's very natural and fun. https://preview.redd.it/tjfxtqggrhke1.png?width=2400&format=png&auto=webp&s=4afdb3d6deb00a2c5ffc01c01597fa260cdfb2c5

Here's what I know from personal experience: 1. The chu 2 suffers from paint scratching issues. 2. The zero:2 had a cable that I hated and even though I think they've changed it, the current one doesn't look amazing. I've also had a freak manufacturing defect on one which was a pain to get replaced under warranty. I'd probably go with the cadenza or the vivace

I have them both and enjoy both of them but to my ears and tastes I do prefer the Cadenza. Cannot beat them for the price and they punch waaaayyy above their range.

whoa! for my ears and my preference. The Cadenzas ranks in-between the Chu2 and Zero2. There's no better or worse...Chu2 being brighter...and Zero2 being more bassy. Again...I EQ...so your mileage may differ. Whether the difference is worth the money, that's up to you

check the community recs for under 50...that's where I started (kiwi ears cadenza, Moondrop Chu 2, and the 7Hz Salnotes x Crinacle Zero 2) There should be enough of a difference between 2 of those sets to start getting a frame of reference. You'll likely hear the differences between those and your Astral

Simgot has a few under 60. Kinera Celeste Wyvern Abyss and the Kiwi Ears Cadenza are both solid at around 35usd. if you're willing to get up to 80-90 USD mark...that's where you find the Hexa. Bassier and fun can be found with the Zero Red and the Zero Blue 2. Lots of choices tbh. Watch some reviews of the community recommendations and whatever gets recommended in this thread...then make a choice (from consensus) Another's preference may not be your preference.

Personally, i feel the best of the three is the InAwaken Dawn. It just has a special quality about it that i find very engaging, and really enjoy. You and i listen to very simialr music, so take that as you will. Plus they look gorgeous, and come with a great accessory pack of quality tips, a good cable, and a fantastic carrying case. The Klean is also a good set. However, the tuning nozzles on it are, IMHO, a bit gimmicky. The alternative Black Nozzle is a little too bright and glaring. And, myself, and others, have experienced some QC issues with the filters. My Black Filters have one side that is quieter than the other. Some people have had that issue with the stock silver filters too. So, be aware that this may be a problem on your set also. The accessories pack on the Klean isnt anything to get excited about. Tips are sufficient, and the cable is functional, and the carrying case is decent enough. Now, i will say, that i do have some bias with the Klean. The Kefine Delci AE is one of my favorite sub $100 single DD sets. And the alternative nozzle on the Delci AE sounds amazing. And it really brightens up the tonality of what is a predominantly warm set. The Klean, on the other hand, is a little brighter on treble extension than the Delci past 10k on the stock tuning, while having very similar overall tunings. So the Klean gives at lot of the same energy i like from the Delci AE, but it gets to be a little too much with the alternative nozzles. So, this is where my personal head bias comes into play, because i am intimately familiar with the Delci AE's sound, and i find the Klean to be a little lacking in technicalities to the Delci AE, while also sounding too similar. Which is why i keep coming back to the Dawn more, because it has a different tonality to its flavor. Basically, because i have the Delci AE, the Klean becomes the orphaned step child of the two. Now, one area where the Klean will excel over the Dawn is durability. If you plan on wearing these outside a lot in direct sun, i would go with the Klean, as the Dawn being full resin, can, with time, have some yellowing, or crazing issues. As all fully resin IEM's can, when being exposed to the suns UV rays. I try to keep all my resin IEM's as indoor only sets for that reason. The Cadenza is a good little single DD set. But i dont think it is as good as the Dawn or the Klean. If you really want to have the Cadenza sound...just pick up the KBear KB01. Exact same driver and tuning made in the exact same assembly facility as the Cadenza, and its like $10 cheaper.

i would be pretty interested in the NX8, but both seem good. i have a pair of cadenza's and t2's, i like both, but something (either of these really) that have a higher price tag, makes me somewhat intrigued. i know the be all end all is obviously not the price, but with the price comes some other features that i have yet to have in any IEM. sale items, probably a new cable for either of the ones that i currently have.

T10 is great. Vastly superior to thr Cadenza. But, 2 things... 1: Planars NEED Power. The more, the better. So you will need a decent Dongle DAC with good power to drive them.. 2: If you have small ears, avoid the T10. It's round shape is not conducive to comfort. I have pretty average sized ears. Medium shading towards small and the T10 hurt my outer ear, I get hot spots, and extreme discomfort. Tip selection helps. And everyone's anatomy is different. But ve aware a lot of people find it uncomfortable, despite its fantastic sound quality.

