Introduction
Dunu is among the most famous (and well-recognized) brands in the Chi-Fi industry and therefore an introduction is probably unnecessary.In this review I’ll be covering the Kima 2 IEMs, which are a refresh of their older Kima (that I haven’t tried unfortunately), and I will try to compare them with other similarly priced IEMs.
Technical Specifications
- Driver Configuration → 1 x DD (External Magnet DLC Composite Diaphragm)
- Impedance → 20 Ω
- Spec-sheet Frequency Response → 5Hz-40kHz
- Sensitivity → 108 dB/mW @1kHz
- Cable → 1.25m Four-Core Monocrystalline Copper and Silver-Plated Monocrystalline Copper 2-PIN connectors
- Plug Type → 3.5mm
Packaging
The packaging of the Dunu Kima 2 follows the recent “waifu” trend, and even though I am not a fan of this I kinda understand the reasons behind these marketing things.The Kima 2 come with lots of accessories too, and specifically the box contains:
- The Dunu Kima 2
- The detachable cable with modular plug (you can use either the 3.5mm jack or the 4.4mm jack)
- One set of Dunu Candy (S, M, L sizes)
- One set of Dunu S&S (S, S-M, M, L sizes)
- Two sets of narrower bore tips with the blue and red inner tube
- A spacious and good looking Dunu branded carry case
- User manual
Design, Build Quality, Comfort and Isolation
The Dunu Kima 2 are super sturdy thanks to their stainless steel CNC-machined shells.The rounded shape and the absence of sharp edges provides for great comfort once the right tips are found.
The isolation is not the best out there, but it is still solid enough for daily commuting.
Cable
The cable is a Dunu Lyre Mini, and it’s among the most interesting cables that I’ve seen included in the box as stock cables in this price range, both because of the fact that it’s braided before the Y-split and because the jack plug is interchangeable (you can use either the 4.4mm jack or 3.5mm jack by twisting it off and placing the other one instead).Hands down among the most comfortable cables to wear and use outside as well.
Sound
GEAR USED FOR THE TEST- DAC: Topping E30
- AMP: Topping L30, Fiio A3
- Mobile phones: Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, Xiaomi Mi A3, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
- Moondrop May’s DSP cable with PEQ=0
- Dongle: Apple Type-C dongle, Fosi DS2, Hidizs XO
- Portable DAPs: Benjie S8/AGPTEK M30B
- Bluetooth Adapters: KBEAR S1, KZ AZ10
- Other sources: Presonus AudioBox iONE, Elgato Wave XLR
The Dunu Kima 2 don’t strictly need an amplifier but they can benefit from some good amplification.
Let’s speak about the sound.
It’s a super well rounded set that sounds “correct” and natural, so the bigger strengths of the Kima 2 are basically the timbre and the tonal accuracy.
Starting from the sub-bass, the Kima 2 sound very controlled yet not lacking in terms of extension. The bass doesn’t sound as punchy and chest-hitting as on other sets, instead every kickdrum has a very controlled, fast and clean response that leads to well-managed transients in fast basslines. It’s not the most-textured bass in this price range, but the textures are very good considering the overall bass speed, as usually brands have to thicken the bass in order to extract a good amount of textures from it.
The midrange is not recessed, and it’s presented in a mostly neutral manner with no particular focus. Male vocals sound spot-on, female vocals sound energetic and intimate, and every instrument is where it should be, even though the various sound sources seem to be very near each other.
The treble is tuned wonderfully in my opinion, as it really strikes a lot of balance between energy and control: you can hear that the treble is kind-of airy and sparkling, but it’s not harsh or annoying, it’s not fatiguing at all, and there is no trace of sibilance. If anything, I don’t think that the Kima 2 are very good at rendering the smallest nuances, but the treble is so well-tuned that I really had to focus on analyzing the sound to understand that I was missing out on a few small details.
The soundstage is on the smaller side, so if you listen to orchestral tracks or live recording I would search for something else, but the imaging is pretty good in the small space that these are able to portray.
Are they something I would use considering my taste and preferences?
Yes, mostly because of their tuning, their timbre and their tonal accuracy.
Sometimes I miss that super big and boomy low-end (I am a diehard basshead inside) but I also love to sit and listen to various genres and these are perfect for that: they are super balanced and versatile and it’s very easy for me to pick them and put them in my backpack.
Comparisons
Dunu Kima 2 vs Tanchjim 4U (Pop)Dunu Kima 2 vs Simgot EA1000
Dunu Kima 2 vs Oriveti Dynabird
Dunu Kima 2 vs KZ Zenith (0000)
Final Thoughts
This was my first time trying a Dunu product and I was very happy to have the Kima 2 in my ears for the last few weeks.They are extremely well tuned, nothing feels out of place and at the same time they provide for almost everything you can ask from a properly balanced set. The bass impact has some headroom for improvement, and the same applies for the overall detail retrieval and soundstage rendering, but I think the asking price is spot-on considering the level of refinement that you get with the Kima 2, especially if you also take into account the fact that they come with lots of accessories and a great cable (with interchangeable plugs).
Well done Dunu… Well done!
Disclaimer:
Good morning, readers. Today I finally unlocked a new brand, the Dunu Kima 2. An IEM that, in my opinion, is a fearsome rival of the various Simgot EA500. What makes it somehow very attractive in my eyes is above all the presence of a quantity of accessories that completes the user experience at 360°. I already knew the DUNU brand for their excellent S&S tips that I often use.The Kima 2 is an IEM with an excellent DD with DLC membrane, positioning itself among the entry-level IEMs of excellent quality.
I’m not an audiophile; I’m just a guy that likes to test out different IEMs and DACs and spends a lot of time listening to music.
So I’m not going to use super technical words to review it, but I will do my best to describe it.
Tech Specs:
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz – 40 kHz
- Impedance: 20Ω
- Sensitivity: 108 dB/mW (@ 1 kHz)
- 125 dB/Vrms (@ 1 kHz)
- THD: <0.3% @ 1 kHz
- Driver: External Magnetic DLC Composite Diaphragm Dynamic Driver
- Shell Material: S316 Stainless Steel
- Cable: Four-Core Single-crystalline Copper and Silver-Plated OCC Cable
- Cable Length: 1.2 m ± 0.1 m
- Connector: 0.78mm 2-Pin
- Plug: Q-Lock Mini Interchangeable Plug System, Includes Two Plugs (3.5mm Single-Ended, 4.4mm Balanced)
- Net Weight: Approximately 10.5g (per side)
Packaging:
After some time we find an “anime”-inspired packaging, quite unusual on products that exceed 100 USD but overall I don’t mind. The unboxing experience is one of the most complete that I have been lucky enough to own. With 120 USD IEM, you have at least 40 USD of accessories included that, on the one hand, could have contributed to raising the final price but which, in reality, are extremely useful.
Inside we find:
- Anime stand
- Huge rigid case (double case)
- 4 different types of tips (complete sets)
- Modular cable with 3.5 or 4.4mm termination
- Cable clip and brush
- Manual and warranty
The amount of tips is really crazy! We have a full set of Dunu S&S, a Candy, a Vocal, and an atmospheric. You don’t even see so many tips on 500 USD IEMs. The cable is well made, modular, and has a very robust screw system. The cable has the first thicker part covered in “cordura”-like material and after the split it becomes classic. The case is the largest I’ve ever seen; it easily fits a dongle plus the IEMs.
The only small problem, if we want to say it, is the choice of the case color. The white color, if you assume a use without too many attentions, will soon become gray/black.
Design/Build Quality:
The Dunu Kima 2 has a very interesting look; aesthetically, it is very complex, and the workmanship of the metal shell is a bit futuristic, almost in “mecha” style. I read that someone found them uncomfortable but I don’t think it’s because of the strange shape but more for the angle and length of the nozzle. The material chosen is stainless steel; the IEMs are very sturdy; they have some ventilation holes on the inside before and after the driver. The pressure in the ear canal is perfectly balanced. In terms of weight, I think they are lighter than the Simgot EA500LM, even if only slightly. Overall, the quality of the IEMs and accessories is out of the ordinary and wins hands down against most sets on the market.
Initial sound impression:
If the Simgot is too bright for you, then maybe you are in the right place. They have more or less the same sound quality, or at least I find them very similar in overall quality but the Dunu Kima 2 has a less bright sound and has a greater linearity along the entire spectrum with extremely natural and organic mids. The bass is a little more substantial thanks to a more accentuated sub-bass. The treble instead is less harsh or sibilant, making the set much more universal.
From the first listen, you remain pleasantly amazed by the listening quality, especially the mids, which have that silky organicity that I like. I think it is one of the few all-round IEMs that adapts to your genre; they have found a tuning that works well with any genre.
Comfort & Fit:
I realize that there may be some users who do not find them totally comfortable; my ears are quite large and they easily adapt to a multitude of IEMs. I have not found any problems or discomfort in wearing them but I preferred the DUNU S&S, which slightly lengthens the nozzle as well as helping to improve the soundstage. In my opinion, they do not cause any problems.Tips Rolling:
Dunu itself, by including so many tips, is practically advising you and inducing you to do it. This is the first set that has already included enough tips to let you see and experience on your own skin the enormous differences that the tips make. As always, I recommend trying all the ones you have. I stopped on the Dunu S&S to improve the soundstage, which is not extremely expansive. The S&S help a lot and since the sub-bass response is quite pronounced, you don’t lose much low range. Other tips turned out to be shorter than they should be.Equipment used for testing:
Device:- OSX
- Poco M4 Pro
- Amazon Music UHD
- EPZ TP35 (pretty analytical-balanced)
- Creative Soundblaster G8
- Fosi SK02 (most used)
- Muse Hifi M4 (great pairing – extra treble)
- Fiio KA11
- Fiio KA17
- Fosi DS2
- Simgot DEW4X
- EPZ TP50
- Creative SoundBlaster X5
Final sound impression:
What can I say? I like them! A lot! Graphically, I would have expected a much weaker bass. Overall the punch is quite marked and gives a good feeling of air movement, a result that is honestly unexpected, especially using the DUNU S&S tips. I will also tell you that the soundstage with this combination of tips is particularly correct even if we are unable to focus on instruments and voices outside of our ears.
The thing that surprised me is that it maintains a certain composure both in R&B and EDM genres. It lends itself to different genres without behaving badly at all. Obviously, if you listen to only one genre, there are more suitable sets but if your playlists are a mix like mine, then this is a wise choice. But do you know what further enriches the experience of these DUNU? The accessories! If all manufacturers took an example from them, I assure you that many would already be satisfied just by the packaging, which in this case helps to offer a complete experience even to those who have just entered the hobby.
Bass
In terms of bass, they did a great job. For my taste, the texture is not bad at all; we are not at “Bassheads” levels but the sub-bass is well pronounced, giving a sense of depth to it. If the genre of music you are listening to requires such frequencies, they will come from nowhere. It has the kind of bass that adapts based on the genre you are listening to; it goes from calm to agitated without warning. Overall fast bass, with good texture and excellent punch.Mids
The mids are probably the real protagonists of the set. Given the linearity along the entire spectrum, the mids precede the rest with a naturalness and organicity worthy of note. There is a note of warmth that makes the voices even more velvety, lush, and realistic. It is the kind of set that amazes for the quality of the coherent and not at all recessed mids. Mids that are always very composed and elegant without peaks or harshness. Even if very controlled, the presence of sparks and air is guaranteed.Treble
Unlike the Simgots that could seem very bright and not always easy to listen to (especially the EA500), Dunu has managed to balance the set on the neutrality of the treble, finding the perfect blend. There is no sibilance or harshness that could bore you in long listening sessions or on certain musical genres. The extension remains excellent, with excellent presence of macro and micro details (which could be slightly more). If you are sensitive to treble, this set should be among the brightest on the safe side.Soundstage and Imaging:
The soundstage is not the widest I have heard in this price range but with the help of the DUNU S&S, I don’t feel any particular shortcomings; in fact, although it is intimate, it is well finished with a very clear image but with slightly rounded edges. Being all around, the sound is also vaguely round. This does not mean that it behaves badly; in fact, it works very well with a truly wide variety of genres. What gives the most sensation of depth is definitely the sub-bass. As for the layering, I find it very good; also, the directionality and separation of the sounds are of a good level.Comparison:
The single DD market is very competitive, but Dunu already has an advantage in terms of standard equipment. They have no rivals in terms of packaging.vs Simgot EA500LM
My thought is that this could be a valid alternative to the Simgot EA500LM and a possible upgrade for the EA500. Obviously, as an owner of the EA500LM, I can tell you with certainty that these are two rivals and the choice is very difficult. The difference is only in the bass and sub-bass part that has a more marked presence on the EA500LM but the rest is almost very similar; I would not be surprised if they shared the same driver.
The highs have that little extra boost that makes them crisper and a little more sparkly.
Apart from the bass being much fuller and more satisfying, the choice then all depends on your tastes. In the Dunu Kima 2, the mids are able to express themselves better but this does not mean that the EA500LM are inferior. I would not buy both, as the difference is minimal. Dunu boasts a much superior set of accessories.
vs Simgot EA1000 Fermat
I am still waiting for a single-driver IEM as capable as the purple dome driver of the EA1000. Obviously, if your budget allows it, I recommend you directly aim for them. The representation is superior, as is the presence of various macro and micro details. They are not comparable to each other.
Conclusion:
My thought is that this could be a valid alternative to the Simgot EA500LM and a possible upgrade for what concerns the EA500. Obviously, as an owner of the EA500LM, I can tell you with certainty that these are two rivals and the choice is very difficult.
The Dunu Kima 2 maintains a very fluid tuning that is well suited to a wide audience in a certain sense. I would say that I could do longer listening sessions with them rather than with the Simgot EA500LM. I had never tried a DUNU IEM and I was positively surprised; perhaps I could only recommend working on the ergonomics of the IEM to make it more adaptable. For the rest, nothing to say; the packaging is one of the best seen so far and also, as regards the accessories, there are truly many. The asking price seems very fair to me considering that you have everything. As for the sound, as mentioned in the comparisons, I would not recommend them to those who already own the Simgot EA500LM but to those who are looking at this model to buy it.
My feeling is that the DUNU has an even superior tuning balance, creating a mix so fluid that it is extremely pleasant.
This is an excellent alternative.
More information (no affiliations):
DUNU Kima2 DLC Composite Diaphragm Dynamic Driver IEM
DUNU as an audio company has a very strong reputation in the audio community and is one of the oldest and considered pioneers in the portable audio industry in China. As you read some of my previous reviews on DUNU products, I always stated that their FALCON C was one of the first initial stage midrange set that I have encounter them in which I really cherish that moment and also their particular model, the SA6 Regular which has an all balanced armature driver configuration that leaves me a long impression that it is one of the most finely-tuned sets in the midrange audio market.
The set that will be the star of this product review is the successor of their well-received entry-level single driver IEM, The DUNU KIMA, and what we have got right now is the DUNU KIMA 2. Like its predecessor, it still retains the design structure of its shell and a single driver configuration but on its internal components and some of its included accessories, DUNU did some an improvement of its driver technology and introduced some new features that the previous model does not have before.
The DUNU KIMA 2 outfitted with a dynamic driver in which DUNU claimed that it is a newer type of a dynamic driver technology which is somewhat of a derivative of their Eclipse tech which is a staple driver on their flagship models like LUNA, ZEN, FALCON PRO and FALCON ULTRA. The dynamic driver has a dual-cavity structure with a strong magnetic circuit supported by high-grade neodymium magnet along with a DLC (Diamond-Like Coating) composite diaphragm that will deliver a cohesive, responsive and a well-balanced sound quality across the frequency range.
The driver was then encased in a CNC-milled stainless steel shell chassis which is quite compact to all ear sizes and it has a kidney-shaped outline on it. Its surface underwent an anodising and then sandblasting process to achieve that matte-like scratch-resistant finish. Like the KIMA, it still utilises a 0.78mm bi-pin connector as its interlocking mechanism which I think is more stable and sturdy as the attaching and detaching process on its removable stock cable to an earpiece will be much easier and less complex to do.
With the ergonomic design of its kidney shaped profile, The KIMA 2 offers a comfortable fitting and comfort within my lugholes without any discomfort that will affect our listening session. Depending on the ear tips that you will be pairing it on this set, the DUNU SnS is the best option in my opinion to give the best passive noise isolation to block some unwanted noises from the outside surroundings.
DUNU furnishes a high quality stock cable on the KIMA 2, and this particular cable model was marketed as DUNU Lyre Mini and this one can be purchased separately as this one might be a good choice of upgrading some IEM’s stock cable either of less quality or need for replacement. The cable has multi-strand high purity OCC copper Litz wires that were organised into 4-cores and sheathed with a gray-coloured nylon-fabric insulator. This cable also features a modular plug in which you can swap it with different types of interchangeable terminal plugs according to its usage for different analogue audio output, either a 3.5mm single-ended or a 4.4mm balanced output via DUNU’s Q-lock mechanism. In my daily usage, I don't encounter any issues like distortion or microphonic effects that might affect the clean audio transmission signal from source to transducers.
When it comes to product packaging, since this is a DUNU set and as we all know that DUNU is quite generous when it comes to quantifying the amount of accessories. And as we expected, the KIMA 2 is full-packed with inclusions that we can use aside from the earpieces and cable. The contents were packed in a medium-size packaging box with some illustrations of the product’s mascot and some information like specs and company addresses.
These are the following contents you can find inside of its packaging box:
- Pair of KIMA 2 IEM transducers
- DUNU Lyre Mini modular cable
- Hardened fabric canvas carrying case
- 3.5mm termination plug adaptor
- 4.4mm termination plug adaptor
- Three (3) narrow-bored silicone ear tips in different standard sizes.
- Three (3) balanced-bored silicone ear tips in different standard sizes.
- Three (3) Candy silicone ear tips in different standard sizes.
- Three (3) SnS ear tips in different standard sizes.
- Small IEM mesh bags
- A mascot’s PVC standee
- Paperwork like instruction manuals, Q.C. card and warranty card.
The KIMA 2 is relatively an easy to drive set that could be paired to any device even with a power output that usually ranges within a normal gain mode like most smartphones, dongle adapters, laptops and PCs. On an optimal and desirable listening level, this IEM is able to deliver a dynamic and a full range sound as it encompasses across the audio frequency spectrum.
As for its tonal signature, the KIMA 2 has a mild U-shaped sound profile as it has some balanced and a sort of a neutral tonality as it has some slight elevation on the low frequency and just a bit accentuated upper mids to the presence part of the high frequency section. And also, as I clearly remembered the first KIMA appears to have a similar tuning profile but there are some different emphasis on each frequency section good thing that I still have it in my possession.
LOWS/BASS:
This is what makes the difference between the previous KIMA and this latest incarnation that this one has a more mid bass texture emphasis that makes bass sound quality a bit more potent but still not on a bass head’s quality level of authoritative and vigorousness. It doesn't mean that it has a quick instantaneous decrease of its sub bass presence as I still felt the rumble and reverberations coming from these instruments with the likes of synthesisers, drum machines and low-tuned bass guitars and also, double-basses.
The mid bass texture appears to be sufficient that it was able to give a satisfying note weight on some selected bass-clef instruments and deep male vocals. Bass guitars have these sustaining and rasping sound while double-basses have a bit of a broad and resonant sound on every pluck and bowing and then, bass kick drums have a thudding and sonorous sound on every stroke of its drum head. As for male voices, both bass and bass-baritone vocals have that deep and resonating tone but it still sort of inadequate dark timbre and fullness as they sound a bit velvety.
MIDRANGE:
While the midrange of this one is slightly notched on its overall frequency range presentation, it still presents a well-balanced, a bit linear and transparent with some trace of warmth on it. With this kind of tuning, it makes the midrange sound more favourable towards female vocals and string instruments.
The male vocals, depending on the vocal types, they sound natural and adequately lush as the baritones have a smooth, mild and velvety sound in them although there some types of baritone vocals that needs that rich and warm tone like kavalierbariton, verdi, dramatic and noble baritone in which they should sound steely, copious and bold in which this set just enough to deliver it, tenors seems to have the clear and ringing sound with sufficient power which makes this one fare well to all types of tenor, and countertenors have smooth, tender and emotive vocal quality. When it comes to female vocals, contraltos have less rich and less plush on their chesty vocals as they sound less husky but still retains that smoky characteristics, mezzo-sopranos have these velvety and expressive sound with a round and rich tone on them, and the sopranos have silvery and creamy sound which make them more versatility to almost all subtypes of this particular vocal although on the coloratura one, you might look for more shining factor.
On how the instruments sound on this one, they really have an almost accurate tonal colour which is probably its strongest asset that makes this set more appealing to audio enthusiasts who want a natural tonality. The string instruments with the likes of guitars, violins and cellos, the guitars have a crisp and balanced sound from every strumming and plucking on their strings, violins sound sweet and clear sound on every gripping on its bowstrings, and the cellos have that sensuous, stately and cantabile sound. On woodwinds, concert flutes have the poetic and graceful sound while the piccolos sound lighter and delicate, clarinets have round and melodic sound on them, and saxophones sound sonorous and hollow. As for brass instruments, trumpets sound stately with some brilliance while the trombones have solid and round sound, and then the horns sound ponderous, sonorous and in some cases, sombre.
The pianos have a well-balanced tone as it has a sweet, rich and vibrant sound that makes them pleasant to listen to on every key note that the hammer and strings produce.
HIGHS/TREBLE:
It has that brilliance but not the type that will be too sharp nor piercing and it has that smoothness but not to be too dark sounding, that is how I described the treble quality of the KIMA 2 which differentiates itself from the previous KIMA. Satiny is the best description that I could tell of its treble response as it sounds well-balanced, smooth and with just enough gleam as it has some slight accentuation and then a gradual attenuation between the upper-mids and presence section. The slight prominent on those treble sections will be enough to feature some clarity and definition on vocals and attack notation on instruments without sounding too sharp, shrill or piercing.
The quality of the brilliance section of this one is rather modest with just the right amount of intensity of its sparkle. Cymbals have these undulating and lustrous sound, hi-hats have that shortened buzzing tone of its distinctive chick-y sound, celestas sound sweet and ethereal and glockenspiel have that bell-like sound on either in a keyboard format or mallet-type one.
SOUNDSTAGE, IMAGING AND OTHER TECHNICALITIES:
The technical performance of this one is somehow fairly decent but if I will compare to its predecessor, at least it has some slight improvements, particularly on the stereo imaging aspect. It has perceivable average to above-average sound field dimensions within my head room as it has a rather middling width on its lateral span, acceptable height reach and a reasonable depth from front-to-reach on its sonic spatiality. Stereo imaging on this one presents a two-dimensional stereo presentation in a linear manner but it has a better than average layering and separation but still a capped one due to the limitation of driver technology as there some instances its struggles a bit on multi-instrumental tracks from the genres like jazz and philharmonic orchestral recording.
As for its driver coherency, it has a pretty responsive dynamic driver as it was able to execute a fast transient speed for bass response and clean and clear midrange and treble without any distortion at all. Resolution capability of this one somehow above the norm as the quality of the macro-dynamics and micro-detail retrieval of this one seems contrasting as it has a solid and responsive changes on highlighting dynamics of varying volume degree on instrumental passage and choral lines on the former, and a less sharper definition on extracting finer details, nuances and subtleties from an audio tracks like vocals ends, instrumental reverb tails and spatial audio effects on the latter aspect, in which defines the overall dynamic processing like limiters, compressors and expanders of an audio track’s production quality.
PEER COMPARISONS:
DUNU KIMA
- The predecessor of this model and the first one of the KIMA series, it shares a similar build design and driver implementation to its successor model.
- It uses a bit older dynamic driver technology as it also has a DLC-coated diaphragm on it then it was encased in a metal alloy shell.
- This one is well-packed with accessories like more choices of ear tips but unlike the KIMA 2, its stock cable doesn't have a modular termination plug feature.
- The KIMA also has a U-shaped sound profile but it has more sub bass presence on its overall bass response, a bit leaner and a tad energetic midrange and a lustrous treble response but its brilliance air is rather meagre.
- On its overall technical performance, it has similar performance with the KIMA 2, but it has less define layering and separation with less resolving resolution capability.
LETSHUOER D13
- LETSHUOER's single driver IEM was released in 2022. And like the Kima 2, it also has a metal shell but in a different shape.
- It also uses a larger dynamic driver with a DLC diaphragm and it was enclosed in a circular shaped aluminium alloy shell.
- The product packaging of this one is fairly packed with a quantifying amount of accessories but the cable isn't a modular one.
- Since this one has a detachable tuning filter nozzles in which this set offers two tuning profiles, a warm V-shaped which has strong bass emphasis and a bright V-shaped which more focused on highlighting the crispness and bright tonality of its treble responses while attenuates the bass quality.
- Regarding its technical capabilities, it has an average head stage, less refined layering and separation of its two-dimensional stereo imaging presentation and less resolving.
MOONDROP ARIA (DEMO)
- One of the MOONDROP's well-known product in the audio market and like the KIMA 2, it has a single driver set-up and it also has metal alloy shell.
- It uses a dynamic driver with LCP diaphragm and then it was housed in a metal alloy shell.
- Since I only tested this one for a few minutes, I don't have any idea of its inclusions inside of its packaging box but according to some reviews, it has only one type of eartips, a carrying case, some extra nozzle filters and a tweezer.
- The tonal profile of this one is U-shaped in which aligns with Harman-ish tuning, rumbly but a bit hollowed bass response, lean, recessed and energetic midrange and a tad bright but less airy treble response.
- The technical performance of this one is rather less impressive in my opinion from soundstage size up to less resolving on its resolution capabilities.
T-FORCE/TANGZU YUAN LI
- TANGZU's inaugural IEM model and again, like the KIMA 2, it has a single driver configuration and a metal shell chassis.
- It's another set that also utilises the dynamic driver with DLC diaphragm enclosed in a mirror-finished aluminium alloy shell.
- This set is also jam-packed with quantifying amount of accessories but again, its stock cable doesn't have a modular termination plug feature.
- It has a U-shaped sound as it has rumbly and punchy bass response, a well-balanced, clean midrange and with a sufficiently bright but less airy treble response.
- The technical performance of this one is quite good for single DD which is quite similar with KIMA 2 but it is a bit better when it comes to resolution capability as this one is quite resolving and highlighting more micro-details.
To sum up my assessment on this one, the DUNU KIMA 2 indeed has a noticeable refinement as DUNU takes some feedback from audio enthusiasts regarding the previous KIMA tonal performance in which part of the audio frequency section that they want to improve in which they are able to deliver it while retaining a natural and pleasant tonal profile. But there are some questions on why I should recommend the KIMA 2 to other fellow audio enthusiasts? first was it's the tonality itself on how it was tuned well-balanced yet musical and with some organic timbre on them that it proves the tuning prowess of DUNU's well-experienced audio engineers, second one is this product is pretty well-packed with accessories especial many choices of ear tips to choose from and a modular termination feature in its stock cable which is also a high quality, last but not the least, the build quality itself as DUNU products are known for its exceptional solid construction of their units.
DUNU KIMA 2 is now available on HIFIGO, I just provided a non-affiliated link below after this statement.
LINK:
https://hifigo.com/products/dunu-kima2
Interested in other DUNU products? Check out my previous reviews of their previous products.
■ DUNU KIMA
■ DUNU SA6 MK.II
■ DUNU FALCON ULTRA
SPECIFICATION:
MODEL: DUNU KIMA
IMPEDANCE: 20Ω
SENSITIVITY: 108dB
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 5Hz – 40KHz
CABLE LENGTH: 1.2M
PIN TYPE: 2-PIN CONNECTOR (0.78MM)
PLUG TYPE: (MODULAR) 3.5mm, 4.4mm
DRIVER UNIT(S): (1) DYNAMIC DRIVER
Tracks Tested: ( * = 16-bit FLAC, ** = 24-bit FLAC, *'* = MQA, '*' = DSD, *'= .WAV)
Alison Krauss -When You Say Nothing At All *
Jade Wiedlin - Blue Kiss**
Led Zeppelin - When The Levee Breaks **
Mountain - Mississippi Queen *
Queen - Killer Queen **
Guns N' Roses - Patience *'*
Eric Clapton - Tears in Heaven '*'
Sergio Mendes- Never Gonna Let You Go '*'
Pearl Jam - Daughter **
Roselia - Hidamari Rhodonite *
Assassin - Fight (To Stop The Tyranny)*
Celtic Frost- Visual Aggression *
New Order - Blue Monday *
The Corrs- What Can I do (unplugged version) *
Jimi Hendrix Experience - Voodoo Child *
The Madness- Buggy Trousers *
Metallica - Motorbreath **
Mariah Carey- Always Be My Baby *
Destiny's Child - Say My Name *
Malice Mizer- Au Revoir *
Mozart - Lacrimosa *
New York Philharmonic Orchestra - Dvorak- Symphony 9 " From the New World." *
Eva Cassidy - Fields of Gold (Sting cover)*
Michael Jackson - Give In To Me *
Exciter - Violence and Force *
Diana Krall - Stop This World **
Debbie Gibson - Foolish Beat *'*
The Sisters of Mercy – Lucretia My Reflection**
Suzanne Vega – Luka **
Lauren Christy – Steep *
Ottoman Mehter - Hucum Marsi *
P.S.
I am not affiliated to DUNU nor receive monetary incentives and financial gains as they provide me a review unit for an exchange of factual and sincere feedback from yours truly.
Once again, I would like send my gratitude to Mr. Kerwin Wu and Hermine Qiu of HIFIGO and also to @DUNU-Topsound for providing this review unit. I truly appreciate their generosity and trust towards me and other reviewers.
Disclaimer
Price(MSRP)
Ear tips
Drivability
Packaging
(Picture from official HiFiGo site)
Build Quality
Bass
Midrange
Treble
Technicalities/Others
Conclusion
Thanks for reading!
- Huge thanks to HiFiGo for providing the opportunity for me to review the Dunu Kima 2 by providing a sample. I really do appreciate it. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own, and are not influenced in any way.
- Please take this review with only a grain of salt, as everyone's hearing, fit, and gears may differ, so our experience may be different.
Price(MSRP)
- $119.99
Ear tips
- Dunu S&S
Drivability
- Easy to drive.
- Any decent, modern dongle DAC/Amp should be more than sufficient.
Packaging
- Dunu Kima 2
- Ear tips
- 3 pairs of generic silicone wide bore ear tips
- 3 pairs of generic silicone narrow bore ear tips
- 3 pairs of Dunu S&S ear tips
- 3 pairs of Dunu Candy ear tips
- Carrying Case
- Classic Dunu carrying case, one of the best carrying case out there but it may be too big for some.
- Four-Core Monocrystalline Copper and Silver-Plated Monocrystalline Copper Hybrid Cable
- Not a huge fan of this type of cable due to rubber part being tangled very easily.
- Other than that, not much to complain, excellent cable quality especially for a product in this price range, even comes with interchangeable terminations
- Not a huge fan of this type of cable due to rubber part being tangled very easily.
(Picture from official HiFiGo site)
Build Quality
- Metal build, very solid and sturdy.
- Fit is generally fine for me, but it isn't the most comfortable one in the world, at least it doesn't cause any discomfort or pain.
- Warm neutral, or very slight V shaped.
Bass
- Very balanced with a slight mid-bass emphasis.
- Rumble is present but not the highlight.
- Perfect balance of slam, weight, speed, and control.
- Tight and impactful, with a very natural decay without being too fast.
Midrange
- Lower Midrange
- On the warmer side, with good weight and body
- Male vocals especially sounds quite natural and well bodied, without being overly bloated or muddy at all.
- On the warmer side, with good weight and body
- Upper Midrange
- Perfectly forward and lively, never too shouty.
- Female vocals still pop out from the mix and are highlighted a bit more.
- Doesn't sound shrilly at all due to the extra warmth from lower midrange.
- Perfectly forward and lively, never too shouty.
Treble
- Neutral to my ears, but might lean towards darker or relaxed for some listeners.
- Exceptionally smooth for a single DD IEM.
- Decently extended and airy without being splashy at all.
Technicalities/Others
- Decent detail retrieval, not outstanding but not bad at all.
- Slightly wide soundstage but not really deep.
- Imaging is more on the 2D side than 3D but accuracy is quite decent.
- Decent separation, handles complex tracks quite well without too many issues.
- Timbre is incredibly natural, with very realistic vocal and instrumental presentation.
Conclusion
- Overall, I think that the Dunu Kima 2 is tuned extremely well especially as a single DD IEM in this price range.
- It has an amazing balance of basically everything, without any noticeable flaws (Had a hard time looking for cons), making it one of my most recommended single DD IEMs for under $250.
Thanks for reading!
Dunu Kima 2 Review
Check out full review HERE
Dunu Kima 2 Review
Intro
Hello, this review and feature covers the latest from the audio brand Dunu named the Dunu Kima 2. The Kima 2 follows a couple of its already well accomplished predecessors in their 2022 model, the Dunu Kima (Kima Review) as well as the Dunu Kima Classic (Kima Classic Review). I gotta say, I was, and still am, a fairly large fan of the series for their natural and very organic take on my music. Really a clean sound across the board on the Kima original, yet it was missing some weight in the low-end. It was missing some energy in the upper portions. Some would call it a very “blah” sounding set. I disagree, but that’s me. Dunu’s answer for that “meh” sound came in the form of the Kima Classic, which added some bite, some low-end oomph and simply a more fun sound. Both sets are very well tuned iems at the $100 price point. Both sets were pretty complete packages as well. However, there were still improvements which needed attention and Dunu set out to attend to those changes on this latest Kima 2.Dunu
Dunu Audio is one of those brands which effectively releases a product, and the entire hobbyist community collectively turns to see what it is. Really a very well-respected name in the hobby. Dunu is not one of those brands seeking their next buck. You can tell there is passion involved in their products by the fact that they only release a product when the proper amount of R&D has been accomplished and when that product is ready. This is an important point that I hope doesn’t get overlooked. So many brands spit out products like they are on an assembly line anymore. Dunu puts the tough work in, to craft and create products that they can be proud of as well as products that the hobbyist community will ultimately enjoy. Not many brands have crafted as many legendary type sets as Dunu. The Zen series, the Falcon series, the SA6 series, the Kima series, and on, and on, and on. The point being, Dunu takes their work seriously, with a ton of expertise on hand. Just so you know the pedigree of the Kima series.Will it hold up?
I suppose the last thing I need to find out is how well does the Kima 2 hold up against not just those iems in its same series, but also against all of those iems within its price point. That’s the real question after all. We only care about getting the best we can for our dollar. Let’s face it, there truly is a mountain of solid iems vying for your money. The hobby has gotten so convoluted of late, a new set every week promising to revolutionize your listening experience. Coincidentally, the $100 price point just so happens to be the most hotly fought-over, sought-after, and is one of the most viciously contested price points within the hobby. Really, I’d say the range begins at $75 to about $150. In that range you’ll see brands pulling some major breakthroughs. This price point is the 1st steppingstone for hobbyists. Getting past that $100 barrier. Iems get better made, better accessorized, and actual R&D is committed to these iems which mostly results in better drivers, cavities, etc. along with better tech, which may lead to better tuning and ultimately, if they’ve done their homework… better sound. I won’t bore you (as I have in the past) and go through all of the sets which fight over dominance of this price point. But I will say that the Kima 2 has to be good. It has to bring something to the table folks that isn’t regurgitated for the hundredth time.Weeding through the hype…
My Pops told me that no matter where you are, whatever venture you go into, the cream will always rise to the top. As many hype trains that exist in this audio game, it’s true that the hobby has a way of weeding through the initial hype and only the most valued, most unique, and most worthy iems stand the test. Those are the sets we talk about six months after release. I am very curious if Dunu has built upon the Kima series, to be what it was always supposed to be. One of the best. With that, the Dunu Kima 2 everyone…Non-Affiliated Purchasing Links:
–Hifigo–Amazon (HiFiGo)
Gear used for testing
–Ifi Go Blu–EPZ TP50
–EPZ TP35
–Aful SnowyNight
–Shanling H0
–Fiio Q15
–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2
–Shanling M6 Ultra
Packaging / Accessories
Unboxing
The Dunu Kima 2 arrived at my home in a medium sized square box. The artwork is the first thing you’ll notice. A gorgeous anime artistic rendering of a young girl, reading a book? With doves flying around? I don’t know what this graphic is supposed to mean, but it’s a very imaginative picture with some great colors. Anyways, that’s on the sleeve to the box. Take off the sleeve and you’ll see a regular black box with “Dunu” imprinted in the center. Take off the lid and you’ll see the “anime stand”? Of sorts. Some sort of anime decoration for a desk or something? I don’t know folks. Anyways, under that you’ll see the Kima 2 sitting comfortably in foam cut-outs. Take off that layer and underneath you’ll see the carrying case. Open the case and inside is the cable, the multitude of eartips, a 3.5-6.35mm adapter, a small cloth bag, as well as the 3.5 and the 4.4 modular adapters. You’ll also notice an iem cleaning tool & a cable clip. Really a full package from Dunu once again. One thing that Dunu never seems to skimp on is the packaging and accessories.
Eartips
Now, Dunu provides a ton of eartips. That’s 13 pairs of eartips in total across four differ rent styles of tips. I have to salute Dunu as all of the eartips provided are actually quite good tips. Let’s start with three pairs (S, M, L) of black silicone “Vocal Enhancement” eartips with a blue rigid stem and a narrow bore. The next tips are also a black/dark gray silicone “Atmospheric” eartips with a red stem which come in three pairs (S, M, L) and also have a narrow bore. Next are the awesome Dunu’s Candy Tips. They provide three pairs (S, M, L) and also come with a narrower bore. I love the Candy Tips with thier flexible flange and stem. Lastly, Dunu puts into the package four pairs (S, M, L, XL) of Dunu S&S eartips. The S&S tips have a wider bore and are certainly some fantastic tips to have around. You never know when you’ll need them. However, I chose to actually go with the Dunu large sized candy tips. They fit like a glove, nice and rigid enough flange and they seal wonderfully for me. Thankfully, Dunu quite literally provides a mountain of tips, and each is different in how they present the sound. Really great package folks. Each of the types of tips provided are solid tips which can be used at some point, with some set. Great for a collection.
Carrying Case
Now, the carrying case that Dunu adds into the package is actually great. Really a gorgeous case. It’s a large white fabric hard case with a working zipper that’s very chic, stylish, and altogether just a classy inclusion for $100. Please trust me, you don’t usually see a case as nice as this one. On the top of the case, you’ll notice “DUNU” Indented directly in the center of it. Again, stylish, classy. I’d say the case is plenty large enough for your earphones, cable, adapters, eartips, and possibly a small dongle dac. Great for throwing into a bag. Not so great for putting into a pocket. Unless you want to look like you are happy to see… everyone. Sorry, I had to. Anyways, the case is a great inclusion folks. Dunu does nothing cheaply and always seeks to impress. Nice work in that one Dunu.
Cable
This brings us to the cable. Folks, no set of earphones is complete without a solid cable. However, that cable NEEDS to nail three features and functions. Any cable needs to look nice aesthetically. It has to look nice folks. C’mon! Next, the cable has to be made of materials which play well “sonically” with the earphones provided. Lastly, it’s always better when the cable is not impossible to roll up without blowing apart. Okay, fitment means something too, of course that may be different for everyone. However, those are the main attributes needed in my mind. Thankfully the Dunu Lyre Mini modular cable provided is a gorgeous gray wire with a nylon fabric insulation. To be exact, it’s a 2-pin, four-core monocrystalline copper and silver-plated monocrystalline copper cable which comes equipped with a 3.5 single ended as well as 4.4 balanced Q-Lock adapters. Basically, the adapters get lined-up and pushed on while a metal threaded fitting threads onto the cable holding it securely. I’d say it’s one of the better implementations of modular adapters. Especially at this price. Also, I feel that the cable does the Kima 2 justice sonically. I tried a silver cable, please don’t do that. Learn from me. I tried a fully copper cable too, which almost dulled the midrange. Honestly, the included cable sounded awesome from all of these other cables that I have on hand to try. What I’m trying to say is; fantastic job Dunu! You provided us a cable which actually makes sense paired with the Kima 2.
Build / Design / Internals / Fit
Build Quality
This will be short because it is so very apparent that the Kima 2 is built magnificently. Friends, I feel that one of the best materials that exists to use for an earphone shell is stainless steel. Well, that is exactly what Dunu used for the Shells on the Kima 2. Of course, the Kima 2 is a hair heavier at 10.2 grams. As they should be. That said, 10 grams is hardly heavy. As far as size, the Kima 2 is about average sized, not too big and not small. The shells are cut in a way that hugs the ear nicely, a very cool shape which is functional and nice to look at. So, the shells are actually sandblasted to leave a semi-faded surface finished off with a dull polish that really looks nice. In fact, the shape of the faceplates is actually crafted to create shadows. You’ll notice two vents, one on the back cavity and one on the front. The nozzles are plated in what appears to be brass. Just a gorgeous contrast. The nozzles are right around 6mm (give or take) and actually fit somewhat deeply. At least in my ears they do. The fit is wonderful, but I’ll cover that later. At any rate, the build is top class, top shelf, and premium, any way you turn them.
Design
Let’s talk about the design language of the Dunu Kima 2. To be totally honest, not much has changed from the Kima original or the Kima Classic. You still have the “K” across the faceplates. Yes, the same “K” which was crafted to create intricate shadows bringing upon a 3D element into the design. The all-silver semi-polished look is without question one of the best designs in the price point. Add to that the brass or gold-plated nozzle and you have yourself one of the best designed earphones that $100 can buy. It’s no wonder Dunu decided not to change the design up too much. Why would they change a good thing? I personally loved the design of both the OG Kima and the Classic, so it’s no surprise that I equally enjoy the Kima 2’s design language. For what it’s worth, Dunu is also seeing their limited-edition Kima 2 which comes in a crazy beautiful high polish green. The Limited Edition is limited to #999 units, so act fast on that one. As for me, I like the Kima 2 as it is. I love the semi-polish silver stainless steel. It is such a nice design. Well, done, once again Dunu.Internals
The Dunu Kima 2 is a single dynamic driver earphone which consists of one “New-Generation” 10mm diamond-like-carbon (DLC) composite dome diaphragm driver with what Dunu states has a different material for the suspension. Dunu also states that the deposition process of coating the driver with the DLC compound is much better now. They say there is less gaps, less surface defects too. This can only improve the sound at the end of the day. Beyond the drivers, Dunu decided to use the same high-power magnetic architecture as was used in the very popular Dunu Falcon Ultra. It appears that Dunu really wanted this set to sound amazing for the cost and seemed to spare no expense in making sure that was the end result.Fit / Comfort
Now fit and comfort is completely subjective and a very personal thing to speak on. Like, I have zero idea if the Kima 2 will or won’t fit your ears. All I can say is that the Kima 2 fit me very well. Once I got the tips which worked for me, that is. It did take long though as any of the tips provided in the packaging worked like a charm. The Co fort is great, you don’t even feel the 10-gram shells in your ears as the weight is dispersed very well. Honestly, to me the Kima 2 is a homerun from a fit standpoint. That’s me though. How they will fit you is anyone’s guess.
Drivability / Pairings
Output Power
The Dunu Kima 2 is rated with an impedance of right around 20 ohms and a sensitivity of about 108 db/mw (@1kHz). What this translates to is that the Kima 2 is a very sensitive iem which can run well off of lower powered sources. Even on a simple smartphone, iPad, cheap Amazon 3.5 dongles, really any low powered source the Kima 2 was able to get to good volume with plenty of headroom. That said, I feel that some more raw power does help to bring the Kima 2 to its pinnacle sound fidelity. I’m not talking about a million watts either. Let’s put it this way, high gain on the EPZ TP50 was wonderful. I’m sure low gain would be just fine too. But who likes low gain? Yuck. Anyways, without a doubt the mix tightens up, adds more vibrance, slightly more sculpted bass region, better extended upper treble with more body to that region. Of course, I should also add that my higher-powered sources are also my most talented sources. So, how much of that improvement comes from simply using a better source, or more power. I think it’s a mix of both. Still, more raw power certainly helps the Kima 2 scale nicely. Still, in the end you really should strive to get a decent Dongle Dac. Something with some juice helps.Source Pairing
Now we get to one of the most subjective sections in audio. That is “source pairing”. So many reviewers will swear that this set needs this source, or that source. They will say that synergy happens with this, or that. Insert eye-roll emoji. Friends, “synergy” is a made-up word that is supposed to direct the reader or listener to the perfect pairing based on tonality and other features. While synergy has its place, it is not an across the board understanding. I mean, “synergy” really just means; “it sounds good to me”. It’s subjective folks. Person to person can change. So, as far as the synergy that I heard with the Kima 2. In truth, it’s an almost dead neutral iem. Perhaps warm/neutral. Friends, this basically means that almost any source can play them just fine. Be it warmer, warm/neutral, neutral, bright/neutral, rolled off…whatever, the Kima 2 will sound good. Now, does this mean that you will enjoy all of these different source tonality pairings with the Kima 2? No that definitely doesn’t mean that. It’s personal, subjective, person-to-person may feel differently. For me, I like anything from warm to a neutral source. The Kima 2 is so clean that it can cooperate with most any source pairing and sound great. That’s why neutral iems are so nice. Of course everything has its downsides, but for a dead neutral iem, usually tonality pairing is not one of them.
What do you need?
You only really need something with at least a 3.5 single ended port to plug the Kima 2 into. However, to get the most out of this beautiful iem I would certainly suggest that you try to get a decently powerful dongle dac. 150mW at 32ohms is more than enough, which is basically any and all dongle dacs above $40. In fact, most dongle dacs will provide twice that anymore. At any rate, get a decent dongle dac, that you enjoy the sound and performance of, and you should be good to go. Who knows though, you may like something a hair warmer, or cooler. It’s a process folks.
Sound Impressions
*Note: I want to preface this section with a few things. First, I gave the Kima 2 about five days of burn-in playing loops of white noise, pink noise, tones & sweeps, and different tunes specifically meant to settle the driver in certain areas. Did this help? Honestly, I have no idea. I really didn’t pay enough attention early on to tell a difference and nothing stood out to me that needed changing when I 1st listened. So, I don’t know if it helped, but I definitely performed it. I listen almost entirely to flac or better files stored on my many devices. Also, I listen mainly to the UAPP (USB Audio Player Pro) music player as well as Hiby Music Player and Poweramp from time to time. Each music player has its own strengths, and I use them all.
Neutral / Natural
The Dunu Kima 2 comes across very close to dead neutral to my ears, maybe warm/neutral too. I wouldn’t argue about either. I absolutely adore what Dunu was able to accomplish with this set, for the cost. Without a doubt in my mind the Kima 2 is most definitely an upgrade from the previous iterations of the Kima series. Granted, those were nice sets, but the Kima 2 has more of a crispness on attack. More of a fundamental bite to notes whilst remaining harmoniously smooth across the board. This set is so clean, so tight, yet wonderfully balanced across the mix. Just an almost perfectly pleasant sound. Friends, I treasure the sound of the Fiio FD15 (FD15 Review) and I can barely tell a difference between the two sets. Okay, there is distinct subtle differences, but that’s beside the point. The point is, for $50 less the Kima 2 is a wonderfully fluid sounding iem with great natural note weight, natural in its transients, natural in its macro-dynamics, in its vibrance, and just about any other sound descriptor. Yes, the Kima 2 has its subtle subjective issues and of course it (along with every other iem) is not going to be everyone’s cup-o’-tea, but man is it a nice sounding set! Simply pleasant folks. I could listen all day long and never grow tired of it. In truth, Dunu could’ve asked for a whole lot more money in exchange for the Kima 2, and I wouldn’t have batted an eye. It’s a very nice sounding set.How does it sound?
Again, the Kima 2 is very close to neutral with a healthy bump up top, as well as a slight linear bass shelf in which ever-so-gently squeezes itself (in a very polite manner) into the midrange adding a very organic weight and richness to an otherwise very clean sound. I would call this a U-shaped sound signature. The bass hits fast, punchy, relatively deep but is mostly playing second fiddle to the midrange. Without question, the midrange is the bread and butter of the Kima 2. You have an excellent midrange for vocalists. Not too forward, not pushed back, very melodious, and tuneful all the way out. Just enough shimmer, sparkle, and vibrancy. Lastly the treble is almost perfectly balanced with the rest of the mix, to my ears anyways. A very nice, very smooth treble which comes with no real peaks, no sibilance, no odd timbre. Just a nice sounding treble. Detail retrieval is probably just above average, same with instrument separation, and imaging. Good, not great, but also, I wouldn’t change it even if I could. The stage is average, average width, average depth, average height. So no, the Kima 2 is not the picture of technical prowess. It won’t resolve the subtlest of subtleties. It will however sound like pure musicality in the most non-offensive form with an effortless ability to convey my music. Truly a diamond folks. If you didn’t know, it’s wise to pick up diamonds. Just sayin’.