--- ## The Context The Kiwi Ears Cadenza has gained attention as a potential upgrade in the budget IEM category, particularly when it comes to driver and sound quality. My goal with this review is to evaluate whether it truly offers an improvement over other popular IEMs in a similar price range, such as the Tangzu Wan'er SG and Salnote Zero 2. Additionally, I aim to test the full potential of its driver to see how it performs under various conditions. This review is based on my hands-on testing and overall listening experiences. --- ## Review ### 1. Build Quality The build quality is what you can expect from a $30 IEM: it's cheap. The KZ Castor Pro feels more premium. The IEMs are so lightweight that I feel like there's nothing on my ears. It's a good thing when it is about comfort. About the stock cable I don't feel confident with it; it's very thin. Overall, it's forgivable as the IEM looks good, at least. --- ### 2. Sound When I put these on with the stock eartips, I was extremely disappointed. The sound was awful-bright and sibilant. I tried every included tip and size, but the result was the same. Then I decided to use the eartips from my KZ Castor, and it sounded good. Personally, I am not a fan of this type of tuning, but there are times when I prefer a balanced sound. So, this does suit the mood. It's boring, but it's fine. --- **__Bass:__** The bass is present but lacks weight and depth. It leans toward a flatter, more neutral presentation with minimal sub-bass extension. While it avoids muddiness, it also doesn't provide the engaging, punchy low-end that some people might prefer (including me), especially for genres like Hip-Hop or EDM. --- **__Mids:__** The mids sounded clear, lacking warmth, but they were neutral and enjoyable. I enjoyed the acoustic guitar and piano so much on Cadenza! It puts my KZ Castor Pro to shame. The upper mids were not as forward as the Wan'er, but both male and female vocals sounded decent on Cadenza. If I am to compare the Cadenza with the Wan'er, the latter sounds fuller and warmer. This is probably due to the mid-bass scoop on the Cadenza. Still, it's fairly good. --- **__Treble:__** The treble is where the Cadenza's issues with stock eartips were most noticeable. It's overly bright and prone to sibilance, which can make extended listening uncomfortable. With better eartips, the treble smooths out and becomes tolerable, though it still leans toward a brighter presentation and might need to EQ. The soundstage and imaging are fairly average. Nothing too great in terms of accuracy and separation. Busy genres like rock music can sound congested, but I think it does fairly well for the budget. --- ### Do I feel like the need to EQ? For the most part? No. But, I do find it sibilant at higher volume. So, the only adjustment that I had to make is on the Treble side. --- ## 3. Driver This is the only thing where I was impressed and really felt like it was an upgrade! The Beryllium dynamic driver is impressive. It passed my distortion test at max volume. It's very EQ friendly. Although, it struggles when there is more than +1db gain in the sub bass region and use Wavelet's "Bass Tuner" with Sustain Compressor mode. The limiter needs to be turned on for this. With stock tuning it's not a problem tho. But, to be honest, I have yet to find a set that can handle that thing without applying a limiter. Even my bassy over the ear Sony headphones couldn't handle it. So, I call this driver competent for EQ'ing. --- ## 4. Conclusion While I do like the Cadenza, but other than the driver quality, there's not much difference I've felt while listening to this. It doesn't do anything exceptionally well. It's only recommended as the first IEM if the budget is not tight. But, if someone already got something like Salnote Zero 2, Wan'er SG or Gate, this upgrade doesn't make any sense.

A lot of people, including myself, like the Kiwi Ears Cadenza's overall tuning I got used to the Cadenza's slightly bright tuning in the upper midrange since it stayed just below being sibilant for me. I am looking forward to comparing the Unicrom to the Cadenza.