Bass Region
The low-end of the Dunu Kima 2 is what I would refer to as natural. It’s realistic, authentic, organic to life. Yes, it can get reasonably deep in pitch and yes it has some guttural tendencies, but mostly it keeps a perfect balance against the mids and the treble. Nothing about the bass is overdone, or overcooked. So, with that said, the Kima 2 is obviously NOT for bassheads. The low-end is all about quality over quantity and it exemplifies this at all times. I hear a very nicely textured low-end with very nice note definition as well. I also hear a very tactile type of bass punch which provides a nice snap on attack for kick drums etc. No where in the bass do I hear anything remotely bloated, or muddy, and certainly nothing which promotes any sort of veil to the overall sound. Truly this is a very well thought out and nicely tuned bass region that has the ability to hit quickly, with a palpable punch, and a certain dexterity which enables the Kima 2 to sound very precise, with a natural note recovery. Perhaps less full in authority, but very agile, very clean, very natural to my ears.Sub-Bass
The sublevels of the low-end aren’t going to bring the bass-bois out of the woodwork. This is not the type of sub-bass that’ll rattle your eyeballs, tickle your nose hairs, or realign your brain stem. It thankfully is not anything like that. Again, quality over quantity, with another helping of quality. The sub-bass still has some haptic feel to bass notes when a track presents such a thing. Like the track I always use for my reviews, “Groove” by Ray Wylie Hubbard. It’s a cool fest of jazz infused rumble with an aggressive drone. Any set will sound at least marginally deep and guttural with this song. What I enjoy about the Kima 2 is how well it navigates that low aggressive drone while simultaneously replaying the rest of the mix as though there’s more than one driver. Another track just like that, by The Decemberists, called “Tell Me What’s on Your Mind” is another heavy rumble and bulbous style growl and drone. Once again, every set replays this song with at least a modicum of beastliness. Still, the Kima 2 is amazing once the drums kick in. Again, it’s like there’s more than one driver. The snap on attack of each drum hit comes through loud and clear while the thrumming deep buzz of the bassline creates the foundation of the track. Now, those are tracks which should sound guttural. I also noticed that even most bass guitars have a certain fullness and bite with enough resonant rumble to sound and feel authentic.Mid-Bass
I have gone back and forth against myself whether the mid-bass has the brunt of the emphasis down low. I would venture to say that it does, but the linearity of this bass shelf is wonderful folks. So, the mid-bass is less intense, not a ton of robust slam. I’m sure it’s enough for 90% of hobbyists, but it won’t make big bass lovers very happy. Though, I think we’ve established that. Once again, the quality of the bass region is what makes this low-end as special as it is. It’s fast enough to take in complicated bass passages yet has enough of a lingering resonance to sound realistic. It’s simply clean. Clean can mean a lot of things but the 1st things I think of are good definition, texture, good resolution, without a ton of residual harmonics, a glass-lined note outline, rather than plush or fuzzy. The mid-bass of the Kima 2 is all of those things. It may not satisfy everyone’s guilty pleasure style bass fantasies, but you can throw almost anything at it and the Kima 2 will perform. Listening to “Get Lucky” by Daft Punk and Pharrell Williams you’ll see right away that the Kima 2 can take on a speedy mid-bass yet at the same time easily separate the surrounding melodies like the strumming guitar, there’s nothing murky, nothing masked, just a clean sounding bass which does the song crazy-good justice rather than steal any clarity. Each bass note hits with some nice precision, it’s tidy, it has some real good density in its less bombastic boom. The cool thing is that the bass is elevated enough to sound meaty. Just a nice bass.Downsides to the Bass Region
Without a doubt the number one issue that most folks will have is the lack of a big authoritative boom or deep sublevel grumble. Not that it doesn’t present these things sufficiently, but just not enough to come across “big” and “deep” in the traditional bass lover sense. That’s it. What the low-end does really well is show up when it’s called upon. Let’s put it this way, I never hear anything which sounds or feels as though the Kima 2 “lacks”. I don’t get that folks. The low-end holds up its end of the agreement when it’s asked to. See, the bass is not the focus of this iem. I know we are inundated with iems that have a powerful low-end leaving other areas of the mix to slightly suffer. If anything, the Kima 2 could use some more sublevel emphasis. Maybe a touch. However, it would kill me to ruin the sound of this set for a hair more guttural growl. Ya know what… I take that back, don’t touch a thing, I like it just the way it is. Of course, I am not everyone else, and I’m sure that the Kima 2 will not suffice for many folks. It’s just the truth. I said the same thing in the Fiio FD15 Review. If you like natural, ridiculously clean, nicely layered, with some tactility and dense punch then you may love what the Kima 2 has to offer down low. Quality trumps quantity on this set every day of the week.
Midrange
The midrange is the bread-&-butter of the Dunu Kima 2. When I listen to this set all I can think of is how effortless the Kima 2 navigates any track in such a harmonious manner. Really a sweet sounding iem and its midrange is a huge reason for that. There’s no other way to look at the Kima 2. It’s a balanced iem, no one area of the mix steals the focus. However, the crown jewel of that balanced signature happens to be the midrange on the Kima 2. Tuned to be a hair closer, very naturally tuned. The midrange comes across as smooth in its note body, crisp at the edges (when needed) and very clear. Note weight sounds natural, not thin or frail sounding and not overly thick. These attributes set the stage wonderfully for vocalists and for instrumentation to sound open and full, realistic in their inflections, yet melodious at every turn. No color alters the sound one way or the other. See, the bass shelf is not heavily emphasized. In fact, I’d say it’s emphasized just enough. Yet that bass shelf doesn’t flatten out until almost 700hz, which is far into the midrange. I think the result is like I’ve been saying… it has a very realistic tuning. Natural voices, forward yet never boxy, rich yet never overly wide in presence. Just tight enough to decay in a way that cooperates with my natural understanding of what a “thing” actually sounds like. Be it, a vocalist, or be it violin, piano, acoustic guitar, etc. The macro cleanliness and neutrality are such that instruments come across uncolored and preserved allowing their natural sound to come across. If I haven’t said it yet, this is a breath of fresh air folks.
Macro Clarity
The truth is that the Kima 2’s midrange is actually fairly well detailed with a transparent sound, black background, as though all midrange notes have a spotlight pointed right at them. However, in the face of that spotlight, the Kima 2 has this persistent sound balance, which always keeps the sound (as a whole) anchored. Yes, the mids are fantastic, but the beauty of the Kima 2 is in that balance. It allows certain elements of the frequency to stand out where they otherwise may sound a little murkier on other sets. So, you won’t get top-class micro-details and fine-lined precision, what you will get is perfectly clean macro clarity coupled with effortless musicality. Truly a nice midrange folks.Lower-Midrange
Male vocals sound awesome. Flat-out, hands-down. In my opinion, males come with a very unsullied authority to their voices. Meaning, there is weight to the body of their notes, yet that weight isn’t the type which clouds, veils, or congests the image. There is a richness, some etched-out fullness that draws the male voice forward in an appropriate way. I’m telling you folks; the macro-cleanliness is very nice. For instance, Gary Lightbody in “This is How You Walk On” almost puts Gary’s voice on a pedestal against that rest of the mix. With the Kima 2 in ear, he sounds very distinct, almost engraved within the sound field and against the rest of the melody. Notes are sculpted well enough, but not clinical, they’re textured, but never dry. Now, I could see some folks wishing the Kima 2 had even more rich warmth. I could see that. Despite that, for those who enjoy a cleaner neutral approach that doesn’t skimp on note weight, those are the people the Kima 2 is for. Males, lower register females, and instrumentation all “generally” sound very nice for a $100 iem.Upper-Midrange
Now, the upper-mids have that nicely gradual pinna rise which peaks below the Harman Target. So already you can tell that the Kima 2 is not going to be as glare inducing as some of those Harman style bad boys. I actually find the upper mids to be the most enthralling frequency range, for me anyways. I like that the upper mids have more than enough sparkle, and shimmer to cap certain instruments, or female voices. To add to that, you still have that nice note body. Now it does thin out a hair in this region, but I’d still refer to the upper midrange as a very natural & neutral sound that’ll present the track as it is, for both instruments & voices too. Truly some of the best timbre that $100 can get you, in my opinion. Really a very gratifying sound. I hear a euphonic, crystalline, very lucid sounding upper portion of the mids combined with a certain buttery and full-bodied sound as well. It’s just wonderful folks. Also, I hear nothing fatiguing. You won’t get hit with any random peaks, no hidden jolts of glare. No sibilance (that is noteworthy) either. Pleasant is still the word which best describes the Kima 2 as a whole, and certainly pleasant describes the upper midrange.Upper-mids cont…
Now, females are truly set up to shine with the Kima 2. The upper-mids are more forward than the low-mids with subtle touches of extra energy that seems to mesh wonderfully for most female vocalists. Furthermore, the Kima 2 carries this soft glow of controlled vibrance which summits every note. Friends, just do yourself a favor and listen to Adele sing “Easy on Me (Live at the NRJ Awards, 2021)”. It’s a vocal masterpiece from the singer. The Kima 2 is the perfect vehicle to drive her sound. No sharp inflections in Adele’s voice get exaggerated, you hear nothing metallic (which can easily happen). However, what you will hear is that very clean, nicely bodied, and natural timbre softly layered with just the right amount of sparkle. Obviously, these are highly subjective words here, but I just feel that some things in this hobby are pretty much universal.Fluid/Smooth
Another singer is Sia who emotionally belts out “Nowhere to Be”. Folks, I adore how the Kima 2 can take abrasive voices, more like sharp little micro abrasions that a singer like Sia has cresting every note sung from her mouth. There’s an edge, and this edge can sound… well… edgy. You could say metallic but really, it’s simply not natural to the ear. Some sets will magnify and embellish these little moments. Not the Kima 2. The fluidity and smoothness of the Kima 2 comes across glass lined as it smooths, sands down, and gets the most out of Sia’s vocals in a very liquid way. If that makes sense to you. Not to mention piano, violin, percussion of all sorts, strings of all sorts too, along with every other instrument that I’ve heard played through the Kima 2. It’s the same story; full bodied, rounded, very clear, enough sparkle and shimmer to bring some slight bite and crispness while also sounding very resounding when needed.Downsides to the Midrange
Now, I don’t want to oversell this set, and I don’t want to make this some hype piece either. No question there have been plenty of iems which can perform in a similar fashion. Namely, the original Kima, the much less expensive HZsound Heart Mirror, the Aful MagicOne, and many others in the price point which can really carry vocals and instruments in a natural and timbre-first way. Do those sets put it all together like the Kima 2? Now that’s a question that deserves some attention. However, of course there are going to be those who simply don’t enjoy this vocal friendly sound. That should go without saying. Also, folks who really love a heavy warmth, an even juicier and richer sound or those who don’t enjoy neutrality will not be enamored with the Kima 2. Most definitely macro-dynamics are not the Kima 2’s calling card either. Yes, there’s energy, but it’s controlled, capped, and never does that energy serve as a sharp contrast sonically. Some may even call the Kima 2 “dull”. I wouldn’t be surprised to see that. Personally, I don’t feel that something which sounds so authentic to life could be “dull”, but also, I’m not you. Coincidentally, it’s you who I’m trying to help here. So no, the mids aren’t perfect. They could use some more hard-lined density, some more focused details, more separation of instrumentation etc. Still, at the end of the day Dunu did a wonderful job in tuning this set.
Treble Region
In a nutshell, the Kima 2’s treble region is fairly safe. Certainly, it has its moments of brilliance and shine, but the Kima 2’s treble is not going to “push the envelope” … so to speak. So, it isn’t an intense treble, or a very dynamic treble. I’d say it’s just brilliant enough and emphasized enough to add some luster to the overall sound. Also, the treble is lifted enough to balance the spectrum wonderfully as the treble is a huge reason for this overall neutral/natural sound. So, while the highs on the Kima 2 aren’t spit-fire, ultra-peppy, or heavily contrasted against the rest of the mix, they’re actually perfect for the Kima 2. I wouldn’t change a thing. Basically, treble heads won’t jump for joy as the Kima 2 will not be the $100 set they crown as “Prince of Treble”. Or those who desire some slight sharpness, some vivacity, or some hard-edged treble bite will likely want to keep looking. In my opinion, Dunu made sure to tune this set with a superlative tonal balance that not many sets priced around $100 are offering these days. Not quite like the Kima 2 anyways. However, to get that balance they did have to sacrifice some dynamic energy in this region. I’m okay with it.It’s a single DD…
Having said all of that, I still feel that detail retrieval up top is a plus, clarity is still a mainstay for this tuning as well. It is a very clean treble, smoother than crisp, decently extended, and this treble has enough vivid radiance to filter down to the midrange providing some snap on percussion, adding sparkle to the upper mids, enough edge to acoustic strings etc. So, while it may not be the picture of refulgent luminosity, it is not boring or dull and isn’t even close to rolled off or dark. No way. The Kima 2 has the perfect treble emphasis for the Kima 2 and carries enough resplendent candor to add some gloss to this region. Let’s put it that way. Again, details are nice, especially in a macro sense with some micro-details coming through as well. Probably above average in this area. Obviously, that is highly debatable, but I have almost no issues hearing most of the subtle stuff within my music. I’d say that you don’t have a ton of treble bite, with transient swiftness, precise note density, or perfectly contoured & rounded treble notes. There isn’t that haptic style treble that only certain drivers can obtain. This is a $100 iem and it is a single dynamic driver earphone. Just keep that in mind.Tonal balance trumps technical prowess
What you won’t hear is anything shreikingly sharp or too bright. I really don’t feel that many people are going to feel the Kima 2 has too much brilliance. Maybe for those who only enjoy a dark treble. Everyone else will likely find the Kima 2 right in their comfort zone. It’s an easy listen, non-offensive, nothing shrill to my ears and I don’t hear that tizzy upper treble splash with the secondary harmonics of a cymbal strike. Also, I don’t hear a ton of blending in this area either, except for heavily complicated treble music. On the flipside, for a more exact digital treble like the style of “Magnetic Fields, Pt. 1” by Jean Michel Jarre you will hear that precision, the rounded notes, the bite. That should be expected, even with loads of treble coming at you. The Kima 2 seems to handle that very well. Yet in more chaotic treble tracks with actual woodwind instruments, electric guitar, brass instruments, cello, clarinet, french horn, among others all mishmashing in the treble region as in “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Cold Play, there is some slight blending up top. Tonally the sound is beautiful, but I’d say some of the distinct note separation will leave those treble diehards wanting. So, while the sound is about as harmonious as you can get, it isn’t the most exact and probably isn’t the most polished treble region. Now, does any of that make even a slight difference to me or take away from my enjoyment? Absolutely not. This is certainly a time where I’d say that tonal-balance and good timbre trumps technical proficiency, with ease.Downsides to the Treble Region
I feel I’ve already covered this in the previous paragraphs. It really all comes down to subjective issues that “some” people “might” have. Again, not for treble heads. I think we’ve established that. Also, you have to keep in mind the price, the driver configuration too. It’s simply true that an under $100 single dynamic driver earphone is not going to replicate the treble region perfectly, with perfect precision, and isn’t going to sculpt every treble note in fine-lined accuracy. Some tracks will make what I just said a liar out of me, but I feel you all understand what I’m saying. Well, I hope you do.The truth is, I couldn’t say enough good things about the way Dunu crafted and tuned the treble to fit perfectly within the canvas that is the Kima 2. It just works. The tonality and timbre strike a wonderfully organic chord within my mind space when listening. I’ve said the same thing about a few other sets in this price point as well, so the Kima 2 is not something I haven’t heard before. However, it is a quality attribute of this set which shouldn’t go unspoken of or ignored. It’s a quality treble which may not be the picture-perfect model of a technical treble. I think I’ve beat this horse to death; you get the idea.
Technicalities
Soundstage
Beginning with the soundstage, I find the Kima 2 to give an average portrayal of the sound field. Thankfully you don’t have a small stage, or a congested stage and so that is a huge plus. It’s about average. Average width, decent height, but you have some decent depth of field, which is a plus. I do hear some nice layering of sound as well. However, all in all, the Kima 2’s soundstage is about average with other single DD sets around its cost. Now, this doesn’t mean the stage is not a benefit of this iem, because I do feel that the Kima 2 has a very well laid-out stage with a slightly more 3D aspect to it. It is perhaps a hair more intimate but there’s dimension to the sound.Separation / Imaging
Now, instrument separation is actually quite good if you ask me. I know I said it was roughly average in my review but in truth the Kima 2 does a nice job of separating elements of an imaginary stage. I’d say that the only issues arise in Ultra congested music, as one should expect. Really, the clarity is so nice on this set that it is able to separate instruments and voices in a nice way. Imaging is even better. I have zero issues placing instruments within the sound field. Never are there any floating images, muffled images, or anything of the sort. Left to right is solid, front to back is also better than expected. You’ll hear some decent layering of sounds which only helps the mental picture. I’d say that Dunu did a nice job here. Obviously, the Kima 2 is not tops in class and many sets will show off a better ability to separate elements and image those elements. Still, the Kima 2 is nice.Detail Retrieval
As far as detail retrieval is concerned, I’d say the Kima 2 is just above average. The macro clarity is too good, nice macro details, and yes, the subtle stuff can be picked up rather easily in the right tracks. It should go without saying that more congested music obviously will make it harder to dissect the minutiae. I can tell you that the Kima 2 is certainly not a detail beast, and it won’t be the envy of the audio world for its technical prowess, but I can’t sit here and call it bad either. Now, there’s no quantitative way to come up with this determination, but again, I’d say that the Kima 2 is probably just above the average set within its price point.
Comparisons
Dunu Kima Classic ($109)
I reviewed both of the previous iterations of the Dunu Kima series and the one which resonated with me the most (until the Kima 2) was the Kima Classic (Kima Classic Review). The Classic was crafted with an upgraded tuning from the OG Kima and was (in my opinion) an upgrade from the OG. Once again, the Kima Classic comes with a single 10mm DLC dynamic driver. You have an updated paint job on the Classic as well with a more coffee colored design. Very nice looking but beyond that, everything remained the same as far as build is concerned. The point of the Classic was to provide a more classical V-shaped tuning scheme. More bass impact, depth, more treble output etc. I’d say they accomplished their task because the Kima Classic is a nice sounding set.
Differences
Folks, the Kima Classic and Kima 2 are identical in all ways physically and aesthetically except for the color. Well, that and the Kima 2 has upgraded drivers and the 2-pin on the Kima 2 is more recessed. Beyond those things, these two are spot on identical. The vents are the same, writing on the faceplates is the same, same 3D looking “K”. Identical. Coincidentally, the price is also identical at right around $100 – $110. I think the similarities fade when you consider that the Kima 2 has a much better cable and more eartips. Both sets offer the same carrying case except they are different colors. Both give a solid unboxing experience for the cost. However, I would certainly say that the Kima 2 has the better unboxing.Sound Differences
As far as sound differences, the Kima Classic comes across a hair warmer, less neutral, more like warm/neutral to my ears. Really, the difference is that the Classic is more fun, V-shaped in signature whereas the Kima 2 is the more mature, refined, and 5onally balanced of the two. The Classic has a deeper low-end, more slam, meatier low-end. While the Kima 2 has the better quality low-end with a more precise impact and definition. The Kima 2 has the faster bass, with more of a direct granite infused punch. The midrange is more recessed and pushed back on the Classic whereas the mids on the Kima 2 are absolutely wonderful. More forward, cleaner, better clarity, more melodic, more of a natural note weight and richness. The Classic is a hint thinner in this region. Now, the Classic has a brighter treble, more detailed, easier to gain fatigue, but it has a higher resolution to my ears up top. Having said that, the Kima 2 has the more tonally accurate and balanced treble, easier in the ears, and a better upper treble in my opinion. As far as detail retrieval, the Classic and the Kima 2 are both slightly above average though the Classic wins out by a slight degree in the treble area while the Kima 2 has the more defined bass and midrange. I’d say the soundstage size goes to the Classic while depth and layering goes to the Kima 2.Final thoughts on this comparison
Honestly, I love that Dunu made almost identical sets yet switched up the tuning. Different flavors, if you will. Both are very well done per their respective tunings and per the cost. In fact, I still feel that the Classic is a highly underrated iem. However, I personally feel the Kima 2 is the better iem. It’s better almost across the board for me. The tonality and timbre are simply to die for on the Kima 2 and I find it is simply the more upscale version of the Kima series. That takes nothing away from the Classic. I’m sure that fans of a more V-shaped sound would not agree with me. Both are nice, but I’ll take the Kima 2.
Fiio FD15 ($149)
The Fiio FD15 (FD15 Review) is a criminally underrated iem. Let’s just get that out of the way. The fact that it isn’t being shared across social media by countless people is proof enough because the FD15 is one helluva iem. It truly is. In fact, it’s so good that this comparison isn’t really all that fair. The truth is, both sets are very similar in many ways. This is something that I noticed right away when listening to the Kima 2 for the 1st time. It was easy to spot the similarities. At any rate, the FD15 is a single dynamic driver earphone which consists of a massive 13.8 mm driver with a magnalium diaphragm and a DLC gasket. The highlights keep going though as the FD15 has a ton of physical tech and wizardry involved with the creation of the FD15. In my mind, the FD15 is one of the best iems period between $100 and $200. So again, maybe not a fair fight between the Kima 2 and FD15, but just for similarities sake it’s worth it to compare.
Differences
To begin, the difference in body style is pretty stark. The FD15 takes on Fiio’s very popular cylindrical body styles, whereas the Kima 2 is most certainly not that. The FD15 is heavier as well, denser, also made entirely of stainless steel. Oddly enough, the FD15 is also much smaller in stature. Both are nice to wear over long periods and neither feel heavy on the ear. I should add that the FD15 comes equipped with two sets of tuning nozzles, which is a nice inclusion. As far as design, I think they are both fantastic looking iems. I may like the FD15 a hair more, but I think Dunu did a marvelous job with this design and every design in the Kima series. Now, the unboxing is actually probably just as good on the Kima 2. Now, I’d say the cable of the FD15 is probably the better modular cable, as it is a Furukawa authentic cable. However, the Fiio case situation is very strange. Definitely the Kima 2 has the much better case. Both earphones come with a mountain of eartips and in truth, both brands are well known for providing great unboxing experiences. Of course, the FD15 is about $40 to $50 more in cost and so that should be noted.Sound Differences
This brings us to the sound. Now, both iems are almost dead neutral and in truth they sound very similar across the board. Of course, there are certainly differences though. Both iems are superb in tonal accuracy with extremely natural timbre. Both sets exude this aspect of the sound, and both specialize in tonal balance. However, the FD15 has that massive 13.8mm DD which most certainly provides a more guttural depth and meaty slam. Both are tight and nicely resolved down low. The Kima 2 has a touch more forward midrange while the FD15 is definitely the more detailed set of the two. In a micro sense that is. Of course, neither set is a slouch. Really most technical aspects of the sound go to the FD15 as it is simply a touch more refined altogether. That said, I don’t know which set is the more engaging of the two, that’d be tough to answer. The treble region of both sets is mostly non-offensive, both have just enough brilliance to uplift the mix, and both have nice extension in the upper treble without any splashiness. Perhaps the Kima 2 has the faintest of hairs better extension, but that’s not entirely easy to hear. Again, technically both sets offer superbly clean sound, a I’ve average details, though I’d certainly say the FD15 has the edge. Especially in terms of soundstage as the FD15 has better width, just as much depth, and both iems have nice layering and imaging abilities.Final thoughts on this comparison
Folks, these comparisons are a total crap shoot. I’m just being honest. Do you know how difficult it is to hear differences of any kind between these two sets? After hours of enjoyably going back and forth between the two I did come to the conclusion that the FD15 is probably the better set. More technically able whilst having just as engaging timbre and just as good of a tonal balance. The FD15 has the more bullish and organic bass helped by that enormous 13.8 mm DD. Trust me, the size makes a difference. However, is it worth $40 to $50 more? Probably not, is my answer. As solid as the FD15 is, I think the Kima 2 is likely the better buy. I feel that this comparison really drove that home for me.
Is it worth the asking price?
The answer to the question in the header is one of the easier questions to answer from this guy. I happen to really enjoy the Kima 2. I mean, really enjoy it. Also, I feel that Dunu honestly could’ve charged more for this iem. I mean, friends, the Dunu Kima 2 costs $100 for crying out loud. To have this level of balance, clarity, and this level of clean-cut musicality is a definite testament to the professionals over at Dunu. The Kima 2 shows me just how close Dunu got with the last two installments (Kima, Kima Classic) in this series. I feel that this time around, Dunu brought it all together. Also, understand that I’m saying this with all of the other iems within the price point sitting fresh within my mind as well. For the cost, the Kima 2 is a very well done iem.Despite all of the nice words, the Dunu Kima 2 is not going to be loved universally. It’s a tough market for any iem to truly stand out and the truth is that not all people desire a neutral-ish, and tonally-balanced. Many people in the Hobby need that heavy weighted low-end that’ll satisfy certain genres. It’s not just the low-end, because how many friends of mine enjoy even more treble presence? Another thing is that there are iems less expensive iems which gets them 85-90% of the performance of the Kima 2. So, of course, the Kima 2 is not a perfect iem. Of course it has some subjective qualms. Hopefully I’ve detailed those slight issues in this review. However, let’s check out a few reasons why the Kima 2 is most certainly worth the cost of ownership.
The Why…
Because the Kima 2 has no glaring issues. I feel that Dunu covered almost everything with this set and there’s no wondering who the Kima 2 is for. Now, anytime you go so hard with one sound signature you are going to have a more polarizing sound. Having said that, the Kima 2 is solid across the board. For what it is, and for how Dunu envisioned the sound being, I’d say they absolutely nailed it! Made entirely out of stainless steel except the brass nozzle tips is a huge bonus. Friends, this set is built like a champ. Flat-out and hands-down! Though, watch in those winter months if you are outside with the Kima 2 as I can attest that they get super cold. Anyways, the look and design of the Kima 2 hasn’t changed much from previous Kima series sets, much to my delight. I love that Dunu kept the design. It’s tough. The Kima 2 is accessorized very well. Folks, I’d venture to say that it’s “one of”, if not “thee” best unboxing experiences for $100. That’s grossly debatable, but I simply haven’t seen many other sets which have a distinctly better unboxing. Again, there could be sets that I’m not thinking of at the moment. However, regardless of whether the Kima 2 is one of the best, or not, I can tell you that you are getting a ton of usable goodies in the packaging.That sound!
As nice as the unboxing is, or the build, the design, etc. The true character of the Kima 2 is found in its tuning. Dunu did a very nice job here. Like I’ve said, the Kima 2 has a wonderfully balanced tuning with a quick and punchy low-end. It’s tight, very clean and well defined. That brings us to the gold star frequencies of the Kima 2, the midrange. Folks, the mids are some of the best mids that I’ve enjoyed around $100. Vocals are like butter, forward, yet not to a fault, as natural as can be. It’s creamy from the low-mids to the upper-mids and stuff like instruments are so well captured. Note weight is natural, timbre is natural, and without any sharpness or glare. The treble is tuned very nice in relation to the rest of the mix. Brilliant enough, clarity is high, yet they are so smooth, nothing shrill. I could keep going but no doubt if you are a natural lover and $100 is your price point, then the Kima 2 is a no brainer folks. Easily worth the cost of ownership.
Ratings (0-10)
Note: all ratings are based upon my subjective judgment. These ratings are garnered against either similarly priced sets or with similar driver implementations or styles with the unique parameters of my choosing. In the case of the Dunu Kima 2 ratings below, that would be $75-$125 earphones of any driver configuration. Please remember that “ratings” don’t tell the whole story. This leaves out nuance and a number of other qualities which make an iem what it is. A “5-6” is roughly average and please take into consideration the “lot” of iems these ratings are gathered against. $75-$125 is a fairly large sized scope of iems. So, it should be noteworthy to see a rating above a “9.0”. My ratings are never the same and each set of ratings tells a different story. Each time you read one of my ratings will be unique to that review. Basically, I create a Rating that makes sense to me. Aesthetic
–Build Quality: 9.4 Stainless steel, wonderfully built.–Look: 9.1 Love the look of this set.
–Fit/Comfort: 9.4 Fit and comfort is very good for me.
–Accessories: 9.7 One of the best around $100.
–Overall: 9.4
Sound Rating
–Timbre: 9.6 Some of the best timbre in the price point.–Bass: 9.1 Punchy, textured, clean.
–Midrange: 9.5 Awesome for vocalists.
–Treble: 8.9 Non-offensive, sparkly, clean.
–Technicalities: 8.8 I’d say it’s above average across the board.
–Musicality: 9.4 So melodic, so tuneful!
–Overall: 9.2
Ratings Summary:
Folks, I honestly don’t feel there’s anything to talk about here. I really truly feel that a “9.2” in “Overall Sound” is well beyond worth it. In my opinion. The Kima 2 hits in every area very well. I suppose anyone who needs and yearns for a bigger bass emphasis will likely not agree. However, I feel I’ve made it clear that the Kima 2 has a low-end which is judged by its quality over its quantity. It is a fantastically tuned iem. And I envision many folks adoring the Kima 2. I would go much longer here but I am up against a time crunch folks. However, these scores are legit in my opinion, what a fine set!
Conclusion
To conclude my full written review of the Dunu Kima 2, I’d first like to thank the awesome people of HiFiGo. You know who you are. Thank you very much. It would have been a crime had I never heard the Dunu Kima 2 & HiFiGo gave me that opportunity. So, thank you very much! HiFiGo has been one of my go-to online audio stores for years and they always have what I want. So, thanks a bunch! I also need to thank you, the reader, for clicking the link and checking out my full review. It means the world to us at Mobileaudiophile.com. Every click, and every moment/minute spent makes a difference in our success. So, thank you very much. I do hope that all your questions have been answered.Different Perspectives
Now that you’ve read my full review, I do hope you’ll click some other links on other reviews, from other reviewers regarding the Kima 2. It’ll help you even more to understand the Kima 2, and to make a much better educated decision before you go and plop almost $100 down on this set. It’s always a good idea to get other perspectives from other reviewers. So please listen to, watch, or read other thoughts about this set folks and I do hope you find the perfect set for your listening sessions. Okay folks, I think I’m done! I hope each and every one of you are well and good. Please stay as safe as you are able and always… God Bless!
Attachments
thaslaya's star rating system:
☆☆☆☆☆ - Fantastic!
☆☆☆☆ - Recommended
☆☆☆ - There are buyers but not for me
☆☆ - Can't see the appeal
☆ - Product is a failure
Disclaimer:
This product was provided to me by Dunu in exchange for my impartial and honest review. I recieve no compensation and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
For further product information, refer to the link below:
https://www.dunu-topsound.com/product-page/kima-2
Gear used:
●LG v30+
●Samsung Galaxy s22 Ultra
●Samsung dongle
●Hiby FC4
●Kiwi Ears Allegro
●Letshuoer DT03
●Dunu DTC480
●BLON V1
●iFi xDSD Gryphon
Source:
●Listening was done through Amazon Music HD or Ultra HD.
Introduction:
Dunu has already released two IEMs this year that I was able to review and found to be fantastic. I awarded the Dunu x Gizaudio DaVinci a five-star rating, and it's still one of my favorite sets to date. The more recent DK3001BD, or BrainDance, also received a glowing four-and-a-half-star review. The Kima 2 was released simultaneously with the BrainDance, but this one utilizes just a single dynamic driver and is positioned in the budget tier. It's the newest iteration in the Kima line up which, despite its namesake, is actually the third model following the original Kima and the Kima Classic. It's currently available through Dunu and other retailers for $119. Let's break down this latest release and see if it is as strong as the other two that I reviewed this year.
Build, fit, ergonomics:
Let me begin by stating for the record that I am not a fan of the waifu-style packaging or design. I'm not sure which company started this whole thing (Moondrop maybe?), but it doesn't appeal to me at all. In my opinion, the limited-edition packaging offers a more subtle design with a broader appeal. While I have no experience with the two previous Kima models, this newest one seems to have the same overall shell design and proportions as before. The shell is made of stainless steel and has a raised geometric shape and a matte silver-gray finish. The design is a bit plain and quite the stark contrast to the pink waifu packaging, which is all the better for me. The limited-edition version comes in a deep green colorway with a mirror finish. It's a very fetching color, and I really wish it was the standard option, but the gray version is at least more neutral in appearance. The shells are lightweight, well-built, and their size is a bit on the smaller side. The nozzle is a little short and measures 5.7 mm at its widest part, where there is a lip to help hold tips in place. I would have preferred a deeper insertion, but this one should fit most without issues. In true Dunu fashion, they did not skimp on the amount or quality of accessories here. The stock modular cable is a blend of monocrystalline copper and silver-plated monocrystalline copper. It also features Dunu's Q-Lock Mini interchangeable plug system with both 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm terminations. The build and aesthetics are very similar to Dunu's DK3001BD stock cable. However, the Kima 2's cable feels a bit cheaper in hand, and the PVC-coated portion is stiffer with more memory. That being said, I still think it's a great cable, especially for a $120 set. I used it throughout my review. The included case is incredibly nice for the price of this set. It's a larger zippered case and feels sturdy and premium. The light cream color is striking but it may get dirty easily. As for the tips, there are an impressive fourteen pairs in five different styles, including Dunu's S&S and Candy tips. There are also two other types of silicone tips and a single pair of foam. I tried each variant but found the best fit, seal, and sound with my Coreir Brass tips. Dunu rounds off the accessories with a plastic waifu stand, shell protector/divider, cable shirt clip, and cleaning tool. The only thing missing is a cable tie, which I would have liked, but I feel like I might be being greedy at this point.
Sound impressions:
The overall tuning of the Kima 2 is U-shaped, with a slight bass boost and an accentuated upper midrange. It's not the most dynamic or exciting tuning, but it is well-balanced for showcasing the midrange without leaving the bass and treble out to dry. I'd characterize the sound as "comfortable" since there's nothing offensive to be found here. It's also great at showcasing the chosen genre of music. Up-tempo rock and pop still present as lively, but also relaxed. Chill music like singer-songwriter and ballads come across calm and subdued. So, in essence, the Kima 2 is somewhat of a chameleon and makes a decent all-rounder. The note weight is generally in a good spot, not too thick nor too thin. It's surprisingly a bit hard to drive and does need some amplification to reach higher volumes, but it does scale well with power. Detail retrieval is not the Kima 2's strongest trait. It leans more toward the musical, but the detail and resolution are passable for the price. The soundstage presents itself slightly closer to the head and therefore lacks a little in width and depth, although that does lend itself to a more intimate presentation for those who prefer it. The timbre is fairly natural and organic, but rarely some notes have a sort of plastic-y characteristic that's hard to explain. It's almost as if there's a thin film surrounding some instruments and effects, which makes them sound slightly artificial. The imaging is very accurate, not only directionally but also with distance. The dynamics are good, and the balance of the tuning is well preserved at any volume level. The separation may be a touch less defined, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. The single dynamic driver responsible for the entire frequency response helps to ensure seamless transients and showcases a cohesive tuning, which can be one of the advantages of single-driver sets.
While I usually gravitate toward warmer sources, in this case, I did not prefer the Kima 2 paired with one because it seemed to overly veil the treble. I chose to use the Kiwi Ears Allegro to preserve the upper-end energy and inject a bit more excitement and crispness into the tuning. I would also recommend using a silver cable or at least a silver/copper mix over one made of pure copper.
●Lows - There's a little more focus on the mid-bass over the sub-bass, but both are still well represented. The sub-bass can dig deep when called for, but it mostly stays present and playful. It's definitely a full-bodied low end with a good thump, but it's not a bass-forward tuning; it's more of a complementary factor. The texture is a tiny bit messy or unkempt, and I think the bass could use more definition and resolution. There's good impact and slam, but it's not overdone or too in your face. The extension is decent enough, but it's not the lowest reaching I've heard in the budget section. The rumble, reverberation, and decay are very nice, and bass notes are allowed to breathe and never sound cut off prematurely. There's a bit of bass bleed into the midrange, but it's not the worst offender by any means. The bass is quick and very well articulate, especially with double bass kicks. Overall, the Kima 2 is not bass-light; rather, it places its trust in each track to showcase the amount of bass with which it was mastered. Intense bass tracks can reach low and rumble with aplomb, but it won't accentuate what's not naturally there. For my personal taste, I would welcome some additional emphasis on the low end.
●Mids - The midrange is clear and forward but also presents a bit more intimately and closely to the head, which is something I really like about this set. Vocals come across transparent and resolving, but I would welcome a little more warmth to help create an emotional connection to the music. While vocals sound very good, they lack a little soul or magic and might sound too flat for some. Female artists cut through the mix a little more than their male counterparts and exhibit slightly more emotion. The fact that the midrange presents a bit closer to the ear compared to the rest of the mix can be somewhat detracting. With busy rock tracks, things don't quite sound cohesive, and vocals in particular sound off. However, with singer-songwriter style music, the vocals actually benefit from this more intimate presentation and help showcase the artists' voices.
●Highs - The treble is mostly tame and not the most airy or extended. It does have some sparkle, and I feel it is in a good place for me, but trebleheads should look elsewhere. Cymbals, hi-hats, claps, and snares come through clearly, but they are a bit subdued and less prominent. The treble is definitely not super energetic or fun, but it matches the overall tuning philosophy of the Kima 2, which is quite calm and relaxed. There is no hint of sibilance, harshness, or thinness, and I did not hear any troublesome notes. The treble response, being mostly warm and fatigue-free, falls well within my preferences, but I appreciate a little more air and extension. However, in the end, Dunu's more cautious approach to the treble is just fine with me.
Comparisons: Credit to Super Reviews and OB Odio for the graphs.
● Aful Explorer ($120) - While both sets utilize a single dynamic driver, they have different tuning philosophies: bassy and somewhat L-shaped versus relaxed and well-balanced. The fit and comfort are better for me on the Explorer as it has a longer nozzle for deeper insertion. I also prefer the shell shape and resin material over the metal build of the Kima 2. Accessories go in favor of the Dunu for its nice modular cable, better tip selection, and a bigger zipper case. As far as tuning goes, the Explorer is bassier with better sub-bass extension and mid-bass thump. The Kima 2 isn't devoid of bass, though, and has a decent punch. It's also more resolving and better balanced with the mids and highs. The midrange of the Kima 2 sounds simultaneously more natural and better balanced as vocals and instruments are more prominent in the mix but also feel less forced. The Explorer has to accentuate the upper mids a bit because of the bolder bass response, which can lead to losing some of the organic quality of vocals and instruments. The lower midrange is cleaner and better separated on the Kima 2 as well. Interestingly enough, I hear more treble sparkle and energy in the Explorer, especially in some slightly irritating/thin "s" notes and cymbals that sound a bit splashy. The Explorer has a little more upper end extension too. The Kima 2 sounds tamer in comparison, but the treble just sounds more natural and better balanced overall. When it comes to technical performance, the Kima 2 wins handedly in most categories. The timbre is more natural and organic, and the detail retrieval, separation, layering, and dynamics are all superior to my ear. I will give the Explorer the upper hand in soundstage, though, as it's noticeably deeper and fuller, though not by a huge margin. This one ultimately comes down to preference for the overall tuning philosophy. In a direct A/B comparison, I much prefer the Kima 2's more balanced take, but the Explorer's unique tuning makes it more appealing for certain genres. However, that also means it's less of an all-rounder and more specialized.
My pick: Kima 2
● Letshuoer S08 ($100) - This is a single driver battle between the planar of the S08 and the DD of the Kima. Both have similar build-quality metal shells, but the Kima 2 is slightly larger and heavier. Neither offers a particularly deep insertion, but of the two, the Kima 2 has a better fit for me. I really like that each comes with a modular cable, but I would give the advantage in overall accessories to Dunu for the better tip selection and case. The S08 has a slightly darker tonality compared to the more balanced Kima 2. It's also the bassier set with a quick and resolving low end and a very enjoyable mid-bass thump and sub-bass rumble. The Kima 2, in comparison, sounds a little bass-light. The midrange of the Kima 2 has a more natural presentation, and the vocals might be slightly recessed compared to the S08, which has a lower midrange dip and earlier pinna gain that pushes vocals forward a bit more. The lower treble of the S08 is much less prominent, which can be good for those who are treble-sensitive, but when compared to the Kima 2, it can sound slightly incomplete, as if some of the frequencies are being neglected. The Kima 2 has a slightly fuller treble response with more presence. The planar driver of the S08 is no slouch when it comes to speed, tactility, and detail, but the DD of the Kima 2 holds up well while offering slightly more natural timbre and a wider, deeper soundstage. I do think both sets punch above their weight and have their own strengths, but the Kima 2 offers a more balanced tuning. The S08 might seem a little darker and more relaxed, but to my ear, it offers a superior bass and midrange response and that pushes it over the top for me.
My pick: S08
● Aful MagicOne ($140) - Here's another single-driver matchup, but this time it's a DD versus a full-range BA. Those who have read my review of the MagicOne know that I hold it in high regard, which should make for a fun comparison, especially since these two are so closely matched. The semi-custom shell shape and longer nozzle of the MagicOne translate to a superior fit and comfort for my ears, but the pressure build-up due to the lack of a vent may be a dealbreaker for some. I also prefer the resin build of the MagicOne to the Kima 2's metal shell. It's worth noting that the MagicOne is notoriously power-hungry and performs best with some amplification. Dunu's accessory package is superior due to the inclusion of a great zipper case, a wider tip selection, and a modular cable. It's no secret that the single BA configuration of the MagicOne doesn't offer the best bass response, and the dynamic driver of the Kima 2 makes this very apparent when directly compared. The bass of the Kima 2 is much fuller, with better sub-bass extension, weight, texture, and impact. If it were only a bass contest, the Kima 2 would win hands down. However, the real special quality of the MagicOne lies in its midrange. It has incredibly smooth, natural, and well-emphasized vocals that set it apart from just about anything in its price range. Surprisingly, the Kima 2 actually competes well and offers its own organic midrange, but the vocals are less forward, and the mids strike a better overall balance with the rest of the frequency response. The treble presentation is similar in both sets, but the MagicOne does have a touch more air and brightness, especially with some vocal notes, cymbals, and snares, which can be ever so slightly fatiguing over long periods. The soundstage of the Kima 2 does sound a bit wider, but I wouldn't consider either set to sound claustrophobic. Both offer a natural and organic timbre and decent detail retrieval. The Kima 2 does have a slightly more cohesive tuning. Ultimately, if the most enjoyable factor is forward, smooth vocals, the MagicOne is an easy recommendation. But if you cannot bear the implementation of the BA bass, the Kima 2 is a great option to preserve some of that same midrange magic and combine it with a well-balanced and well-performing DD bass.
My pick: This one is difficult, but if forced to choose, I would go with the MagicOne because it offers a more specialized and unique tuning at the cost of versatility.
● Sound Rhyme SP01 ($90) - This is another direct face-off between two single DD sets, but the SP01 offers three distinct tunings with its interchangeable nozzles. Both shells are made of aluminum and are well-built, but the Kima 2 is slightly heavier. I personally prefer the Kima 2's design and shape, but neither offers the deeper insertion that I like. Dunu's accessories are slightly better due to more tip selection and a modular cable. For this comparison, I utilized the "Balanced" nozzle on the SP01, which measures quite closely to the Kima 2 outside of the bass. However, the bass response is not that far off when compared directly. The SP01 offers a fuller bass response with more rumble, reverberation, and a deeper sub-bass extension. The Kima 2 has slightly more mid-bass emphasis and is more tactile with better resolution and texture. The lower midrange of the SP01 is better represented, but the Kima 2 has more emphasis on vocals due to the increased pinna gain. The Kima 2 does sound slightly brighter with better air and extension and is less claustrophobic when directly compared. The SP01 is slightly darker and is a great choice for those who are very treble-sensitive. The note weight is a bit thicker on the SP01, which I do enjoy, but the detail retrieval, timbre, and separation of the Kima 2 are superior. The soundstage is about even, with both having adequate width and depth for the price. Overall, I would recommend the SP01 to those looking for a fun and versatile IEM. However, for my tastes, the Kima 2 offers a better-balanced tuning, increased vocal emphasis, and superior technicalities that make it the more enjoyable set.
My pick: Kima 2
● Softears Volume (~$240) - On paper, this comparison may seem unfair (1DD versus 1DD, 2BA hybrid), but the graphs of these two are quite similar. The Volume is also a few years older, so it's good to see how the newer Kima 2 compares to some of the old guard, especially one that I still consider to be a strong competitor even against today's competition. I prefer the Volume's build combination of resin with a metal faceplate over the simpler all-metal shell of the Kima 2. I really love the green colorway, and the Volume feels a bit heavier and more solid in hand. The insertion depth is also much better for my ears, but the shell size is larger, so it might not be a better fit for some. The accessories are about the same except for the addition of a modular cable with the Kima 2, which is a testament to Dunu's accessory game since there is a large price difference between these two sets. The Kima 2's bass is a little more pronounced with better sub-bass extension and rumble, but it does sound a bit flabby and unkempt compared to the Volume's cleaner, more resolving, and tactile bass response. The midrange of both sets is probably the strongest aspect of their tunings. The Volume has a great balance that brings the mids just forward enough without detracting from the overall equilibrium. Vocals here sound smooth, clear, and natural. The Kima 2 also offers a clean and clear vocal presentation, but when I compare them directly, it comes across as a bit too forward. This could be a good thing for vocal enthusiasts, but those seeking a more balanced approach will likely prefer the Volume. Neither set has a ton of treble emphasis or extension, but the Volume does come across just a tiny bit brighter with more air. As a fairly treble-sensitive person, both sets adhere well to my preference for the treble taking a backseat to the bass and mids while still remaining present. The Volume generally has superior technicalities across the board with a wider and deeper soundstage, better detail retrieval and imaging, and a more natural tone. Overall, I find the Volume to simply be the superior set with better balance and technicalities. However, the Kima 2 is half the cost and utilizes only a single driver, but it can still hold its own. It competes well in its price bracket and may even be the preferred choice for those seeking the more bassy, fun, and dynamic tuning between these two. They definitely sound as if they are cut from the same cloth, and I would consider the Volume to be a direct upgrade to the Kima 2, which makes the choice here quite easy. I'll take the one that offers a more mature and better-balanced tuning with superior technicalities.
My pick: Volume
In conclusion:
The Kima 2 is an impressive release, even among the flood of new products seen in 2024. It boasts excellent build quality, fantastic accessories, and a well-balanced tuning. The bass is punchy but not overbearing, the midrange has a touch of warmth and a natural timbre, and the treble has just enough energy for excitement without causing fatigue. For me, the real draw is how the Kima 2 creates a very musical and cohesive sound that stands out in its price bracket. The transition from bass to mids and mids to highs sounds effortless and seamless. That's what a single driver can bring to the table compared to some hybrid and tribrid models that utilize crossover technology to achieve similar transient effects. Sure, the Kima 2 may not have the best technical performance nor does it have a particularly unique or exciting tuning, but it does offer a certain musicality that cannot be understated for only $120. Personally, I would like to see it improved further by cleaning up the bass texture and performance, injecting a little more soul to help the vocals bring on that emotive quality, and adding a smidge more extension and air to the treble without introducing any harshness or sibilance. As it stands, I find the Kima 2 to be a very solid IEM, and I think it does just enough to set itself apart from others in its price range. I would recommend this one to newcomers and veterans alike who are curious to experience just what a single dynamic driver budget set can do in today’s market. Those looking for a set that can faithfully reproduce all genres of music, and has fantastic accessories as well, should seriously consider the Kima 2.
Attachments
o0genesis0o
Great review, mate. It must have taken quite a bit of effort for all the detailed comparisons.
thaslaya
Thanks buddy! The comparison section is something I've been utlizing more lately and it actually helps me to understand an IEMs overall tuning better.
DUNU Kima 2
Single Dynamic Driver - $119.99
Introduction
I have an incredibly soft spot for DUNU as I consider them to be the brand that really lured me in to this hobby in a more significant way in late 2020 when I saw an announcement for the ‘ZEN’ single dynamic driver – I was dabbling in various sets at the time, with my single most expensive purchase at that point being the Sony XBA-N3. I was really taken by the design of the ZEN, and ultimately decided to take the plunge, taking a big step up and splashing out a cool $699 on an IEM… I still remember the mixed feelings of excitement and shock as to the amount I had just spent (little did I know where the rollercoaster would ultimately take me…) but importantly how utterly amazed I was by the whole unboxing experience when my ZEN landed in early 2021 – DUNU really did anchor me and set a benchmark for both unboxing and accessories which to this day is rarely rivalled, albeit except for considerably more expensive IEMs.
I subsequently purchased the SA6, and having participated in a tour for the ZEN PRO, ultimately ordered a set. Admittedly and rather stupidly, again as part of the hobby rollercoaster, I have since sold them all and I would say the one set that really stands out as a regrettable sale is the ZEN PRO – I often think about buying again and probably will one day, a truly wonderful single dynamic driver.
More recently, I had the privilege to be among the first reviewers to receive the spectacular DK3001BD ‘Braindance’, without question in my tops IEMs for 2024 and I would say a legend in the making. There is a lot of love in the community for this set, and absolutely well deserved.
A final bit of DUNU fanboy words before I move on. I have massive respect for how DUNU approach the market – they do not churn out numerous sets, only releasing new products as they move through longer sales cycles while clearly allowing sufficient focus time for R&D into new and worthy sets to unleash on the market – this really is admirable, and certainly for me drives a sense of passion and care for what they do.
I would like to thank DUNU for sending me the Kima 2 for review, as always there is no input from the brand into the words and photos that follow…
About me... (in a spoiler)
Specifications
First off, you get the typical bar raising level of accessories that DUNU seem to provide no matter what the price point… I mean you’ve got a high-quality case, wonderful selection of tips, a cleaning cloth, and a mesh pouch to keep the Kima 2 stored safely when not in use?! – I’ve seen sets at least two or three times the price with nothing like this selection of accessories, and indeed at this level of quality.
Design
The shells are a fully stainless steel design and feel robust and sturdy, but not too heavy. The nozzle is on the longer and slimmer side, something that can be a bit troublesome for me at times but I’ve mostly solved now with the discovery a few months ago of the excellent Acoustune AEX07 in XL, my saviour for smaller nozzles and my large ear canal openings!
I find them very comfortable and no issues with discomfort for longer sessions.
The cable is a thing of beauty, both from an appearance and touch perspective – I could almost see the cable being sold separately to be honest for the price of this full package! I do find it a touch too thick and heavy though for out walking – only very marginal though and I’m quite fussy about cables when I’m walking, preferring them to be ultra-light and thin. Although to note, for those of you who have DK3001BD, the Kima 2 cable is like a ‘low-fat’ version, pretty much the exact same except lighter. Oh and of course I must point out the excellent modular system for 3.5mm and 4.4mm, DUNU does this best in my opinion where it feels secure, easy to change, and a neat/tidy execution.
Listening Impressions
The vast majority of my listening has been with the Sony ZX707 (Japanese model) – Kima 2 are pretty easy to drive, so the relatively underpowered Sony has no problem here on high gain.