At your budget, being new to IEMs and your use cases...you are better off picking a IEM. There are a couple of issues that you have to figure out. - Fit. I'm one of those people that have ears that can accommodate most if not ALL IEMs that's out in the market. Fit isn't just a matter of size of the ear and ear canal but also the shape of your ear. Some IEMs are "semi custom"...meaning they're contoured and may have a bump for securing the IEM in your ear. - Sound. Assuming you have experience with consumer grade earphones and/or headphones. A V-shaped IEM maybe the easiest transition into IEMs. Most budget sets will likely fit what you're looking for. The Cadenza is certainly a well known set...and a solid choice for a newcomer. The Zero 2, Kefine Klean, Wan'er 2 and the Tanchjim Bunny are all quite popular for a first IEM. I'm personally not a fan of the KZ offerings (not going to say why...don't want that to affect your decision) TBF...all the sets you listed are considered budget sets in the general IEM scene😅

this IS, the kind of post that should be put here, don't ask based on price, ask based on musical taste, so you can give a recommendation 7 times better than the average truth. double recommendation, tripowin vivace, kiwi ears cadenza. either one will be exactly what you are looking for.

also...Kiwi Ears Cadenzas are worth a look. I have these as well...and they fit between the Zero2s and the Chu2 for bass (again for my taste) One other thing to consider...these 3 IEMs vary in size. Chu2 are significantly smaller than the Zero 2. Also...don't despair when you first try any of them. Make sure the ear tips and sealing properly. If the fit isn't good...you'll lose bass response right off the jump

I have them in my ears as I type this. It's a solid choice.

I've got both. It's kinda hard decision. Both are good, just zero reds are better in technicalities and maybe slightly in detail retrieval. Cadenza is great too, has a tactical bass, very cool to listen to heavy metal and the drums double kick, you can literally feel the texture. Also cadenzas are slightly warmer than zero reds which are even more neutral but with less midbass and that makes them being "less warm". Honestly if I had to buy only one, I'd stick with zero reds since for me they are more versatile IEMs and with the impedance adapter they go pretty close to the cadenzas sound signature. Either way you cannot go wrong. Edit: Also Zero reds take better the EQ than cadenzas in my experience. I guess that's due to the dual dynamic drivers.

Castor Pro is exciting and fun, but not EQ friendly (if you are using Apple music with max volume it can't handle Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal, Atif Aslam and Arijit 's high pitch vocals) western songs will not have any issues. With stock tuning, there will be no problem, but if you EQ the treble region, there will be distortion. On Spotify, it's very pleasant even with EQ. If I am to compare Cadenza and Castor Pro with this EQ profile: https://preview.redd.it/qo1y7i1a07ee1.png?width=2400&format=png&auto=webp&s=3941703199f3e3dc6571989e848b98877f628143 On Spotify, Castor Pro gives me an Eargasm... It makes me feel excited and enjoy the music. Cadenza is just okay and sharp. They sound identical but Castor Pro will have warmth making the music more listenable.

Why these two? Cadenza is a$30 IEM (Get the KB01 for $20, it's exactly the same) And the other is an $80 dollar tribrid IEM. They aren't in the same class. So I am confused as to why these two?? The Cadenza is mildly better than the Chu2, but not enough to not call it a side grade. And the KB01 exists for Chu2 money if you really want to hear it. The EW300 is sub mid. Lots of ear gain issues, and generally not that amazing. It's way over hyped, IMHO. If you want that tuning, get the TRN Shell, or the new Simgot EG280. I like it more than the EW300, ans it comes with a DAC that has EQ tunability via their app. There is a lot a lot of good stuff at $50, and even better sub-$100. So it's weird to see two totally different priced IEMs as your choices.

IEMs:- Campfire Andro 2020 > Shure se846 > Sennheiser ie800 > Dunu sa6 > Sony mdr ex800 > Sony xba N3 > final a4000 > Sennheiser ie200 > etymotic er2xr > Sennheiser ie600 > Kiwiears Cadenza > Shure se215 > blon bl03 > Moondrop Space travel Headphones:- Audeze LCD2C > AKG K701 > hd600 > hd660s > hd6xx > hd650 > Meze 109 > Koss porta pro > Grado sr225 > Grado sr80

ok, they were fun to me😅

The part of the shell that contacts your ear is the same between the two. The Cadenza has a little bigger booty. So it sticks out a little more, but both are equally comfortable. If you want to wear it under a winter cap, or side sleep, probably the KB01.

Honestly, I don't think there's anything better than Castor Pro under $25 if you are talking about a fun V-shaped sound signature. You may find recommendations with more bass, but there's nothing that does bass, mids and treble as good as Castor Pro does. I switched many budget IEMs, the most time I spent with are Castor Pro and Cadenza. I love Cadenza for how good it is for EQ'ing and the comfort. It's super lightweight. If I have to criticize Castor Pro, it's mainly because it kinda struggle with EQ. I hope they fix it with future IEMs.