I’ve had these maybe five or six weeks now, and anytime I reach for them, I’m left with the same thought – how the heck are these only $119?! While yes one could nitpick and seek more details, more precise imaging, a larger stage, and perhaps a bit more treble… but holy-moly when it comes to just simply enjoying music, which ultimately is mostly the main goal, the Kima 2 delivers in bucket loads… and again I must emphasise, for a relatively low asking price. I’ve had countless single DDs over the years, many of which I still keep in my collection, so I kind of consider this format of transducer to be an area of speciality for me, or indeed an area that I simply love – it’s hard to beat the coherency and timbre of the humble single dynamic driver.
Superb balance, a hint of warmth, and just a set that is easy to listen to, and easy to love no matter what genre you load up… a veritable ‘jack of all trades’ that if we continue the analogy, would have a fantastic review ranking for their ability to get the job done, no matter what.
Bass
Kima 2 leans slightly more towards mid-bass than sub-bass, and you get reasonable quantity of each, just certainly not at bass-head levels. The quality however is very nice, a good sense of texture and realism in this region. When sub is called for, there is certainly a satisfying level of rumble, but just don’t expect it to reach down into your chest…
Midrange
The midrange performance is excellent, and really stands out for me in terms of the overall tuning. Most of the activity in music occurs here, and while of course the lower and upper ends of the register play a large part, the emotion tends to live in the midrange… critical criteria here being a good balance of clarity, warmth, and a driver that is capable of dealing with complexity and speed, all of which Kima 2 delivers on. Everything from male to female vocals, piano to electric guitar, violin to trumpets, and of course any other instrument one might care to mention, are rendered beautifully – you’ve got the timbre, the emotion, the clarity, and the cohesion. The lower mids have good weight to them, and provide that lush and warm sensation. Upper mids step back slightly, ensuring a ‘safe’ region here where some (including me) can be sensitive. The mids in general allow for a very relaxing and engaging listen, and again work with any genre.
Treble
This region is safe and might leave those seeking more sparkle a bit wanting. This is of course the challenge of a single dynamic driver, difficult to tune to a point where you get each region of the FR to a point that will appeal to everyone. However, not to say that it’s dark or overly subdued up top, there is certainly a touch of sparkle up top and enough to ensure details are sufficiently heard in this region – and indeed this plays into the overall tuning in as far as securing a title of a ‘jack of all trades’ – the treble will never offend.
Technical
First off, a reminder that this is a $119 set – a set that performs incredibly well from a musical experience perspective. Yes it does fall a touch short when it comes to imaging, layering, stage size and the most tiny of details… but as I’ve noted in other reviews, I consider this a tuning choice at times too – a safe all-rounder that plays any genre very well, especially a single DD, has to have some trade-offs in my experience. So yes, the stage isn’t massive, but I think it’s acceptable – it has a nice sense of stereo width, with that ‘middle of your head’ central positioning where it then emanates out left and right in a classic ‘sweet spot’ style of delivery.
Comparisons
FIIO FD15
Both sets have really impressed me in 2024, demonstrating that for not a huge amount of money, you can get a huge amount of musical enjoyment, and with superb build quality. DUNU takes the prize though in terms of bundled accessories, I’m not quite sure what FIIO were thinking when it comes to their new clear plastic cases – fine for storing your IEM, but they look cheap and certainly not practical for on-the-go.
The FD15 sounds a touch brighter, and at the same time a touch more technically competent – the details are more nuanced at the micro level… the Kima 2 on the other hand has a tonal advantage in terms of the super-engaging presentation that captivates regardless of genre – not to say the FD15 doesn’t, as it absolutely does – I just think Kima 2 has an edge here. Overall though they are quite similar, and if you already own one, buying the other would simply be an example of exploration, curiosity, and the usual collector nature of this hobby. I’d find it hard to call a preference here to be honest as they are both wonderful examples of beautifully tuned single dynamic drivers, at prices that are relatively modest and accessible.
Conclusion
The Kima 2 is an incredibly capable and highly enjoyable single dynamic driver, and like I said about the DK3001BD, probably a bit of a classic in the making – there is a vast amount of ‘noise’ in our hobby, with new sets appearing almost on a daily basis… many of which disappear relatively quickly – for a brand to succeed, they have to stand out, and I absolutely believe that DUNU has ticked this box with the Kima 2 – whether you are early in your IEM journey, or a hardened IEM addict, the Kima 2 is without question worthy of consideration for your collection, and comes with my highest recommendation… a complete package in terms of the fantastic DUNU unboxing experience, the wonderful selection of accessories, the premium build quality, and the ability to allow you enjoy absolutely any segment of your library.
Single Dynamic Driver - $119.99
Introduction
I have an incredibly soft spot for DUNU as I consider them to be the brand that really lured me in to this hobby in a more significant way in late 2020 when I saw an announcement for the ‘ZEN’ single dynamic driver – I was dabbling in various sets at the time, with my single most expensive purchase at that point being the Sony XBA-N3. I was really taken by the design of the ZEN, and ultimately decided to take the plunge, taking a big step up and splashing out a cool $699 on an IEM… I still remember the mixed feelings of excitement and shock as to the amount I had just spent (little did I know where the rollercoaster would ultimately take me…) but importantly how utterly amazed I was by the whole unboxing experience when my ZEN landed in early 2021 – DUNU really did anchor me and set a benchmark for both unboxing and accessories which to this day is rarely rivalled, albeit except for considerably more expensive IEMs.
I subsequently purchased the SA6, and having participated in a tour for the ZEN PRO, ultimately ordered a set. Admittedly and rather stupidly, again as part of the hobby rollercoaster, I have since sold them all and I would say the one set that really stands out as a regrettable sale is the ZEN PRO – I often think about buying again and probably will one day, a truly wonderful single dynamic driver.
More recently, I had the privilege to be among the first reviewers to receive the spectacular DK3001BD ‘Braindance’, without question in my tops IEMs for 2024 and I would say a legend in the making. There is a lot of love in the community for this set, and absolutely well deserved.
A final bit of DUNU fanboy words before I move on. I have massive respect for how DUNU approach the market – they do not churn out numerous sets, only releasing new products as they move through longer sales cycles while clearly allowing sufficient focus time for R&D into new and worthy sets to unleash on the market – this really is admirable, and certainly for me drives a sense of passion and care for what they do.
I would like to thank DUNU for sending me the Kima 2 for review, as always there is no input from the brand into the words and photos that follow…
About me... (in a spoiler)
About Me…
I worked in the consumer electronics industry for a large part of my career and have been passionate about music and technology for as long as I can remember. Even as a small child, I would ask my mum to put records on the turntable (Abba, Supertramp, and Planxty if anyone is curious).
My music preferences are very varied—anything from classical to techno, indie rock to jazz, and everything in between. In my early teens, I was a big fan of bands like The Cure and The Smiths (still am all these years later). I was bitten by the dance music bug in the early 90s, becoming passionate about genres like techno, house, trance, and IDM. I amassed a huge collection of records and CDs, DJing at various parties and occasional pirate radio station slots. Although it remained a hobby, I still own thousands of records, and my trusty Technics 1210 turntables are still going strong 30 years later—a testament to Japanese engineering!
I am not a professional reviewer, just an enthusiast who loves music and the devices we use to listen to it. Over the last few years, I have become obsessed with IEMs and related gear. I've bought and sold many, and kept a select few—ranging from the $20 Moondrop Chu to kilobuck sets like the Aroma Jewel, Oriolus' infamous 'Traillii,' UM Mentor, and various beloved single DDs. Through this exploration, I like to share my thoughts with the Head-Fi community, hoping they might be useful to others. However, remember that this is a highly subjective hobby, and your mileage may vary.
While I've been fortunate to own and try a variety of the TOTL sets on the market, I honestly enjoy lower-priced sets as much - especially as the gap continues to close, many much cheaper sets now offering significant value and further driving diminishing returns.
I’ll admit I do suffer from happy ears—rarely do I find an IEM that I genuinely dislike. At this stage, there are very few truly "bad" IEMs; it all comes down to individual preferences. Since I listen to such a wide variety of genres, I almost always find synergy with some part of my library. Where I tend to deduct marks is in areas like value for money, poor accessories, or an uncomfortable fit—things that can detract from the overall experience.
I worked in the consumer electronics industry for a large part of my career and have been passionate about music and technology for as long as I can remember. Even as a small child, I would ask my mum to put records on the turntable (Abba, Supertramp, and Planxty if anyone is curious).
My music preferences are very varied—anything from classical to techno, indie rock to jazz, and everything in between. In my early teens, I was a big fan of bands like The Cure and The Smiths (still am all these years later). I was bitten by the dance music bug in the early 90s, becoming passionate about genres like techno, house, trance, and IDM. I amassed a huge collection of records and CDs, DJing at various parties and occasional pirate radio station slots. Although it remained a hobby, I still own thousands of records, and my trusty Technics 1210 turntables are still going strong 30 years later—a testament to Japanese engineering!
I am not a professional reviewer, just an enthusiast who loves music and the devices we use to listen to it. Over the last few years, I have become obsessed with IEMs and related gear. I've bought and sold many, and kept a select few—ranging from the $20 Moondrop Chu to kilobuck sets like the Aroma Jewel, Oriolus' infamous 'Traillii,' UM Mentor, and various beloved single DDs. Through this exploration, I like to share my thoughts with the Head-Fi community, hoping they might be useful to others. However, remember that this is a highly subjective hobby, and your mileage may vary.
While I've been fortunate to own and try a variety of the TOTL sets on the market, I honestly enjoy lower-priced sets as much - especially as the gap continues to close, many much cheaper sets now offering significant value and further driving diminishing returns.
I’ll admit I do suffer from happy ears—rarely do I find an IEM that I genuinely dislike. At this stage, there are very few truly "bad" IEMs; it all comes down to individual preferences. Since I listen to such a wide variety of genres, I almost always find synergy with some part of my library. Where I tend to deduct marks is in areas like value for money, poor accessories, or an uncomfortable fit—things that can detract from the overall experience.
Specifications
- NET WEIGHT: 10.5 g (Per Side)
- FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 5 Hz - 40 kHz
- IMPEDANCE : 20 Ω
- SENSITIVITY : 108 dB/mW @ 1 kHz, 125 dB/Vrms @ 1 kHz
- TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION: < 0.3% at 1 kHz
- DYNAMIC DRIVER CONFIGURATION:
- External Magnet DLC Composite Diaphragm
- HOUSING MATERIAL:
- S316 Stainless Steel
- WIRE MATERIAL:
- Four-Core Monocrystalline Copper and Silver-Plated Monocrystalline Copper
- CABLE LENGTH: 1.2 ‡ 0.1 m
- CABLE CONNECTOR: 2-Pin (0.78 mm)
- PLUG CONNECTOR:
- Patented Q-Lock Mini Interchangeable Plug System
- INCLUDED PLUG TERMINATION(S) :
- 4.4 mm TRRRS Balanced, 3.5 mm TRS Single-Ended
First off, you get the typical bar raising level of accessories that DUNU seem to provide no matter what the price point… I mean you’ve got a high-quality case, wonderful selection of tips, a cleaning cloth, and a mesh pouch to keep the Kima 2 stored safely when not in use?! – I’ve seen sets at least two or three times the price with nothing like this selection of accessories, and indeed at this level of quality.
Design
The shells are a fully stainless steel design and feel robust and sturdy, but not too heavy. The nozzle is on the longer and slimmer side, something that can be a bit troublesome for me at times but I’ve mostly solved now with the discovery a few months ago of the excellent Acoustune AEX07 in XL, my saviour for smaller nozzles and my large ear canal openings!
I find them very comfortable and no issues with discomfort for longer sessions.
The cable is a thing of beauty, both from an appearance and touch perspective – I could almost see the cable being sold separately to be honest for the price of this full package! I do find it a touch too thick and heavy though for out walking – only very marginal though and I’m quite fussy about cables when I’m walking, preferring them to be ultra-light and thin. Although to note, for those of you who have DK3001BD, the Kima 2 cable is like a ‘low-fat’ version, pretty much the exact same except lighter. Oh and of course I must point out the excellent modular system for 3.5mm and 4.4mm, DUNU does this best in my opinion where it feels secure, easy to change, and a neat/tidy execution.
Listening Impressions
The vast majority of my listening has been with the Sony ZX707 (Japanese model) – Kima 2 are pretty easy to drive, so the relatively underpowered Sony has no problem here on high gain.
I’ve had these maybe five or six weeks now, and anytime I reach for them, I’m left with the same thought – how the heck are these only $119?! While yes one could nitpick and seek more details, more precise imaging, a larger stage, and perhaps a bit more treble… but holy-moly when it comes to just simply enjoying music, which ultimately is mostly the main goal, the Kima 2 delivers in bucket loads… and again I must emphasise, for a relatively low asking price. I’ve had countless single DDs over the years, many of which I still keep in my collection, so I kind of consider this format of transducer to be an area of speciality for me, or indeed an area that I simply love – it’s hard to beat the coherency and timbre of the humble single dynamic driver.
Superb balance, a hint of warmth, and just a set that is easy to listen to, and easy to love no matter what genre you load up… a veritable ‘jack of all trades’ that if we continue the analogy, would have a fantastic review ranking for their ability to get the job done, no matter what.
Bass
Kima 2 leans slightly more towards mid-bass than sub-bass, and you get reasonable quantity of each, just certainly not at bass-head levels. The quality however is very nice, a good sense of texture and realism in this region. When sub is called for, there is certainly a satisfying level of rumble, but just don’t expect it to reach down into your chest…
Midrange
The midrange performance is excellent, and really stands out for me in terms of the overall tuning. Most of the activity in music occurs here, and while of course the lower and upper ends of the register play a large part, the emotion tends to live in the midrange… critical criteria here being a good balance of clarity, warmth, and a driver that is capable of dealing with complexity and speed, all of which Kima 2 delivers on. Everything from male to female vocals, piano to electric guitar, violin to trumpets, and of course any other instrument one might care to mention, are rendered beautifully – you’ve got the timbre, the emotion, the clarity, and the cohesion. The lower mids have good weight to them, and provide that lush and warm sensation. Upper mids step back slightly, ensuring a ‘safe’ region here where some (including me) can be sensitive. The mids in general allow for a very relaxing and engaging listen, and again work with any genre.
Treble
This region is safe and might leave those seeking more sparkle a bit wanting. This is of course the challenge of a single dynamic driver, difficult to tune to a point where you get each region of the FR to a point that will appeal to everyone. However, not to say that it’s dark or overly subdued up top, there is certainly a touch of sparkle up top and enough to ensure details are sufficiently heard in this region – and indeed this plays into the overall tuning in as far as securing a title of a ‘jack of all trades’ – the treble will never offend.
Technical
First off, a reminder that this is a $119 set – a set that performs incredibly well from a musical experience perspective. Yes it does fall a touch short when it comes to imaging, layering, stage size and the most tiny of details… but as I’ve noted in other reviews, I consider this a tuning choice at times too – a safe all-rounder that plays any genre very well, especially a single DD, has to have some trade-offs in my experience. So yes, the stage isn’t massive, but I think it’s acceptable – it has a nice sense of stereo width, with that ‘middle of your head’ central positioning where it then emanates out left and right in a classic ‘sweet spot’ style of delivery.
Comparisons
FIIO FD15
Both sets have really impressed me in 2024, demonstrating that for not a huge amount of money, you can get a huge amount of musical enjoyment, and with superb build quality. DUNU takes the prize though in terms of bundled accessories, I’m not quite sure what FIIO were thinking when it comes to their new clear plastic cases – fine for storing your IEM, but they look cheap and certainly not practical for on-the-go.
The FD15 sounds a touch brighter, and at the same time a touch more technically competent – the details are more nuanced at the micro level… the Kima 2 on the other hand has a tonal advantage in terms of the super-engaging presentation that captivates regardless of genre – not to say the FD15 doesn’t, as it absolutely does – I just think Kima 2 has an edge here. Overall though they are quite similar, and if you already own one, buying the other would simply be an example of exploration, curiosity, and the usual collector nature of this hobby. I’d find it hard to call a preference here to be honest as they are both wonderful examples of beautifully tuned single dynamic drivers, at prices that are relatively modest and accessible.
Conclusion
The Kima 2 is an incredibly capable and highly enjoyable single dynamic driver, and like I said about the DK3001BD, probably a bit of a classic in the making – there is a vast amount of ‘noise’ in our hobby, with new sets appearing almost on a daily basis… many of which disappear relatively quickly – for a brand to succeed, they have to stand out, and I absolutely believe that DUNU has ticked this box with the Kima 2 – whether you are early in your IEM journey, or a hardened IEM addict, the Kima 2 is without question worthy of consideration for your collection, and comes with my highest recommendation… a complete package in terms of the fantastic DUNU unboxing experience, the wonderful selection of accessories, the premium build quality, and the ability to allow you enjoy absolutely any segment of your library.
Attachments
Specs And Driver Configuration
- 1 Eclipse Dynamic Driver (DLC Composite Dome)
- Impedance: 20Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB @1kHz
- Shell weight: 10.5gm per side.
- Shell Material: S316 Stainless Steel
Before starting the review, I want to thank @DUNU-Topsound for sending this iem in for a review.
Unboxing Experience and Accessories Package
You simply can’t beat Dunu when it comes to the unboxing experience. For the price, it’s absolutely fantastic. The external sleeve immediately grabs your attention with its beautiful artwork, making for a striking first impression.
Once you slide off the sleeve, you’re greeted by a plain black box.
Opening the box reveals an IEM stand adorned with the same artwork as the outer sleeve. Just beneath it, the IEMs are presented front and center, showcasing them in all their glory. Below this layer lies the carry case containing the rest of the accessories.
The accessories provided are excellent for the price. Things provided in the box are 1. Iem strand 2. Iem carry case 3. Dunu S&S tips 4. Dunu candy tips 5. Two different colors of balanced tips 5. cleaning tool 6. shirt clip 7. Iem shell baggie 8. Modular cable with extra 3.5mm termination
The cable provided looks and feels very good. It feels very sturdy and robust. It behaves very well, it wraps nicely and doesn’t tangle easily. The lower part of the cable is sleeved and after the y split the cable is not sleeved. It features the excellent Q-Lock Mini interchangeable termination system, which is my preferred type of modular system. The threaded design allows you to securely tighten the connectors after changing the termination, ensuring a reliable fit. In comparison, friction-fit systems tend to loosen over time, making the Q-Lock Mini a superior choice. The eartips provided are superb, providing excellent seal and comfort.
The included case is well-built, and you can easily store your iem with a dongle dac in it. My main gripe with the case is its light color, it picks up dirt very easily, I wish they provided the same color as davinci’s case.
Design and Build Quality
Kima 2 features the same design as older iems in the Kima family. Kima 2 looks professional and understated, perfect for people who don’t like flashy faceplates. But don’t get me wrong professional does not mean boring, the faceted face plate design prevents it from being completely bland and boring design.
The build quality matches its looks. The full metal shell feels sturdy and robust. Shells are slighly on the hefty side, so tip roll to get the optimal fit. Seeing a fully metal shell iem at this price is a breath of fresh air as most iems are resin. I am not knocking down resin shells but the feel and heft of metal shells is something else.
Fit and Comfort
The fit and comfort of this IEM are decent overall. The nozzle, while quite long, has a somewhat unusual shape, though its thickness doesn’t pose any issues. However, the shells lack any ergonomic molding to support the fit, which can make them less secure in the ear. As a result, selecting the right eartip that provides a deep and stable fit is crucial. Without the proper eartip, the IEM may shift up and down in your ear, affecting both comfort and sound quality.
Tip rolling is essential to achieve the best fit and comfort, ensuring the IEM stays securely in place during use. The isolation provided by this IEM is on the lower side, allowing outside noise to come through more easily. This makes it less ideal for use in noisy environments, such as during commuting or traveling.
Sources Used
For my sound testing, I paired the Dunu Kima with the Chord Mojo 2. I found that I didn’t need to crank the volume much, indicating that this IEM is quite efficient and easy to drive. This makes it a versatile option, even for use with less powerful sources.
Frequency Response
I used the provided candy tips for my sound testing. Kima 2 has a warm neutral sound signature.
Bass
The bass overall is more about quality than quantity. If you’re someone who prefers strong, dominating bass, this might not be the IEM for you. The bass gradually rises from the sub-bass to the mid-bass region. However, the graphs don’t tell the whole story here—you can hear a lot more bass than what the graphs might suggest. This is all thanks to the excellent bass dynamics and punch. The attack is also well-defined, adding a sense of precision to the low end.
The sub-bass delivers a nice rumble and texture, while the mid-bass is undeniably punchy and tactile in its presentation. This type of bass tuning works perfectly for ballads and vocal-centric libraries, where the focus is more on clarity and dynamics rather than overwhelming bass. Personally, I would have liked slightly more sub-bass to make this IEM better suited for genres like hip-hop and rock. Overall no major complains.
Mids
In my opinion, the mids are the star of the show on this IEM. They are well-textured and shine beautifully, as there isn’t much bass to mask them. The mid-bass transitions gradually into the lower mids, giving them a nice sense of heft and body. The note weight leans slightly toward the thicker side, adding richness to the sound. The upper mids are well-extended and open without ever sounding harsh or shouty. The presence region is perfectly tuned, adding just the right amount of edge and detail to the upper mids. Vocals, in particular, sound sublime on this IEM you can put on a vocal-centric track, sit back, and just relax. Male vocals have a satisfying heft, making them sound authoritative and powerful, while female vocals, though slightly on the husky side, are equally excellent. Vocalists like Adele and Michael Bublé sound absolutely sublime on this IEM. Instruments also come across as very natural, complementing the vocals perfectly. Overall, the mids are the main reason why you would want to purchase this IEM—they are truly its standout feature.
Treble
The treble on this IEM is very good. It is smooth and well-extended, complementing the overall tuning rather than drawing too much attention to itself. One thing I noticed with the treble on the Kima 2 is that it doesn’t suffer from the graininess that some other dynamic drivers can exhibit when not tuned properly. I believe this is a result of both thoughtful tuning and the use of a high-quality driver.
There is a dip around 10kHz, after which the treble picks back up. I feel that if this 10kHz dip weren’t as pronounced, the sense of detail could have been even better on this IEM. The treble isn’t “exciting,” but it’s tuned in a way that ensures longer listening sessions without causing fatigue, which is a big plus. Overall, the treble balances the tuning nicely and adds to the IEM’s versatility. The extension is also decent preventing the treble from sounding too dark.
Detail retrieval and Technical Performance
I won’t consider kima 2 as a “Tech forward” set, it is not its strong suit. The detail retrieval is decent with decent macro and micro detail pickup. I would say other hybrid iems like nova have detail retrieval.
The technical performance is also decent. The stage is on the intimate side, the front and depth pickup is okayish. Instrument separation and layering is also decent.
Conclusion
Dunu has once again delivered a solid IEM with great build quality, an excellent accessories package, and well-balanced tuning. The Kima 2 truly shines in its vocal performance, making it an excellent choice for those with a vocal-centric library.
This IEM is perfect for anyone seeking a high-quality single dynamic driver with smooth treble, natural mids, and controlled bass. It also works well as a complementary set to IEMs like the Truthear Nova, offering a more musical and vocal-focused listening experience. For its price, the Kima 2 is a fantastic option for both casual listeners and enthusiasts.
Attachments
*Kima (κύμα ) at Greek means the wave
Dunu
Dunu has established itself as a leading brand in the HiFi audio sector, becoming synonymous with the Chi-Fi movement and pioneering the production of high-quality earphones at accessible prices. I will always remember the excitement I felt when I purchased the Dunu Titan T1, my first pair of premium earphones from China.
Dunu Kima 2
In 2022, Dunu introduced the Kima earphones, which achieved significant acclaim for their exceptional sound quality at a reasonable price point. The company has now launched an enhanced version of this successful in-ear monitor, known as the Kima 2. This new model offers substantial upgrades over its predecessor, featuring a state-of-the-art DLC composite dome dynamic driver and a more robust magnetic architecture.
Dunu has incorporated the same magnetic design found in their premium Falcon Ultra IEMs into the Kima 2. Additionally, the tuning of the Kima 2 is based on the highly regarded limited edition Vernus IEMs, which garnered considerable attention from audiophiles. Dunu has refined this tuning profile to further enhance the performance of the Kima 2.
The two versions
The Dunu Kima 2 was introduced in two distinct variants: a standard model and a limited edition, which is restricted to 999 units. While both variants share identical tuning characteristics, they are differentiated by their finishes and accompanying accessories.
The limited edition features a luminous green hue with mirror-finished ear shells, contrasting with the smooth-matte silver finish of the standard model. The accessories are largely the same, with the exception of the carrying case; the limited edition comes with a high-quality pouch bag, whereas the standard version is packaged in a classic-style carrying case with a side zipper. Both models are available at a price of $119.99.
Non Audio stuff
The ear shells are constructed from durable stainless steel, utilizing a sandblasting technique for the standard version and a mirror-finishing process for the limited edition. The faceplates are designed with a multi-faceted cut that creates a captivating interplay of light and shadow, which is particularly pronounced in the limited edition.
The limited edition boasts a more extravagant appearance, likely to draw significant attention, while some individuals may prefer the understated elegance of the standard version. It is also important to note that the mirror-polished surfaces of the limited edition tend to attract fingerprints, necessitating regular maintenance. The Kima 2 is exceptionally crafted, and its quality greatly exceeds its reasonable price.
The ear-shells are designed to be both compact and lightweight, featuring a shallow contour that, when paired with the moderately extended sound tubes, ensures a comfortable and secure fit. Users can enjoy wearing the Kima 2 for extended periods without experiencing any discomfort, and the passive noise isolation is notably effective, particularly when utilizing the Dunu S&S ear-tips.
Cable and accessories
The cable accompanying the Kima 2 is among the finest I have encountered, regardless of the earphones' price point, and I would willingly invest $119.99 solely for the cable. It is constructed with four cores of mono-crystalline copper and silver-plated mono-crystalline copper wires, encased in a nylon shock-absorbing sleeve that enhances both durability and aesthetics.
This cable features a metallic splitter and a 2-pin interface with recessed sockets, ensuring added durability and a secure connection. Additionally, it incorporates Dunu’s patented Q-Lock Mini interchangeable termination plug system, which includes two plugs: 4.4mm and 3.5mm. The cable is designed for excellent handling, remaining tangle-free, lightweight, and compact, while also minimizing microphonic noise.
The limited edition is accompanied by a premium carrying pouch-bag, while the standard version features a side zippered carrying case. Additionally, both versions are supplied with a smaller carrying pouch, a shirt clip, a cleaning brush, and four varieties of ear-tips, as depicted in the accompanying image. This comprehensive bundle is seldom available at such a competitive price.
Drivability
The Dunu Kima 2 features impedance and sensitivity ratings of 20Ω and 108dB/mW, respectively, making it relatively easy to drive and less susceptible to source noise. It performs adequately with USB DAC dongles and demonstrates significantly improved performance when paired with higher-quality sources such as the FiiO M23 and the iBasso DX180, which were primarily utilized during the review.
Listening impressions
Upon first listening to the Kima 2, the term "balanced" immediately comes to mind, and this initial impression only intensifies over time. The Kima 2 exhibits nearly flawless tuning, featuring a neutral low-end, a prominent mid-range with a slight emphasis on the upper mids, and a treble that is both smooth and vibrant. The sound is distinguished by remarkable tonal accuracy across the entire frequency spectrum, accompanied by a timbre that is strikingly natural and lifelike.
The tonal coherence of the Kima 2 is exceptional, surpassing what multi-driver configurations within the same category can aspire to achieve. Its sound possesses an organic and lifelike quality, devoid of any discernible artificiality. The Kima 2 is rich in vibrant harmonies, with music flowing effortlessly like spring water; voices resonate authentically, and instruments are rendered with remarkable realism. This creates a profound connection for the listener, who feels immersed in the music as if participating in a live concert rather than merely listening through earphones.
Moreover, the overall technical performance is more than adequate for discerning listeners, while the Kima 2 also delivers an enjoyable and satisfying experience across various musical genres. It stands as a versatile earphone that is likely to be appreciated by a wide audience, except for those who favor overly exaggerated or excessively mainstream sound profiles.
The low-frequency response is optimally tuned, featuring commendable sub-bass extension and a balanced bass profile that avoids any pronounced mid-bass enhancement or drastic tonal alterations. The inherent tonal quality of all lower-pitched instruments is preserved, and the transition to the mid-range occurs smoothly, free from any additional coloration of the sound.
The bass performance is distinguished by remarkable clarity and layering, even when handling the most challenging tracks within this category. It is characterized by speed, precision, and control, devoid of any signs of bloating or resonant artifacts. While the textures may not be overwhelmingly rich or visceral, they maintain a level of fullness, and the physical impact and punch can be notably impressive.
The mid-range exhibits a harmonious balance, characterized by a slight warmth that is both rich and captivating. It neither feels subdued nor overly pronounced, presenting a refined auditory experience that is both musical and lifelike. The tonal accuracy remains commendable, with the Kima 2 offering equal reverence to both vocal and instrumental elements. Overtones and fundamental tones intertwine beautifully, creating a vibrant and resonant sound that avoids any elements of listener fatigue. While the Kima 2 may not be a powerhouse in technical specifications, it certainly does not fall short in clarity and resolution.
The treble exhibits a vibrant and radiant quality while maintaining a smooth, courteous, and forgiving character, without sacrificing definition and clarity. The Kima 2 reveals a significant amount of inner detail, albeit subtly, ensuring that it does not come across as overly analytical. This earphone distinctly avoids a clinical or sterile sound profile; the higher frequencies are devoid of harshness, excessive brightness, or any metallic artificiality. While some listeners may miss some energy and brightness, the majority will appreciate its natural tonal quality and recognize the sound's coherence, as well as the skillful integration of the treble with the lower frequencies.
The soundstage is unexpectedly expansive and airy, featuring a naturally broadened width, though it lacks depth layering and a sense of holographic presence. The overall impression is that of a flat, horizontally oriented soundstage, yet the projection occurs outside the head, positioned at the front of the listener's face, with imaging that is notably strong for this category.
Comparison with the FiiO FD15
The FiiO FD15, priced at $30 more, stands out as my preferred single dynamic driver earphone within a specific price range due to its remarkable tonal accuracy and realistic timbre.
Both earphones exhibit nearly identical sound profiles, with only slight variations. The FD15 offers a deeper bass response and is tuned more neutrally in the lower frequencies, while it presents a slightly more pronounced midrange and a less extended treble. They both excel in tonal accuracy and timbre realism, with neither being technically superior to the other. Both are equally musical and engaging, with the primary distinction being that the FiiO has a drier sound compared to the Kima 2, which is characterized by a lusher and more organic quality. I genuinely appreciate both models, as they rank among my top earphones.
In terms of physical attributes, both earphones provide a comfortable fit and exhibit high-quality construction. They are well-equipped with accessories; however, the plastic case of the FD15 is of lesser quality compared to the premium carrying case offered with both the standard and limited editions of the Kima 2. Additionally, the cable of the Kima 2 is softer and lighter than that of the FD15, which benefits from the inclusion of three sound tuning tubes.
Conclusion
The Dunu Kima 2 has quickly established itself as one of my preferred earphones, thanks to its remarkable tonal accuracy and realistic timbre. I am confident that anyone who appreciates these qualities will feel the same. While some may perceive a deficiency in treble brilliance or technical capabilities, the majority will likely value the earphones' rich musicality and laid-back character.
In addition to its sound performance, the Dunu Kima 2 boasts a premium build quality, attractive design, comfort during wear, and a comprehensive accessory package, all at an affordable price. In straightforward terms, the Dunu Kima 2 ranks among the finest earphones I have evaluated, offering an exceptionally high price-to-performance ratio, which leads me to believe it will achieve significant success.
The review sample was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review. I don't use affiliate links. The price of the Dunu Kima 2 is $119.99 and you can buy it from Dunu.
Disclaimer: For various Google indexing reasons, parts of this review have been processed with an automatic paragraph rewriting tool. However it reads exactly the same as the original content that is available in my website.
Dunu
Dunu has established itself as a leading brand in the HiFi audio sector, becoming synonymous with the Chi-Fi movement and pioneering the production of high-quality earphones at accessible prices. I will always remember the excitement I felt when I purchased the Dunu Titan T1, my first pair of premium earphones from China.
Dunu Kima 2
In 2022, Dunu introduced the Kima earphones, which achieved significant acclaim for their exceptional sound quality at a reasonable price point. The company has now launched an enhanced version of this successful in-ear monitor, known as the Kima 2. This new model offers substantial upgrades over its predecessor, featuring a state-of-the-art DLC composite dome dynamic driver and a more robust magnetic architecture.
Dunu has incorporated the same magnetic design found in their premium Falcon Ultra IEMs into the Kima 2. Additionally, the tuning of the Kima 2 is based on the highly regarded limited edition Vernus IEMs, which garnered considerable attention from audiophiles. Dunu has refined this tuning profile to further enhance the performance of the Kima 2.
The two versions
The Dunu Kima 2 was introduced in two distinct variants: a standard model and a limited edition, which is restricted to 999 units. While both variants share identical tuning characteristics, they are differentiated by their finishes and accompanying accessories.
The limited edition features a luminous green hue with mirror-finished ear shells, contrasting with the smooth-matte silver finish of the standard model. The accessories are largely the same, with the exception of the carrying case; the limited edition comes with a high-quality pouch bag, whereas the standard version is packaged in a classic-style carrying case with a side zipper. Both models are available at a price of $119.99.
Non Audio stuff
The ear shells are constructed from durable stainless steel, utilizing a sandblasting technique for the standard version and a mirror-finishing process for the limited edition. The faceplates are designed with a multi-faceted cut that creates a captivating interplay of light and shadow, which is particularly pronounced in the limited edition.
The limited edition boasts a more extravagant appearance, likely to draw significant attention, while some individuals may prefer the understated elegance of the standard version. It is also important to note that the mirror-polished surfaces of the limited edition tend to attract fingerprints, necessitating regular maintenance. The Kima 2 is exceptionally crafted, and its quality greatly exceeds its reasonable price.
The ear-shells are designed to be both compact and lightweight, featuring a shallow contour that, when paired with the moderately extended sound tubes, ensures a comfortable and secure fit. Users can enjoy wearing the Kima 2 for extended periods without experiencing any discomfort, and the passive noise isolation is notably effective, particularly when utilizing the Dunu S&S ear-tips.
Cable and accessories
The cable accompanying the Kima 2 is among the finest I have encountered, regardless of the earphones' price point, and I would willingly invest $119.99 solely for the cable. It is constructed with four cores of mono-crystalline copper and silver-plated mono-crystalline copper wires, encased in a nylon shock-absorbing sleeve that enhances both durability and aesthetics.
This cable features a metallic splitter and a 2-pin interface with recessed sockets, ensuring added durability and a secure connection. Additionally, it incorporates Dunu’s patented Q-Lock Mini interchangeable termination plug system, which includes two plugs: 4.4mm and 3.5mm. The cable is designed for excellent handling, remaining tangle-free, lightweight, and compact, while also minimizing microphonic noise.
The limited edition is accompanied by a premium carrying pouch-bag, while the standard version features a side zippered carrying case. Additionally, both versions are supplied with a smaller carrying pouch, a shirt clip, a cleaning brush, and four varieties of ear-tips, as depicted in the accompanying image. This comprehensive bundle is seldom available at such a competitive price.
Drivability
The Dunu Kima 2 features impedance and sensitivity ratings of 20Ω and 108dB/mW, respectively, making it relatively easy to drive and less susceptible to source noise. It performs adequately with USB DAC dongles and demonstrates significantly improved performance when paired with higher-quality sources such as the FiiO M23 and the iBasso DX180, which were primarily utilized during the review.
Listening impressions
Upon first listening to the Kima 2, the term "balanced" immediately comes to mind, and this initial impression only intensifies over time. The Kima 2 exhibits nearly flawless tuning, featuring a neutral low-end, a prominent mid-range with a slight emphasis on the upper mids, and a treble that is both smooth and vibrant. The sound is distinguished by remarkable tonal accuracy across the entire frequency spectrum, accompanied by a timbre that is strikingly natural and lifelike.
The tonal coherence of the Kima 2 is exceptional, surpassing what multi-driver configurations within the same category can aspire to achieve. Its sound possesses an organic and lifelike quality, devoid of any discernible artificiality. The Kima 2 is rich in vibrant harmonies, with music flowing effortlessly like spring water; voices resonate authentically, and instruments are rendered with remarkable realism. This creates a profound connection for the listener, who feels immersed in the music as if participating in a live concert rather than merely listening through earphones.
Moreover, the overall technical performance is more than adequate for discerning listeners, while the Kima 2 also delivers an enjoyable and satisfying experience across various musical genres. It stands as a versatile earphone that is likely to be appreciated by a wide audience, except for those who favor overly exaggerated or excessively mainstream sound profiles.
The low-frequency response is optimally tuned, featuring commendable sub-bass extension and a balanced bass profile that avoids any pronounced mid-bass enhancement or drastic tonal alterations. The inherent tonal quality of all lower-pitched instruments is preserved, and the transition to the mid-range occurs smoothly, free from any additional coloration of the sound.
The bass performance is distinguished by remarkable clarity and layering, even when handling the most challenging tracks within this category. It is characterized by speed, precision, and control, devoid of any signs of bloating or resonant artifacts. While the textures may not be overwhelmingly rich or visceral, they maintain a level of fullness, and the physical impact and punch can be notably impressive.
The mid-range exhibits a harmonious balance, characterized by a slight warmth that is both rich and captivating. It neither feels subdued nor overly pronounced, presenting a refined auditory experience that is both musical and lifelike. The tonal accuracy remains commendable, with the Kima 2 offering equal reverence to both vocal and instrumental elements. Overtones and fundamental tones intertwine beautifully, creating a vibrant and resonant sound that avoids any elements of listener fatigue. While the Kima 2 may not be a powerhouse in technical specifications, it certainly does not fall short in clarity and resolution.
The treble exhibits a vibrant and radiant quality while maintaining a smooth, courteous, and forgiving character, without sacrificing definition and clarity. The Kima 2 reveals a significant amount of inner detail, albeit subtly, ensuring that it does not come across as overly analytical. This earphone distinctly avoids a clinical or sterile sound profile; the higher frequencies are devoid of harshness, excessive brightness, or any metallic artificiality. While some listeners may miss some energy and brightness, the majority will appreciate its natural tonal quality and recognize the sound's coherence, as well as the skillful integration of the treble with the lower frequencies.
The soundstage is unexpectedly expansive and airy, featuring a naturally broadened width, though it lacks depth layering and a sense of holographic presence. The overall impression is that of a flat, horizontally oriented soundstage, yet the projection occurs outside the head, positioned at the front of the listener's face, with imaging that is notably strong for this category.
Comparison with the FiiO FD15
The FiiO FD15, priced at $30 more, stands out as my preferred single dynamic driver earphone within a specific price range due to its remarkable tonal accuracy and realistic timbre.
Both earphones exhibit nearly identical sound profiles, with only slight variations. The FD15 offers a deeper bass response and is tuned more neutrally in the lower frequencies, while it presents a slightly more pronounced midrange and a less extended treble. They both excel in tonal accuracy and timbre realism, with neither being technically superior to the other. Both are equally musical and engaging, with the primary distinction being that the FiiO has a drier sound compared to the Kima 2, which is characterized by a lusher and more organic quality. I genuinely appreciate both models, as they rank among my top earphones.
In terms of physical attributes, both earphones provide a comfortable fit and exhibit high-quality construction. They are well-equipped with accessories; however, the plastic case of the FD15 is of lesser quality compared to the premium carrying case offered with both the standard and limited editions of the Kima 2. Additionally, the cable of the Kima 2 is softer and lighter than that of the FD15, which benefits from the inclusion of three sound tuning tubes.
Conclusion
The Dunu Kima 2 has quickly established itself as one of my preferred earphones, thanks to its remarkable tonal accuracy and realistic timbre. I am confident that anyone who appreciates these qualities will feel the same. While some may perceive a deficiency in treble brilliance or technical capabilities, the majority will likely value the earphones' rich musicality and laid-back character.
In addition to its sound performance, the Dunu Kima 2 boasts a premium build quality, attractive design, comfort during wear, and a comprehensive accessory package, all at an affordable price. In straightforward terms, the Dunu Kima 2 ranks among the finest earphones I have evaluated, offering an exceptionally high price-to-performance ratio, which leads me to believe it will achieve significant success.
The review sample was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review. I don't use affiliate links. The price of the Dunu Kima 2 is $119.99 and you can buy it from Dunu.
Disclaimer: For various Google indexing reasons, parts of this review have been processed with an automatic paragraph rewriting tool. However it reads exactly the same as the original content that is available in my website.
DUNU Kima 2 Review!
Video review here
Good day! After 5 days of casual and critical listening, here’s my written review for the Dunu Kima 2. Ear-friendly reference!
========================================================================
Disclaimer:
- I don’t read FR graphs. I only use my ears, as earphones should be used.
- Dunu sent this unit to me in an exchange for an honest, independent review. Rest assured that this review will do its best to devoid from any bias/es as much as possible.
- The following remarks and observations shall be made and owned only by me.
- No monetary compensation is/was involved before, during, and after the period of creation of this review.
- Your mileage may (and always, will) vary.
Burn-in time: 4-8 hours per day, 5 days.
Source/s used:
- - Non-HiFi smartphone (Infinix Note 12 G96), PC.
- - Tanchjim Space DAC
- - Fosi Audio SK02 USB DAC
- - Kiwi Ears Allegro Mini DAC
- - Aiwa XP-V710C CD Player (12 sec. EASS)
- - Sony Xperia X Compact
- - Local Files via Foobar, YouTube Music, Deezer, and Qobuz with UAPP.
========================================================================
Sound signature:
- The Dunu Kima 2 is a neutral-sounding IEM that incorporates a bit of warmth to the overall sound, making it very palatable and versatile to most ears. However, this “warmth” isn’t obvious at first, unless compared to a flat-sounding IEM.
- This is definitely not for bassheads, that’s for sure, but that doesn’t mean that the Kima 2’s bass lacks in some genres - in fact, it never lacked throughout my test tracks, even for those ears that are not into the audiophile hobby that I have used this with. This region of Kima 2 is neutral - linear even, in presence, with a slight midbass dominance. Attack and decay slightly leans to the faster side of the spectrum, and shows a good amount of punch, texture, and thickness in any genre and setup I pair it with.
- In my humble opinion, this is where the Kima 2 shines - its mids. Everything sounds so open, lush, “cohesive”, while maintaining a decent amount of detail. Lower mids exhibit a tinge of warmth, making male vocals, and instruments in this region, exhibit a slight amount of thickness. Upper mids are in a nutshell, neutral in presence, with a slight forwardness in vocals, exhibiting very good amount of clarity, air, and sparkle. This region, along with the treble, also do not exhibit any form of unnatural peaks and harshness, making it a very, very safe yet non-lacking recommendation for everyone under 200 USD.
- When it comes to the treble, it is decently extended without sounding dark nor bright. Some people in this hobby call it “natural” in extension, if you’re into that jargon. Cymbal crashes and splashes are decent in amount and emphasis, making it very pleasing to listen for long periods. Detail retrieval is average at best for its asking price, rendering most of the nuances and important details in a track easily.
- Let me say this first - this isn’t the sharpest tool in the shed that I have heard under 200 USD, but that doesn’t mean that this is underwhelming either. I can confidently say that the Kima 2’s technicalities fall within the “better ones” I have heard under 200USD, even surpassing some of those multi-driver IEMs I have heard within the price range. Even if we are not comparing, The Kima 2’s technical chops aren’t that far from its excellent technical performance. The soundstage is quite wide, with a good amount of height and depth. Separation and layering is average for its price, with very minimal congestion on some heavy passages. Imaging is precise and does not have any problem with rendering positions and spaces of vocals and instruments clearly.
Other IEM Comparisons!
NF Acous NM20
- The NF Acous NM20 is a brighter, v-shaped sounding IEM and is thinner in sound character when compared to the Dunu Kima 2. While the NM20 focuses on the technical chops and its capability to do professional studio monitoring, the Kima 2 present itself as an IEM that are used mainly for casual, long-listening sessions while not skimping or compromising on technical performance. Upper frequencies are also brighter on the NM20 when compared.
- The Kotori Audio Zephyr is a flatter, transparent-sounding IEM that is unforgiving on poorly recorded tracks and poorly implemented setups, while the Dunu Kima 2 is a neutral-warm sounding IEM that excels more on casual listening sessions, when compared. Technical chops is also noticeably better and more incisive on the Zephyr, while the Kima 2 keeps it decent and “gets the job done” at most.
- The Rose Technics QT9 MK3 is a u-shaped, bright sounding IEM that emphasizes more its overall treble quality, while the Dunu Kima 2 keeps things neutral-warm. Overall treble is definitely better on the QT9 MK3, but slightly suffers BA Timbre on certain instances, which can be a deal breaker to some, while the Kima 2 keeps it safe and palatable to most ears. Technical chops is also better on the QT9 MK3, but the Kima 2 isn’t totally behind when compared.
- The Kiwi Ears KE4 is a thicker, warmer, balanced-sounding IEM that follows the “meta” target, while the Dunu Kima 2 sticks on its reliable, neutral-warm sound signature. Treble quality is slightly better on the Kima 2 because it is mildly extended and does not suffer any form of driver timbre when compared. Overall technical chops is slightly better on the KE4, but not far from what the Kima 2 can do, despite their noticeable price difference.
Pros:
- “One of the best” neutral, smooth-sounding IEMs under 200 USD!
- Neutral sound profile, with a bit of warmth!
- Cohesive, “easy-to-listen-to” sound character.
- Punchy, detailed bass response!
- Open, well-controlled mids!
- Non-fatiguing upper frequencies!
- Above-average soundstage, in terms of height and depth.
- Very good fit, comfort, and isolation!
- Sleek, durable build quality!
- Modular, durable cable design!
- Non-tangling, sleek yet practical cable!
- Probably the most generous IEM in terms of overall included accessories!
- Easy to drive, but definitely scales well with powerful source!
- Not the most “technical” IEM I’ve heard under 200 USD (not really a con or problem, but moreof a nitpick)
- There isn’t really a con/negative input I could jot down here that does not involve any sound signature preferences/bias.
Verdict
I can confidently say that the Dunu Kima 2 can be everyone’s new option for a neutral, almost reference sounding IEM under 200 USD. Based on my experience, it has been a while since I looked for an Etymotic ER2SE/XR alternative that can be worn by everyone without experiencing the “Etymotic fit”. Its timbre/tonality is by far the “best” I have heard of under 200 USD, if and only if we are talking about neutral-sounding sets, due to its cohesiveness. I wholeheartedly recommend the Dunu Kima 2 as one of the remarkable and better neutral-sounding sets that you can consider and look for under 200 USD. Thank you for being remarkable and ear-friendly, Dunu!
========================================================================
Pairing recommendations:
- Source: The Dunu Kima 2 is fairly easy to drive and will sound fine most of the time when plugged directly on a smartphone or laptop. However, I recommend to pair this with a dedicated DAC with at least 2VRMs of power, for better experience.
- Eartips: The eartips are plentiful and excellent in quality for you to choose from. You may still use your preferred eartips.
- Cable: Cable is practical, surprisingly non-tangling, and modular. You may still use your preferred cable.
Non-affiliated link here: https://www.dunu-topsound.com/product-page/kima-2
Additional Photos Here:
★ Introduction :-
Dunu is my personal favorite chi-fi brand. I have used several of their budget dd sets before and several of the flagship lineup were included in that list. Since the company started its journey in 2006, they have been able to establish themselves as a top IEM manufacturer by using premium materials in their products as well as emphasizing on R&D. The reputation of their in-house developed dynamic drivers continues to grow, which has brought dunu to the next level. Dunu Kima 2 is a newly released IEM that comes with a very reasonable price tag. I have been using it regularly for quite a few weeks. So, today I'll mainly try to represent my complete experience
about it.
★ Disclaimer :-
This review unit was sent to me directly from @DUNU-Topsound. I had no financial agreement with them to promote their product. So, the entire opinion of this review is completely my personal.
★ Box Content at a Glance :-
The Dunu Kima 2 IEM comes with a pretty big pink colored box. I am sure that the accessories available out of the box will surprise anyone. Dunu has always provided quality accessories with their IEMs and this is no exception. If you open the box, you will see at the beginning an acrylic stand made of wifu's artwork, which looks quite attractive to be honest. Apart from that, a very large carrying case of light white color, four types of different quality eartips of different sizes, nice braided cable and some paperwork.
1. A pair of Dunu Kima 2 IEM ×1
2. Four types of different size eartips
3. High quality braided cable with moduler jack system
4. A large carrying pouch ×1
5. Cleaning brush ×1
6. Some extra paperworks & acrylic stand
★ Specifications :-
Model: KIMA 2
Driver: External Magnetic DLC Composite Diaphragm Dynamic Driver
Net Weight: Approximately 10.5g (per side)
Frequency Response: 5Hz - 40kHZ
Impedance: 20Ω
Sensitivity: 108 dB/mW(@ 1 kHz)；125 dB/Vrms (@ 1 kHz)
THD: <0.3% @ 1 kHZ
Shell Material: S316 Stainless Steel
Cable: Four-Core Single-Crystal copper and Silver-Plated OCC Cable
Cable Length: 1.2 m ± 0.1 m
Connector: 0.78 mm 2 Pin
Plug:Q-Lock Mini interchangeable Plug System,Includes Two Plugs(3.5 mm Single-Ended, 4.4 mm Balanced)
★ Design, Build Quality & Comfort :-
Talking about the design, kima 2 is available in two different color variants. The regular variant is of standard silver color which doesn't look very eye-catching, but there is another limited edition which is of green color and glossy finish is given on the faceplate portion of the shell so it looks very premium. The design language is very similar to the previous model. As the unit in my hand is a regular variant, I am not a big fan of its design lol. On the other hand, kima 2 is simply excellent in build quality. Because its fully metal constructed shell is durable enough with a very perfect finishing on the surface which gives a solid feel even when held in hand. There is no room to complain in this build section. Also fit & comfort was pretty good too, but that's why I would never call it super comfortable. In terms of sound isolation, this set is not so good, which is about average. I personally used dunu candy eartips with kima 2 but could not get a perfect seal in my ears so most of the time I used divinus velvet tips which performed well with this set. The interesting thing is that those whose ears can create a good seal with candy eartips & S&s eartips will not need to use aftermarket eartips because these are good enough quality tips that are provided in the box of dunu kima 2. The carrying pouch of this set is attractive and practical at the same time. A bit large in size, though there is enough space inside to carry the IEM and ensure it stays secure. Stock cable will undoubtedly be its biggest strength. 4 core silver plated monocrystalline copper cable uses with high quality rubber coated from the ear hook area to the splitter portion where there is a recessed 2pin connector and the remaining part is covered with nylon braid which increases the robustness & longevity of the cable. Also added to the end of the cable is the Q-lock mini modular jack system which provides the benefits of 3.5mm single end as well as 4.4mm bal termination.