OP... don't get rid of your Astral. Someone else mentioned it already...but it's a lack.of reference that has you second guessing. EQ (parametric EQ) is a good tool. It can help you fine tune the sound of the IEM to your liking. But...the IEM should sound good to you out of the box. HD550...hmmm... just go for the legend. Save for the HD600. I wrote down my experiences and things I learned as a beginner [Posted here](https://www.reddit.com/r/iems/s/u2D7CWFQw9) Go and find all the reviews you can on the Astral. Listen to the terminologies and try to associate what you hear from the Astral. Then pick up a budget set or two (if you want to learn) watch those reviews from the same reviewer. See if you can hear what they are hearing...and establish a frame of reference. Hope that makes sense. Outside of that...you picked a really good IEM. Stick with it. HD

# Kiwi Ears Cadenza - My Ultimate EQ Profile & Guide I've been using the Kiwi Ears Cadenza for almost a month now, clocking over 300 hours of listening. At first, I wasn't impressed, but after switching to the stock white silicone eartips, I started appreciating it. It's pleasant and handles my library well even without EQ. [Genres I listened to ](https://preview.redd.it/kg754u1on6ge1.jpg?width=1079&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f2d660f1a450dcd61456db731997e423a5b01baa) However, to my ears, the default tuning sounds dark, and the vocals lack presence. It's enjoyable, but it didn't have that WOW factor I was looking for. Since the Cadenza's driver is highly responsive to EQ, I spent so many hours fine-tuning an EQ profile that has everything I need-while staying customizable for different preferences. If you're unsatisfied with the Cadenza's stock tuning, you can try my EQ profile! It works on Android (Wavelet) and PC equalizers. I'll also guide anyone new to EQ'ing so you can tweak it to match your taste. # EQ Profile Overview [Reference Target ](https://preview.redd.it/p2rlh8rqn6ge1.png?width=2400&format=png&auto=webp&s=57bd313d1bfdf4e60698654427e210966ba0a364) [Vs PEQdb Average ](https://preview.redd.it/wukye9rqn6ge1.png?width=2400&format=png&auto=webp&s=1bf9a3ef23daebc6cd0ca5514bd1c76558ea8c99) The EQ profile is based on my reference target which is basically PEQdb average with slight emphasis on bass. Which I think is acceptable for most people, and if not, the EQ profile is still customizable just by unchecking certain adjustments. [EQ Profile Values ](https://preview.redd.it/xhrg19etn6ge1.jpg?width=1079&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1302e68cb8d0203a15682a53e3bb12ee1fb33a6a) 🔹 **Base EQ Profile (Balanced, Clean, & Airy)** This tuning refines the Cadenza's default sound by: ✔ Slightly reducing bass - still present but less overpowering. ✔ Cleaner mids - mid-bass warmth is controlled for better separation. ✔ Enhanced vocal presence - upper mids are slightly lifted. ✔ More air & treble clarity - fixes the default dark tonality. https://preview.redd.it/rd573vaxn6ge1.jpg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cf55d78019972b6d44db9fd01d186426660fe0b5 Closest comparison: Somewhat similar to Truthear Zero : Red if you disable the 1.2k-2.8k adjustments. It shines with classic rock, soft pop, and night-time listening. 🔹 **Warm & Dark Profile (Enhanced Mid-Bass, Smooth Treble)** If you like the stock warmth but want slightly more mid-bass, try this: https://preview.redd.it/h1v2itl5o6ge1.jpg?width=1061&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c2cadd8a8864a3f176a8f048c8b82628c2c5e83b Uncheck 105-190Hz for extra warmth. Uncheck 6120Hz for a smoother treble. Uncheck 10kHz if treble feels too much (or lower from 5.4dB → 3.5dB). Uncheck the last 3 adjustments to restore default treble. **Perfect for: Hip-Hop, EDM, and relaxed listening.** 🔹 **Bassy but Clear Mids (Best All-Rounder)** Want deep bass without muddying vocals? Try this: https://preview.redd.it/9vxftw88o6ge1.jpg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=db1fb64ecf03965276176bcc05fcae70f02bf07e Uncheck 105Hz only. This keeps the clarity of mids & vocals intact while adding punchy bass. It's a versatile setting that works well across most genres. **This is my personal favorite.** # 🔽 Download: [EQ Profile Link](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Wb7yhJ12ZEvpBuEA6wsuLqwRNJOsgSCY/view?usp=drivesdk) # How to Use the EQ Profile 1️⃣ Go to [Squiglink](https://squig.link/?share=Kiwi_Ears_Cadenza) search for Kiwi Ears Cadenza. 2️⃣ Click on Equalizer > Scroll down > Import. 3️⃣ Select the downloaded EQ profile. 4️⃣ Adjust as needed, then Export for Wavelet (Android) or PC Equalizer. https://preview.redd.it/2c3w59q2o6ge1.jpg?width=1079&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=209f82bcd25a124b5bfa891f5d9f6371042b4b2d # Final Thoughts The Kiwi Ears Cadenza has an amazing driver, and with proper EQ, it competes with more expensive IEMs. This profile is highly customizable-whether you prefer warmth, clarity, or a balanced sound, you can tweak it to match your style. I'll be happy to help anyone new to EQ'ing! Let me know your thoughts or if you need guidance. 🎧 What do you think of the Cadenza's stock tuning? Have you tried EQ'ing it? Let's discuss!