★ Sound Aspect :-
In Kima2 dunu used their customized single dd modeled after their eclipse driver. Dunu claims that they have now used the same magnetic flux density circuit system as the Falcon Ultra so that it can get a sound level close to that of the Falcon Ultra and at the same time be quite efficient. I don't really get the sound performance of the Falcon Ultra, it seems to be quite power efficient and the interesting thing is that the eclipse driver is usually more eartips sensitive and it has the same characteristics.The Kima 2 is basically a v shape tuned set where the bass and treble are more balanced and the mids are a bit further back.Tonality of this set was slight neutral with a hint of warm-ish touch, Which is able to satisfy most of the listeners.
Credit : @aftersound
★ Gear used :-
1. Questyle Audio Engineering CMA Fifteen
2 . Xduoo xd05 bal 2 (Se & Bal both)
3 . Cayin Ru7 (Se & Bal both)
4 . Questyle m15 (Se & Bal both)
5 . Quloos Mc01 (SE & Bal both)
6 . Epz Tp50 (Se & Bal both)
7 . Fosi Audio Ds1 (Se & Bal both)
8 . Fosi Audio Ds2 ~ 2024 (Se & Bal both)
9 . Roseselsa Rs9039 (Se & Bal both)
10 . Blon V1 (Se & Bal both)
Kima 2 is a set of 20Ω impedance whose sensitivity level is 108dB, so not very powerful amplification is needed to drive it, I got decent loudness from the phone's 3.5mm port, but if a good quality dac amp or portable player is used, then it gets scaled up with the sources (neutral-bright)and becomes better sounding. However, the best pairing I've found with CMA Fifteen. Good stage depth & dynamics, improved imaging even a bit more enhanced micro detailing capability and superb tonal balancing.
Now, I will discuss the sound in detail, I will start with the Low end of this set, i.e. the bass....
★ The Bass :-
Kima 2 shines the most in the bass section. There is good extension from sub bass to mid bass. The sub bass rumble here tries to lend more depth to the sound which can sometimes seem a little too much, I personally don't like over boosted sub bass as it hurts the lower mids. It has a tendency to bleed mildly with mids due to the relatively more presence sub bass, but it doesn't always happen, it was noticeable only in the case of bass heavy genres. Mid bass has a very nice dominance, although the texture is a bit less, the punch is on the heavier side which has managed to retain enough fullness in the body of the bass. This set has handled the bass controls fairly well which will be most liked by maximum folk. I believe that kima 2 will not disappoint if you don't expect too much bass head level bass performance from here.
★ The Mids :-
This set plays the most admirable role in the midrange. To express naturally, its character is very soothing & lush-ier type where there is sufficient warmth touch in the lower mids which makes the male vocal full bodied. Male & female both vocals managed to maintain decent contrast most of the time. However, I noticed that some female vocals were thinner out in a few tracks. Due to this, there is a lack of emotional expression of vocal craft. Besides, the Upper mids region was completely clean & enough textured and at the same time slightly forward, there was no unpleasant incident like harshness or overshadowing, so the difference between vocal & instruments was able to be portrayed very nicely. The midrange tonality is not completely natural, but I did not notice anything unpleasing. It can be said that it was engaging enough, at least it is offering the better midrange at its price point.
★ The Treble :-
The treble section can be a hit or miss type for many. The treble section is smooth but has decent clarity and detailed presentation. The upper registers were not too elevated due to which there is not enough air and sparkle, but it does not seem too dull or dark. Treble response & detail retrieval was of mediocre level but no unwanted sibilance or harshness was found but there was roll-off at upper treble slight margin. 3k-5k even 8k was handled very nicely in kima 2 which is why there was no peakiness to say. The condition of lower treble was quite good where detail and micro detail was noticeable. Cymbals & string instruments didn't seem too lustrous but were acceptable. For treble head folks, this set will not be able to bring complete satisfaction. Who are used to the sparkle and more bright nature of treble. Those who are fairly treble sensitive will have the most fun factor from here for longer listening.
★ Technicalities :-
It could not give outstanding results in technical ability. Sound stage height was better than average and depth was also very good. On the other hand, imaging capability just good, but the instruments placement was not exactly at the pin point, but I expected something better. This set will not be the most analytical or highly technical in any way. It has more push towards fun factor than technical ability. Resolution & detail wise it is decent enough, as a single dd set it has managed to give good results. Dunu does not leave any question about Tonality & timbral accuracy, in short it offers the best tonality in this budget and there is no shrillness in timbre which really surprised me. Also, the amount of micro detail is small but macro detail is lacking. Overall, if competitive gaming is not prioritized, it can be a safe option.
Overall rating out of 5 is what I would give
Bass : 4. 2/5
Mids : 4.5/5
Treble : 4/5
Technicalities : 3.8/5
Dynamics & speed : 4/5
Build & Aesthetics : 4/5
★ Comparison :-
~ Dunu Kima 2 Vs Nf Acous Nm20 ~
Nm20 is another single dd offering in similar price category. Its build quality and stock accessories are also average, nm20 bright v shape tuned set but kima2 is slightly on warmer side. Notwithstanding nm20's sub bass region roll-off, mid bass was strong with grainy treble and unrealistic tonality & timbre, Kima 2 offers more warmth and a smoother treble performance. On the other side kima 2 is far ahead in these aspects even sound more fuller than nm20. Technically kima 2 is not very strong but in terms of overall musical appearance it will undoubtedly be the real winner.
~ Dunu Kima 2 Vs Dunu Falcon Ultra ~
Falcon Ultra more pricey than kima 2. It has two effective tuning nozzles which can give different test of sound. The build & design was also quite solid and the accessories are also better. Ultra will get more numbers in its midrange compared to kima2 and has been able to keep a more matured role in tonal balancing, it will also be ahead in detail retrieval. In sound isolation, both gave average results, but technically not very impressive. Falcon Ultra managed to deliver more polished sound, It can be a worthy upgrade if you want more fun & engagement in the sound than Kima 2, so it is still far ahead than this one.
★ Conclusion :-
In the current market, the under 150$ category has become very competitive with the IEM offerings of various chi-fi brands. Kima 2 is a new player in this budget game which comes with good sound and value for money tag. This set comes with a complete package considering the budget, so if someone purchases it, there will be no need to upgrade anything extra. I can definitely recommend this set as sound wise it will easily find its way into the wish list of many unless one is extremely treble head.
I've provided the purchase link below for everyone convenience
Dunu official Ali express store (link isn’t affiliated)
Dunu is my personal favorite chi-fi brand. I have used several of their budget dd sets before and several of the flagship lineup were included in that list. Since the company started its journey in 2006, they have been able to establish themselves as a top IEM manufacturer by using premium materials in their products as well as emphasizing on R&D. The reputation of their in-house developed dynamic drivers continues to grow, which has brought dunu to the next level. Dunu Kima 2 is a newly released IEM that comes with a very reasonable price tag. I have been using it regularly for quite a few weeks. So, today I'll mainly try to represent my complete experience
about it.
★ Disclaimer :-
This review unit was sent to me directly from @DUNU-Topsound. I had no financial agreement with them to promote their product. So, the entire opinion of this review is completely my personal.
★ Box Content at a Glance :-
The Dunu Kima 2 IEM comes with a pretty big pink colored box. I am sure that the accessories available out of the box will surprise anyone. Dunu has always provided quality accessories with their IEMs and this is no exception. If you open the box, you will see at the beginning an acrylic stand made of wifu's artwork, which looks quite attractive to be honest. Apart from that, a very large carrying case of light white color, four types of different quality eartips of different sizes, nice braided cable and some paperwork.
1. A pair of Dunu Kima 2 IEM ×1
2. Four types of different size eartips
3. High quality braided cable with moduler jack system
4. A large carrying pouch ×1
5. Cleaning brush ×1
6. Some extra paperworks & acrylic stand
★ Specifications :-
Model: KIMA 2
Driver: External Magnetic DLC Composite Diaphragm Dynamic Driver
Net Weight: Approximately 10.5g (per side)
Frequency Response: 5Hz - 40kHZ
Impedance: 20Ω
Sensitivity: 108 dB/mW(@ 1 kHz)；125 dB/Vrms (@ 1 kHz)
THD: <0.3% @ 1 kHZ
Shell Material: S316 Stainless Steel
Cable: Four-Core Single-Crystal copper and Silver-Plated OCC Cable
Cable Length: 1.2 m ± 0.1 m
Connector: 0.78 mm 2 Pin
Plug:Q-Lock Mini interchangeable Plug System,Includes Two Plugs(3.5 mm Single-Ended, 4.4 mm Balanced)
★ Design, Build Quality & Comfort :-
Talking about the design, kima 2 is available in two different color variants. The regular variant is of standard silver color which doesn't look very eye-catching, but there is another limited edition which is of green color and glossy finish is given on the faceplate portion of the shell so it looks very premium. The design language is very similar to the previous model. As the unit in my hand is a regular variant, I am not a big fan of its design lol. On the other hand, kima 2 is simply excellent in build quality. Because its fully metal constructed shell is durable enough with a very perfect finishing on the surface which gives a solid feel even when held in hand. There is no room to complain in this build section. Also fit & comfort was pretty good too, but that's why I would never call it super comfortable. In terms of sound isolation, this set is not so good, which is about average. I personally used dunu candy eartips with kima 2 but could not get a perfect seal in my ears so most of the time I used divinus velvet tips which performed well with this set. The interesting thing is that those whose ears can create a good seal with candy eartips & S&s eartips will not need to use aftermarket eartips because these are good enough quality tips that are provided in the box of dunu kima 2. The carrying pouch of this set is attractive and practical at the same time. A bit large in size, though there is enough space inside to carry the IEM and ensure it stays secure. Stock cable will undoubtedly be its biggest strength. 4 core silver plated monocrystalline copper cable uses with high quality rubber coated from the ear hook area to the splitter portion where there is a recessed 2pin connector and the remaining part is covered with nylon braid which increases the robustness & longevity of the cable. Also added to the end of the cable is the Q-lock mini modular jack system which provides the benefits of 3.5mm single end as well as 4.4mm bal termination.
★ Sound Aspect :-
In Kima2 dunu used their customized single dd modeled after their eclipse driver. Dunu claims that they have now used the same magnetic flux density circuit system as the Falcon Ultra so that it can get a sound level close to that of the Falcon Ultra and at the same time be quite efficient. I don't really get the sound performance of the Falcon Ultra, it seems to be quite power efficient and the interesting thing is that the eclipse driver is usually more eartips sensitive and it has the same characteristics.The Kima 2 is basically a v shape tuned set where the bass and treble are more balanced and the mids are a bit further back.Tonality of this set was slight neutral with a hint of warm-ish touch, Which is able to satisfy most of the listeners.
Credit : @aftersound
★ Gear used :-
1. Questyle Audio Engineering CMA Fifteen
2 . Xduoo xd05 bal 2 (Se & Bal both)
3 . Cayin Ru7 (Se & Bal both)
4 . Questyle m15 (Se & Bal both)
5 . Quloos Mc01 (SE & Bal both)
6 . Epz Tp50 (Se & Bal both)
7 . Fosi Audio Ds1 (Se & Bal both)
8 . Fosi Audio Ds2 ~ 2024 (Se & Bal both)
9 . Roseselsa Rs9039 (Se & Bal both)
10 . Blon V1 (Se & Bal both)
Kima 2 is a set of 20Ω impedance whose sensitivity level is 108dB, so not very powerful amplification is needed to drive it, I got decent loudness from the phone's 3.5mm port, but if a good quality dac amp or portable player is used, then it gets scaled up with the sources (neutral-bright)and becomes better sounding. However, the best pairing I've found with CMA Fifteen. Good stage depth & dynamics, improved imaging even a bit more enhanced micro detailing capability and superb tonal balancing.
Now, I will discuss the sound in detail, I will start with the Low end of this set, i.e. the bass....
★ The Bass :-
Kima 2 shines the most in the bass section. There is good extension from sub bass to mid bass. The sub bass rumble here tries to lend more depth to the sound which can sometimes seem a little too much, I personally don't like over boosted sub bass as it hurts the lower mids. It has a tendency to bleed mildly with mids due to the relatively more presence sub bass, but it doesn't always happen, it was noticeable only in the case of bass heavy genres. Mid bass has a very nice dominance, although the texture is a bit less, the punch is on the heavier side which has managed to retain enough fullness in the body of the bass. This set has handled the bass controls fairly well which will be most liked by maximum folk. I believe that kima 2 will not disappoint if you don't expect too much bass head level bass performance from here.
★ The Mids :-
This set plays the most admirable role in the midrange. To express naturally, its character is very soothing & lush-ier type where there is sufficient warmth touch in the lower mids which makes the male vocal full bodied. Male & female both vocals managed to maintain decent contrast most of the time. However, I noticed that some female vocals were thinner out in a few tracks. Due to this, there is a lack of emotional expression of vocal craft. Besides, the Upper mids region was completely clean & enough textured and at the same time slightly forward, there was no unpleasant incident like harshness or overshadowing, so the difference between vocal & instruments was able to be portrayed very nicely. The midrange tonality is not completely natural, but I did not notice anything unpleasing. It can be said that it was engaging enough, at least it is offering the better midrange at its price point.
★ The Treble :-
The treble section can be a hit or miss type for many. The treble section is smooth but has decent clarity and detailed presentation. The upper registers were not too elevated due to which there is not enough air and sparkle, but it does not seem too dull or dark. Treble response & detail retrieval was of mediocre level but no unwanted sibilance or harshness was found but there was roll-off at upper treble slight margin. 3k-5k even 8k was handled very nicely in kima 2 which is why there was no peakiness to say. The condition of lower treble was quite good where detail and micro detail was noticeable. Cymbals & string instruments didn't seem too lustrous but were acceptable. For treble head folks, this set will not be able to bring complete satisfaction. Who are used to the sparkle and more bright nature of treble. Those who are fairly treble sensitive will have the most fun factor from here for longer listening.
★ Technicalities :-
It could not give outstanding results in technical ability. Sound stage height was better than average and depth was also very good. On the other hand, imaging capability just good, but the instruments placement was not exactly at the pin point, but I expected something better. This set will not be the most analytical or highly technical in any way. It has more push towards fun factor than technical ability. Resolution & detail wise it is decent enough, as a single dd set it has managed to give good results. Dunu does not leave any question about Tonality & timbral accuracy, in short it offers the best tonality in this budget and there is no shrillness in timbre which really surprised me. Also, the amount of micro detail is small but macro detail is lacking. Overall, if competitive gaming is not prioritized, it can be a safe option.
Overall rating out of 5 is what I would give
Bass : 4. 2/5
Mids : 4.5/5
Treble : 4/5
Technicalities : 3.8/5
Dynamics & speed : 4/5
Build & Aesthetics : 4/5
★ Comparison :-
~ Dunu Kima 2 Vs Nf Acous Nm20 ~
Nm20 is another single dd offering in similar price category. Its build quality and stock accessories are also average, nm20 bright v shape tuned set but kima2 is slightly on warmer side. Notwithstanding nm20's sub bass region roll-off, mid bass was strong with grainy treble and unrealistic tonality & timbre, Kima 2 offers more warmth and a smoother treble performance. On the other side kima 2 is far ahead in these aspects even sound more fuller than nm20. Technically kima 2 is not very strong but in terms of overall musical appearance it will undoubtedly be the real winner.
~ Dunu Kima 2 Vs Dunu Falcon Ultra ~
Falcon Ultra more pricey than kima 2. It has two effective tuning nozzles which can give different test of sound. The build & design was also quite solid and the accessories are also better. Ultra will get more numbers in its midrange compared to kima2 and has been able to keep a more matured role in tonal balancing, it will also be ahead in detail retrieval. In sound isolation, both gave average results, but technically not very impressive. Falcon Ultra managed to deliver more polished sound, It can be a worthy upgrade if you want more fun & engagement in the sound than Kima 2, so it is still far ahead than this one.
★ Conclusion :-
In the current market, the under 150$ category has become very competitive with the IEM offerings of various chi-fi brands. Kima 2 is a new player in this budget game which comes with good sound and value for money tag. This set comes with a complete package considering the budget, so if someone purchases it, there will be no need to upgrade anything extra. I can definitely recommend this set as sound wise it will easily find its way into the wish list of many unless one is extremely treble head.
I've provided the purchase link below for everyone convenience
Dunu official Ali express store (link isn’t affiliated)
DUNU Kima 2
Today we’re diving into the new DUNU Kima 2, successor to the DUNU Kima released back in late 2022. Priced at around $100, this single dynamic driver IEM showcases the technical prowess of a well-tuned, well-designed DD. A solid reference in the budget IEM arena, if you ask me.
I didn’t get to listen to the original Kima, so this review is based on a fresh experience. Let’s dive right in.
Unboxing
DUNU, a veteran in the audiophile scene, has made leaps in their unboxing experience over the years. The Kima 2 comes in a sleeved box, featuring a waifu on the front and tech specs on the back. They’ve added the Hi-Res logo for a touch of aural confidence and some design awards that, to be honest, don’t matter to me.
The black box design is neat, and the cover slides off easily. Inside, the IEMs are securely nestled in a foam cutout. Beneath that, you’ll find a DUNU acrylic stand, featuring the same waifu art. Similar to what Moondrop and Truthear have done, DUNU has tried incorporating some “waifu culture.” Thoughts?
Below this, there’s a large, fabric IEM case that houses an accessory pack, including various ear tips and a 4.4mm barrel plug for DUNU’s interchangeable plug. The 2-pin cable is also stored here, with excellent build quality that we’ll get into shortly.
They’ve included S&S ear tips and the Candy tips, which feel like an early Christmas gift—you know, the kind where you unwrap little presents and get ear tips instead.
Build Quality
The Kima 2 retains the sharply faceted metal chassis design of its predecessor, with “Kima 2” laser-engraved on the faceplate. The shell is sturdy and looks great, though the sharp edges make it prone to scuffs and dents. My unit already shows minor scuffs on the facet edges, which is a small but noticeable flaw. Other than that, the Kima 2 feels structurally sound.
The Kima 2’s cable is half fabric-sleeved below the y-splitter, with PVC sheathing above to reduce microphonics while providing comfort. The 2-pin connectors are elbow-angled, which is versatile and comfortable, although the molded plastic on the connectors can look a bit cheap due to visible seams.
The y-splitter and plug termination feature a metal knurling design, adding a nice touch of quality. The plug barrel unscrews, allowing for easy swaps between 3.5mm and 4.4mm terminations.
Overall, the build quality on the Kima 2 is solid, though a couple of aesthetic quirks are hard to unsee once noticed. Functionally, they’re great; these minor flaws don’t affect performance but might stand out for some users.
Sound
The Kima 2 features a warm-ish V-shaped signature, distinctively tuned in a way that feels very DUNU. With an elevated upper-mid presence and strong bass response, it achieves a coherent, cohesive sound.
This single DD IEM is technically strong for its price, with great detail retrieval. The tuning is versatile, fitting various music genres without sounding unnatural. While some might find the elevated upper mids a tad warm, I find it enhances vocals and instruments nicely without overdoing it.
The 4.4mm option is a nice touch, as more power brings out the IEM’s potential.
Bass
The Kima 2 doesn’t slam as hard as other single DD IEMs. It’s not basshead material; sub-bass and mid-bass are present without overpowering. The bass feels natural, clean, and avoids bloating the lower mids.
In terms of technicality, the bass has a smooth, natural decay with decent speed and detail, though bassheads might miss the visceral slam. Here, bass is more about rounding out the sound than demanding attention—a great choice for casual listeners looking to avoid bloated bass.
Midrange
The Kima 2’s midrange shines. Vocals are natural, clear, and stage well. They’re full-bodied, allowing for subtle detail representation, especially in vocal-heavy tracks.
There’s a slightly mid-forward presentation that some may find shouty on certain tracks, but it mostly boils down to personal preference. The vocal emphasis is impressive for a single DD handling the entire range.
Instrument separation is great too, with natural timbre and clarity that enhance accuracy. The mids have a warm character, which is worth noting depending on your preference for sound signatures.
Treble
The treble here is smooth and non-aggressive, contributing to the staging and an airy presence. While extension isn’t mind-blowing, it’s balanced for the price range.
The treble is non-sibilant, offering a relaxed listening experience that rounds out the frequency range nicely.
Soundstage
Width and Height: Kima 2’s soundstage offers great width and height, wider than most competitors in its range.
Depth and Positioning: Depth is decent, though not exceptional. Positional accuracy, however, is fantastic, allowing for accurate audio cue placement.
Comparisons
VS Meze Alba: Both IEMs use dynamic drivers but differ significantly in sound. The Alba leans towards a classic V-shape, whereas the Kima 2 has elevated upper mids.
The Alba is warmer and more relaxed, while the Kima 2 has higher resolution and is more engaging. Between the two, I’d choose Kima 2 if I wanted better resolution and engagement.
VS NF Acous NM20: The NF Acous NM20 also features a V-shape with elevated upper mids. However, NM20’s treble is a bit more aggressive while maintaining smoothness and high resolution.
Though the Kima 2 falls slightly behind in resolution compared to the NM20, its upper mids are more agreeable, making it a friendlier choice. While the NM20 offers superior resolution, the Kima 2 is a safer bet for more laid-back listening.
Rating
The Kima 2 is an excellent product from DUNU, well-balanced with an abundance of accessories. The waifu theme might appeal to some, but fortunately, the IEMs themselves are designed for everyday use without the “weeby” aesthetic.
Today we’re diving into the new DUNU Kima 2, successor to the DUNU Kima released back in late 2022. Priced at around $100, this single dynamic driver IEM showcases the technical prowess of a well-tuned, well-designed DD. A solid reference in the budget IEM arena, if you ask me.
I didn’t get to listen to the original Kima, so this review is based on a fresh experience. Let’s dive right in.
Unboxing
DUNU, a veteran in the audiophile scene, has made leaps in their unboxing experience over the years. The Kima 2 comes in a sleeved box, featuring a waifu on the front and tech specs on the back. They’ve added the Hi-Res logo for a touch of aural confidence and some design awards that, to be honest, don’t matter to me.
The black box design is neat, and the cover slides off easily. Inside, the IEMs are securely nestled in a foam cutout. Beneath that, you’ll find a DUNU acrylic stand, featuring the same waifu art. Similar to what Moondrop and Truthear have done, DUNU has tried incorporating some “waifu culture.” Thoughts?
Below this, there’s a large, fabric IEM case that houses an accessory pack, including various ear tips and a 4.4mm barrel plug for DUNU’s interchangeable plug. The 2-pin cable is also stored here, with excellent build quality that we’ll get into shortly.
They’ve included S&S ear tips and the Candy tips, which feel like an early Christmas gift—you know, the kind where you unwrap little presents and get ear tips instead.
Build Quality
The Kima 2 retains the sharply faceted metal chassis design of its predecessor, with “Kima 2” laser-engraved on the faceplate. The shell is sturdy and looks great, though the sharp edges make it prone to scuffs and dents. My unit already shows minor scuffs on the facet edges, which is a small but noticeable flaw. Other than that, the Kima 2 feels structurally sound.
The Kima 2’s cable is half fabric-sleeved below the y-splitter, with PVC sheathing above to reduce microphonics while providing comfort. The 2-pin connectors are elbow-angled, which is versatile and comfortable, although the molded plastic on the connectors can look a bit cheap due to visible seams.
The y-splitter and plug termination feature a metal knurling design, adding a nice touch of quality. The plug barrel unscrews, allowing for easy swaps between 3.5mm and 4.4mm terminations.
Overall, the build quality on the Kima 2 is solid, though a couple of aesthetic quirks are hard to unsee once noticed. Functionally, they’re great; these minor flaws don’t affect performance but might stand out for some users.
Sound
The Kima 2 features a warm-ish V-shaped signature, distinctively tuned in a way that feels very DUNU. With an elevated upper-mid presence and strong bass response, it achieves a coherent, cohesive sound.