The Cadenza's an absolute belter for the price. I still listen to mine regularly.

Out of the sets you've listed. I own(ed) The Cadenza and the 7Hz Zero 2. For a first IEM...I can say either one is a good choice. IEM shape and size between those two...the Cadenza is slightly more compact and contoured. The Zero 2 "looks" uncomfortable...but it was actually isn't. If you have concerned with it's angular look and you can't reliably return the product...perhaps stick with the Cadenza. I have had a Castor Pro Bass Edition (the one with switches) I was not a fan...as my unit had driver flex (hearing the driver flex when the IEM is being adjusted in ear due to lack of proper venting) Have since read about various QC issues mentioned...but most seem to be in the past. I choose not to purchase their IEMs...because there are many others to choose from😉 Last thing to mention...ear tips. Aside from the sound and IEM fitment...ear tips is a consideration as well. Most IEMs will come with an assortment of tips. Take your time going through ALL the tips the set comes with. Even to the point of mismatching sizes between left and right. Human anatomy is funny like that as we are NOT symmetrical😂😂 You will want to get a good (eartip) fit and seal into the ear canal. You will know if you're not properly fitted if the IEM sounds "tinny" or "there's no bass" Super*review has many helpful videos if you get deeper into IEMs. This one will be useful when your first set arrives: [https://youtu.be/ZcEzrA2SzbU](https://youtu.be/ZcEzrA2SzbU) He also has another regarding ear tips. I'll let you find that one...it's on the same channel.

I own both the Truthear Hexa and Kiwi Ears Cadenza. After listening to both, I really can't decide which is better. Hexa costs twice as much.

did you roll tips on it? They were flat for me on first listen...once I got the right eartips fit...it got fun

Either the Cadenza or the Zero Red with fiio btr11 it adds some warmth but not too much.

daily driving kiwi ears cadenza, but i've went through a pair of salnotes zeros, and a pair of linsoul tangzu waners as well as daily drivers. probably gonna swap back to the tangzus once i get a new cable for em

Kiwi Eara Candenza green one and the Tangzu Wan'er SG II Jade edition, GOATED

I also have tinnitus and jumping into this hobby has been a real awakening. I cannot recommend the Kiwi Ears Cadenza enough for this problem. I own about 7 sets of iems and the Cadenza so far I found had been the best reproduction at lower volumes, and even when raising the volume a little bit they haven't made anything worse or uncomfortable actually quite the opposite no fatigue whatsoever. Hope this helps!

I just got them and I am incredibly impressed.

OP...have you looked at Kiwi Ears Cadenza or KZ Castor Pro Bass Edition? Both respond well to EQ. Cadenza's bass is punchy and can satisfy your sub-bass rumble. The Castor Pro Bass Edition allows the user to tune the IEM with onboard switches. It's bassier than the Cadenzas in my opinion. I own both...and I get a deeper and more satisfying brain rattle from the Castor Pro Bass Edition from Angel by Massive Attack and Interlude by Yosi Horikawa. They both provide satisfying thumps to Billie Eilish's bad guy. Cadenzas lose a bit of mid treble detail (for me) on Starboy by The Weeknd. Both sets are currently under 35 USD (your pricing may vary)

I bought the xm4 too release date and the cadenza as my first iem last year and had the same reaction Enjoy!

I WHOLE HEARTEDLY AGREE WITH YOUR POINTS: https://preview.redd.it/vwxf7i53neye1.jpeg?width=2377&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9aafdf70e38f01e9e6e88692e4c7f79caca103d8 This is MY collection...and I'm very early in the journey. I don't have the budget, knowledge or experience to blind buy a 500USD+ set of in ears that may or may not fit my ears or my preferences. While my journey doesn't completely fit OP's blueprint...I have/had the same thought process regarding purchasing IEMs. Not pictured are the Moondrop Chu 2 and 7Hz Sonus. I started with the Chu 2, 7Hz Zero 2 and Kiwi Ears Cadenza. From listening, watching and reading reviews...I was able to learn about all the terms, labels, and vocabulary to describe what I like or don't like. I threw money at the Wyvern Abyss...I mean...LOOK AT THEM😂. The Kz Castor Bass was a curiosity buy...want to hear if a set touting bass response was really that bassy. My next steps were the NiceHCK F1 Pros, Kiwi Ears Canta and the 7Hz Sonus. The F1 Pros and the Sonu were on sale at the time of purchase...good value and able to narrow things down more for myself. I knew I liked the planar sound...I have a set of open ear planar cans. The F1s felt disappointing (until I tip rolled) The Sonus was about much for my taste (in the mids) The Cantas were quite nice for me. By this point...I had a good grasp of what I was looking for and the direction (s) I want to go in. AFUL Performer 5+2 is currently my go-to...for all around listening. Sourced from R2R DAC lined out into a desktop tube amp. It's like a warm blanket on crisp bright and snowy winter day. I picked up the Hexa because I wanted to hear the hype...and yes...they definitely fulfill the hype and then some. I've EQed my IEMs... especially the planar. They can mimic the sound...but it's only a part of the equation. I now rotate through 3-4 sets at my desktop listening station. The cheapo ones all have 3.5mm out for around the house or for bed. If they break...ill decide if I want to replace. Tip rolling is a journey of itself. Some tips can dramatically change an IEM and rescue it from the bottom of the pile. My Planars now sport foam tips...easing off the treble was huge. Anyway...long post...if you got this far thanks for sticking with my diarrhea of words. TLDR: I agree with the OP

Although not a bullet-style IEM like those listed above, I find the Kiwi Ears Cadenza to be very small and comfortable.

You do realize that you guys are arguing over KZ and CCA (er, I mean, KZ), right? You have to have a set with excellent imaging, soundstage, detail retrieval, separation/layering. I'm not saying you have to spend $300+ to get all of that, but you gotta do better than the Castor Bass Pro and Rhapsody. C'mon now. At least mention the KE Cadenza. 7Hz Zero2? Wan'er? Wyvern Abyss? Let's get crazy with the cheese whiz.

Moondrop kato, i had it, its V shape sound with a great bass sound. Kiwi, and KZ iems are great too However there's many options at this price range,

I don't think Kiwi Ears Cadenza would give you what you are looking for because Cadenza is neutral with a sub bass boost. What you are looking for in the "Energetic bass" is the mid bass all these IEMs are lacking. They are bassy, but mostly elevated sub bass because it is a safe tuning. To prevent mid bass overpower the vocals. You will get all the rumbly thumps, but not the punch. If you are looking for that, under $20 you have the KZ Castor Pro Bass. https://preview.redd.it/8f2d0qd74pce1.png?width=2400&format=png&auto=webp&s=d3922f0d622a62fb121d5590f82d988091bd50e3 Unfortunately, there's not many IEMs that are tuned like this. So I can't suggest something alternative to Castor Pro. If you don't mind trying KZ, you can look into it. Don't get the OG Castor, it sounds awful.

EQ won't give you the quality, but sure you can EQ to match your preference. If the tonality is correct, you would automatically keep coming back to it. I keep coming back to Cadenza's because of the natural tonality and timbre. It has the best timbre out of every IEM I own. So, after EQing it, it became my go to set to listen to music. The only issue with Cadenza was the treble extension. After EQ, it feels pretty good. Not as spacy, but very smooth and natural. https://preview.redd.it/s7h0furrclif1.jpeg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=473149b03e8e4895962d30b835af053e8ed6b7b2 It handles EQ really well. So, getting a good set that can handle EQ, is important. Most of the multi driver sets are sophisticated and EQ can introduce distortion. But, surely EQ is the easiest way to enhance your listening experience.