This single DD IEM is technically strong for its price, with great detail retrieval. The tuning is versatile, fitting various music genres without sounding unnatural. While some might find the elevated upper mids a tad warm, I find it enhances vocals and instruments nicely without overdoing it.
The 4.4mm option is a nice touch, as more power brings out the IEM’s potential.
Bass
The Kima 2 doesn’t slam as hard as other single DD IEMs. It’s not basshead material; sub-bass and mid-bass are present without overpowering. The bass feels natural, clean, and avoids bloating the lower mids.
In terms of technicality, the bass has a smooth, natural decay with decent speed and detail, though bassheads might miss the visceral slam. Here, bass is more about rounding out the sound than demanding attention—a great choice for casual listeners looking to avoid bloated bass.
Midrange
The Kima 2’s midrange shines. Vocals are natural, clear, and stage well. They’re full-bodied, allowing for subtle detail representation, especially in vocal-heavy tracks.
There’s a slightly mid-forward presentation that some may find shouty on certain tracks, but it mostly boils down to personal preference. The vocal emphasis is impressive for a single DD handling the entire range.
Instrument separation is great too, with natural timbre and clarity that enhance accuracy. The mids have a warm character, which is worth noting depending on your preference for sound signatures.
Treble
The treble here is smooth and non-aggressive, contributing to the staging and an airy presence. While extension isn’t mind-blowing, it’s balanced for the price range.
The treble is non-sibilant, offering a relaxed listening experience that rounds out the frequency range nicely.
Soundstage
Width and Height: Kima 2’s soundstage offers great width and height, wider than most competitors in its range.
Depth and Positioning: Depth is decent, though not exceptional. Positional accuracy, however, is fantastic, allowing for accurate audio cue placement.
Comparisons
VS Meze Alba: Both IEMs use dynamic drivers but differ significantly in sound. The Alba leans towards a classic V-shape, whereas the Kima 2 has elevated upper mids.
The Alba is warmer and more relaxed, while the Kima 2 has higher resolution and is more engaging. Between the two, I’d choose Kima 2 if I wanted better resolution and engagement.
VS NF Acous NM20: The NF Acous NM20 also features a V-shape with elevated upper mids. However, NM20’s treble is a bit more aggressive while maintaining smoothness and high resolution.
Though the Kima 2 falls slightly behind in resolution compared to the NM20, its upper mids are more agreeable, making it a friendlier choice. While the NM20 offers superior resolution, the Kima 2 is a safer bet for more laid-back listening.
Rating
- Bass: Natural with organic decay – 7
- Midrange: Forward mids with great clarity – 7.5
- Treble: Smooth and airy – 7.5
- Resolution: Strong for its price – 7.5
- Soundstage: Good width, height, and positioning; slight depth limitation – 7
- Enjoyment Factor: The Kima 2 offers an enjoyable experience with ample accessories, making it feel like an early Christmas. – A
The Kima 2 is an excellent product from DUNU, well-balanced with an abundance of accessories. The waifu theme might appeal to some, but fortunately, the IEMs themselves are designed for everyday use without the “weeby” aesthetic.
DUNU KIMA 2 REVIEW: THE NEW REFERENCE NEUTRAL
WATCH FULL REVIEW HERE:
PROS:
- Best timbre under $200
- Reference-like neutral with a touch of warmth
- Treasure trove accessory and package inclusion
- Tight, linear but tactile bass
- Lush and open midrange
- Smooth but detailed treble
- Amazing build and fit
- Matte finish (biased)
- Scales well but sounds good on lower quality sources
CONS:
- Not the most technical sounding IEM in the price
- Not the most engaging IEM
- In-ear seal in subpar
WHO THIS UNIT IS FOR:
- People who like a reference-neutral tuned set
- People who want a very EQ-able IEM
- Timbreheads
- People who like a complete package
WHO THIS UNIT ISN’T FOR:
- People who want an engaging and fun IEM
- People who want an analytical or high detailed IEM
- People who want a superb sealing
- People who wants a snappier sounding set
GENRES:
- Jazz
- Vocal Pop
- R&B
- Ambient/Instrumental
SHORT REVIEW:
The Kima 2 is such a monumental IEM for me that it became my new 2024 target. A near perfect balance from bass to treble makes this a proper reference set for people like me who enjoys a warmer than flat signature. This is not for those looking for an engaging, fun or technical set, but is a set I can 100% recommend to anyone, especially those starting in audio in 2024 with a slightly deep pocket. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!FULL REVIEW
In the grand scheme of things, having a favorite IEM as a reviewer feels like the equivalent of choosing a political party. People will both praise you for having the same favorite IEM or call you a shill. And it’s not very often that I call something my favorite. For the longest time, Simgot’s EA500 has been my favorite IEM which was then replaced by the EA1000 which, is an improved version of the EA500. Does that make me a Simgot shill? Depends how you look at it.
But everyone once in a while, a set comes in with either a similar or a completely contrasting sound that breaks the mold of what I enjoy about IEMs. It started with the HiBy Zeta, then the CCA Hydro, then the Moritz Paradise. Now, the EA500 will be shaking in its place with the IEM of today’s review, the Dunu Kima 2.
DISCLAIMER: The Kima 2 was sent in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not paid or compensated to say anything about the product
WOULD YOU KIMA 2 NIGHT?
We’re all familiar with Dunu. I’m very familiar with Dunu. Heck, I vouch for most Dunu sets for how good value and well tuned most of their products are. They’re essentially the company that provides the best value in terms of overall experience out of all the companies that I’ve come across. I mean, who includes almost $30 worth of eartips on their $79 IEM? That’s just insanity.
But the Kima 2 is not $79. It’s $120. And $120 is where people get nitpicky about what they define as “good enough”. You can’t just have good accessories and be “good enough”. That’s the main complaint about the Titan S2, and that was only $79. So is the Kima 2 good enough, or can it be the best under $150?
UNBOXING
This is my first Dunu unboxing with a Waifu. Who knew! And it’s a damn good looking artwork too with the strong pink element dominating the very complex art piece. If only I knew what was about to come.
Here’s a full list of the inclusions:
- Dunu Kima IEMs
- Modular cable
- Carrying case
- A lot of eartips (you know how Dunu is)
- 3.5mm to 6.35mm adaptor
- Shirt Clip
- Acrylic stand
I mean, what do you expect at this point? I’m not gonna lie to you when I say that during my unboxing of this, I didn’t even bother to individually inspect each eartip anymore because there’s just so much damn eartips. It’s overwhelming, but a welcome inclusion.
What surprised me is the inclusion of a really high quality acrylic stand. Granted, I struggled trying to get this to go on the stand. But once I did, I was just so impressed that they’d include something like this. Maybe a bit of shape contour would have made this the perfect photography buddy, but I can’t deny that Dunu has provided those waifu lovers something to share on a specific reddit board that I will choose not to name.
BUILD & FIT
While I tout Dunu for providing great accessories, I don’t think I’ve commended them enough on the ear pieces themselves. Dunu has always been at the forefront for metal built IEMs, even during their MMCX days with the OG Falcon Ultra.
But I think let’s give the Kima 2 a bit of backstory on its internals and tuning.
The Kima 2 was based on a set they released 2 years ago called the Vernus. This was a single DD priced at $220 and is closely related to the Falcon series in regards to its external appearance. And while I wasn’t able to try the Vernus, Dunu stated that it directly inspired the Kima 2’s tuning and, I believe, also the build. This also featured the ECLIPSƎ drivers, but the Kima 2 seems to have removed that from their marketing.
I mentioned this because there is a limited version of the Kima 2 that sports a somewhat similar green tint to the Vernus. It’s not quite moss green like the latter, but it’s a similar glossy finish that looks quite unique (but definitely finger print and scratch prone.
Thankfully, Dunu opted to use a matte finish on the regular version of the Kima 2 which I know many people will appreciate.
As for the quality of the build itself, this is what you’d expect from a top of the line all metal IEM. And yet this thing only costs $119. Granted, there have been all metal shells before and for much cheaper. But these remind me of the Moondrop Kato in many ways and I’m so glad that Dunu opted for that matte finish. It’s a very blocky and edgy shape that contrasts the bubbly and poppy look of the included waifu, but I know it’s not often that the IEM corresponds to the art.
One of the aspects that really blew me away was comfort. For an all metal IEM, this thing fit and sealed in my ear better than most resin made IEMs. The fit is deep but unintrusive, the inner shell sits perfectly in my ear and the shape is neither too large or small to cause discomfort. Plus, that all metal shell does not drag in my ears at all. I really can’t think of a con about the build and fit of the IEM at all.
As for the cable, this is the same one that they used on the Titan S2 and I have to say, this cable is growing on me. It’s surprisingly behave and the choice not to go paracord on the strands that lead to the ears is a great choice. Less problems down the line and no irritation that way. But I have to admit that those strands feel cheap and feel like they’d get stiff fast over time. Thicker strands suffer from this less, but that’s besides the point.
But once again, I will hype up Dunu’s usage of the Q-Lock Mini and how it’s genuinely the best modular system in the market right now. If Dunu and Effect audio could collaborate to make the best modular system from the interface to the jack, that would sell like hotcakes.
SOUND
Sound Signature
The Kima 2 features a linear low end, slightly boosted upper midrange and consistent brightness that makes this my new reference under $200. I’m not kidding, the tuning of the Kima 2 is near, if not, perfect to my ideal target and improves upon the set that previous held this title, the Celest Pandamon. But the best part is just how consistent the timbre of this thing is. Under $200, I cannot think of a single IEM with better balance of timbre and technicalities.
Source Pairing
One of the benefits of a set like this is that it’ll sound pretty damn good on most sources. From lower powered and cheaper sources to more expensive and higher quality sources, it’ll sound damn good. Heck, this sounds good on my VE Avani which most IEMs nowadays can’t really do. But where this really shines is with good and clean power. Tighter bass, cleaner mids and more transient treble makes this arguably one of the best IEMs to pair with whatever source in my collection.Volume
This level of neutrality and balance also makes this probably one of the best scaling IEMs in my collection. While it’s no Hades or Legato, these can be cranked to high volume levels with minimal harshness and a fuller and more immersive sound. I found myself cranking the volume quite high on these, but chose to go lower since they sound pretty damn good on lower listening levels.Bass
As you might expect from a set that follows my reference neutral target, the bass of this is linear with a bit of a midbass kick. It’s not as big of a kick as other warmer but still linear sets like the EA500, EA1000 or even the Pandamon. But it’s present and my goodness is it tight. I remember when I was reading about the HZSound Heart Mirror years back and people touted the Heart Mirror for how tight the bass was. That could probably be due to the fact that there was barely any, but the Kima 2 proves that you can get good tight bass with enough energy.That being said, this is not a bassy set. Nor is it even a relatively warm set. I know because on the tracks that I listened to that were often doused in brightness like Come On, Eileen, these didn’t really give the track note weight. Granted, this also made it absolutely perfect for any track that emphasized bass quality over quantity or just has too much low end to boot. Take IV of Spades’ Hey Barbara and that thick and lumpy bass line at the start by Mr. Zild Benitez. Do I hate that track in most listening impressions? Yeah. But not the Kima 2. But again, don’t expect this to rattle your head. It’s clean, tight and well-extended without much of an engaging weight to kick your head in
Mids
But what’ll kick your head in is how immaculate the midrange of this is. Anything track where the midrange is the focus is brought to its best tonal quality on the Kima 2. From low male vocals like Jacob Collier to the brightest reaches of Mica of Magdalena Bay, the Kima 2 delivers exactly the kind of tone I like. Heck, even Samara Joy and Laufey were perfect on these!So much so that I listened to the entire Portrait Album of Samara Joy on these and completely forgot I was doing earphone assessment. I was just vibing and chilling to the smooth and silky tones of the modern Ella Fitzgerald. I also spent a considerable time going back to Laufey because of just how consistent the midrange presentation of the Kima 2 is.
Where it may lack, just like the bass, is overall engagement. The vocals are forward and energetic, but you don’t really get much bite or grunt on any instrument. You get good details and nuance, but not a lot of rough energy that you might find with more specialized or energetic sets. The low end is particularly damp with not much to keep you engaged with low end instruments thanks to the bass-linear presentation.
Treble
This is where I adored and yawned over the Kima 2. On one end, this is a very well-refined and overall clean treble that allows me to just go ham at the volume knob. No shout, no sibilance and no grainy or edginess to make me wince. It does that while also being supremely detailed with good treble nuance and clarity and a decent level of air. However, these are definitely on the safer side to my personal taste as tracks that I usually find a ragged edge of imperfection is smoothened out a little too much on the Kima 2.The perfect example of this is Bed Chem by Sabrina Carpenter. That song is tuned a little bit bright compared to its neighboring songs in Short and Sweet and the edgy percussions were a treat when presented with a bit of maturity. Nothing too edgy but just right. The Kima 2 found itself a little too safe with the song being completely listenable at higher volumes but somewhat drowned out in the low end as the volume goes up. Details are presented nicely, like I mentioned, but I like a bit of edge on lower listening volumes that focus on just those hi hats and cymbals. Regardless, Sabrina’s voice sound fantastic on these.
Air could also be improved, especially in the top end and the energy could just be boosted a little bit for taste. But nothing much I’d say breaks my love for the Kima 2’s impeccable tonal balance as even in the treble I found it to be silky smooth but crisp.
Technicalities
And now we find ourselves where the Kima 2 somewhat takes a step down. A set with this impeccable timbre and a somewhat low price? You almost always expect that the compromise finds itself in the technicalities. Granted, this is not a limp set in any sense. You get clean separation, good dynamics, good transients and fine layering. But overall dynamic and transient presentation is not as well-defined as what you might expect from hybrids or more aggressively tuned single DDs in this price point. Its safer than safe tuning with a bit of energy in the top end will bring music to you on a silver platter, but ensures that you get the most comfortable and safest listening experience to avoid you from finding your meal unsatisfactory. That’s the weakest point of the Kima 2 in my opinion, and one where people will be critical over its $120 price range that sets like the EA500LM on the low and Supermix 4 on the high might do better over the Kima 2.COMPARISONS:
vs Simgot EA500LM
vs Intuaura Luna Plume
Arguably the most appropriate comparison due to the fact that they are both timbre focused single DDs with decent techs and fantastic tone. The main difference being the Luna Plume is warmer and more “musical” compared to the Kima 2 which is more neutral. The Plume is a tad less technically capable than the Kima 2, potentially due to the warmth, but is also more engaging and more versatile in terms of its appropriate geenres thanks to the stronger low end. I’d argue that both sets compliment each other despite having a very similar goal and the choice comes down to whether you want pseudo reference neutral or warm and musical.
vs Dunu Titan S2
What both the Titan S2 and Kima 2 have in common is how easy they are to recommend. Both sets are safe sets with a complete accessory inclusion, great build and fit and easy to like sound. Another thing they have in common is the somewhat lack luster technical ability for the price that, in the case of the Titan S2, became its achilles heel. In the case of the Kima 2, however, the tuning is still quite unique despite that lackluster technical ability and still makes it a compelling set for people who are looking for a reference neutral sound. I enjoy both sets for different reasons, and the accessories are always welcome
vs Oriveti Dynabird
In every sense of the word, the Dynabird contrasts the Kima 2 in every single way. The Dynabird is v-shaped, abrasive, edgy and aggressive. Completely contrasting the safe, soothing and neutral tone of the Kima 2. In a way, this makes them another complementary set. However, the Dynabird also falls to the Kima 2 in how refined the latter is. The Dynabird’s edginess makes it sound like it’s being pushed further than the driver can handle. The Kima 2 on the other hand sounds effortless and smooth while maintaining good detail and nuance.
vs Simgot EA1000
Slightly unfair due to the $100 jump in the price, but the EA1000 represents the edgier and more technically focused sound that the Kima 2 and the Luna Plume contrats. All in all, EA1000 takes what's good about the EA500 and EA500LM and cranks it up to 11, including the potentially “offensive” tone. The Kima 2 avoids this problem by taking the Dunu Falcon Ultra’s route of a safe yet engaging tone and getting rid of the engagement. Not a bad thing, but definitely makes the Kima 2 a set for those who just want something safe.
CONCLUSIONS
This is my favorite sub $200 timbre focused set right now, and by a long shot. Simgot may have cracked the code to technically capable single DDs, but the Kima 2 is bar none unbeatable when it comes to providing some of the most consistent tonal presentation in any IEM today. It sounds effortless while still providing good detail and nuance. It’s a vocal and instrumental beast that will never hurt or dishonor your ears, but will still provide you with a fundamentally fantastic listening experience.
But the elephant in the room is how it might be too safe sounding. I know not everyone cares about that, but it lives in the price range where planar, hybrids and technically focused DDs dominate and the Kima 2 is an outlier by being a timbre first, techs later kind of set. That’s not entirely a con for me, but it will be a con for those seeking a more technical and detailed sounding set. But if you’re like me and just want a set to vibe with and have a consistently soothing listening experience, Kima 2 is unlike anything you’ll ever hear.
Thank you for reading my review on Dunu Kima 2. If you would like to order one, consider using the non-affiliated link below: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005007914635944.html
Specs
Driver configuration: DLC composite dome dynamic driver
Frequency response: 5 Hz - 40000 Hz
Impedance: 20 Ω
Sensitivity: 108 dB/mW
Cable: 2-pin 0.78 mm; mono-crystalline copper and silver-plated mono-cystalline copper; 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm modules
Tested at: $119.99 USD
Acessories
- 3 pairs of "atmosphere" red ear tips
- 3 pairs of "vocal" blue ear tips
- 3 pairs of Candy silicone ear tips
- 4 pairs of S&S (Stage and Studio) silicone ear tips
- Cable
- 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm modular terminals
- Carrying case
- Soft pouch
- Cleaning brush
- Shirt clip
- Waifu stand
Kima and Kima 2
Impressions:
The Dunu Kima 2 arrives in an attractively designed box featuring impressive graphics and includes an extensive array of accessories such as a large case, four different types of ear tips, and a high-quality cable, reminiscent of the Titans. I found the build to be exception with its all-metal shell and large number of tips to choose from. isolation was good for me with the stock tips. I would have preferred the green, but they look good in silver and don't attract any fingerprints.
Transparency:
I would like to express my gratitude to Dunu for sending the items to me. As always, I appreciate the gesture. However, possessing a substantial collection, it does not influence my opinion since I do not require them and I donate all my surplus IEMs to charity.
Equipment used:
I used mostly the Anue Yuki, IFI GoBar Kensei, ifi ZenDac-3, Hifiman EF500 , ifi Diablo-2, Gryphon, and HipDac3, Mamoritai Audio Euphony and from TempoTec V6 , Pixle-8 pro running android 15 as well as windows 11 desktop. The files ranged from HD-streaming to DSD.
Sound:
Let's delve into the sound of the Kima 2; the lower frequencies, especially the Sub-Bass, are focused and finely tuned, leaning towards a slight elevation above neutral. The bass has a pleasant rumble and texture, yet it is not overly bass-heavy, making it suitable for those who are not bass enthusiasts.
The mid-bass added sufficient warmth to the lower midrange, enriching and tastefully coloring the tones. The mids are well-focused, with a pleasant thickness and note weight that contribute to the enjoyment of this Kima.
The upper mids and treble are sufficiently open and possess a pleasing level of clarity, presenting both smoothly and without harshness.
The soundstage of the Kima 2 is sufficiently wide, though lacking in depth, yet it offers good imaging and separation. In most cases, it performs well enough for media and gaming experiences.
In a nutshell.
The new Kima2 represents not just an improvement, but also a slight shift in direction. It offers a pleasant and enjoyable experience throughout the day, complete with exceptional accessories and build quality.
Video:
DISCLAIMER
I would like to thank HIFIGO for providing this review unit.
The DUNU KIMA 2 can be gotten here: https://hifigo.com/products/dunu-kima2 (no affiliate links).
Do take note that there are 2 variants of the KIMA 2:
SPECIFICATIONS
ACCESSORIES
Other than the IEM, these are included:
- 3 pairs of "atmosphere" red ear tips
- 3 pairs of "vocal" blue ear tips
- 3 pairs of Candy silicone ear tips
- 4 pairs of S&S (Stage and Studio) silicone ear tips
- Cable
- 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm modular terminals
- Carrying case
- Soft pouch
- Cleaning brush
- Shirt clip
- Waifu stand
For something retailing at just above 100 bucks, the KIMA 2 is very generously accessorized, perhaps other than the omission of foam tips.
We have 4 variants of silicone eartips:
The stock cable is a mono-crystalline copper and silver-plated mono-cystalline copper mixed one, with a braided nylon sheath. This cable is tangle-free and supple to the touch, with a chin cinch for added grip. There is a smattering of microphonics however.
The cable utilizes DUNU's patented Q lock mini design, which terminates to 3.5 mm (single-ended) and 4.4 mm (balanced) modules - depending on your source needs - and nicely, there is a screw-on mechanism to prevent inadvertent disconnection. Indeed, these modular cables without a lock may be disaster waiting to happen if a phone or DAP drops off!
We have a small draw-string soft pouch to put the IEMs in, to prevent scratching and knocking, and a hefty semi-rigid white zipper case. This case has inner cushioning and webbing to store the contents, and the externals are crush resistant.
DUNU has also added a cleaning brush and shirt clip for functionality.
And to complete the packaging, we have a large waifu stand that should please the otakus amongst us!
The rest of this review was done with the stock cable and stock "vocal" silicone eartips. No aftermarket accessories were used, so as not to add any confounders to the sound.
BUILD/COMFORT
The housings feature a multi-faceted S316 stainless steel finish, which is sandblasted to perfection in a smooth matte finish. The KIMA 2 is literally built like a tank, melding elegance and utility.
The earpieces weigh 10.5 g apiece, and ergonomics are very agreeable, with the polished inner surfaces and relatively small profile of the shells.
Being a vented IEM, isolation is below average. However, I'm glad to report that there is no driver flex on my pair.
INTERNALS
The KIMA 2's engine is a DLC composite dome dynamic driver.
DRIVABILITY
I tested the KIMA 2 with the following sources:
- Apple dongle
- Cayin RU7
- Chord Mojo 2
- Fiio KA15 dongle
- Fiio KA17 dongle
- Khadas Tone Board -> Schiit Asgard 3 amp
- Questyle M15 DAC/AMP dongle
- Sony Walkman NW A-55 DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Sony Walkman NW WM1A DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Smartphone
This IEM is easily driven, with no hard requirement for amplification.
SOUND & TECHNICALITIES
Graph of the DUNU KIMA 2 via IEC711 coupler. 8 kHz is a coupler artefact peak.
Tonally, the KIMA 2 bestows a pleasant warm neutral tuning. There are no harsh dips or peaks in the frequency response. It is very balanced, though perhaps bassheads and trebleheads may want something more "fun".
This is a sub-bass focused IEM, with a relatively tactile rumble felt on bass heavy tracks, though it isn't basshead in quantity. There's a slight element of mid-bass bleed - this adds warmth and heft to the note weight - though bass speed is quite nimble with above average texturing.
The midrange is the star of the show. It is lush and full bodied, yet without sounding overly veiled. With a 7ish dB ear gain, the upper mids are forwards with no shout. Listening to genres like vocals and OSTs are a joy, and midlovers will have a field day with the thicc sonics.
The KIMA 2 has an upper treble roll-off with minimal sibilance, so this will be a great companion for longer listening sessions. It isn't a treblehead set, but neither does it veer to darkness, as cymbals and high hats are still conveyed accurately without being splashy or harsh.
Timbral accuracy is another ace up the KIMA 2's sleeve, and I would quote that it is class-leading in this arena for the low $100 bracket. Acoustic instruments ranging from strings to percussions, to brasses to woodwinds, all sound life-like, with top-notch coherency.
In the area of technicalities, the KIMA 2 is more of a musical set than a technical champ. It isn't totally devoid of resolution - with above average soundstage and nice layering - but imaging is just adequate, with decent micro-detailing. However, when there are busy tracks with competing riffs, instrument separation may be somewhat muffled.
COMPARISONS
The KIMA 2 will be compared against other single DDs residing at the low $100 market. BAs, hybrids and planar are left out, as the different transducer types have their own pros and cons.
DUNU KIMA (original) and KIMA Classic
I have lumped the 2 predecessors of the KIMA 2 here.
As per the graphs above, the KIMA 2 is thicker in the midrange compared to its older siblings, with the KIMA 2 also showcasing less upper mids/lower treble glare - ie the KIMA 2 is less V-shaped than the older twins. Additionally, the KIMA 2 has better timbre than the OG KIMA and KIMA Classic.
The KIMA Classic has better imaging and sharper note edges, but loses in micro-detailing and soundstage to the KIMA 2. The KIMA Classic is also much harsher in the upper mids/treble, with more fatigue and more of a lower midrange scoop-out (it sounds less full-bodied).
Compared to the KIMA 2, the OG KIMA is a step behind in soundstage, micro-detailing and instrument separation, and the OG KIMA also has a more marked sub-bass roll-off.
Moondrop Aria 2
The Aria 2 follows the virtual diffuse sound field (VDSF) - which is essentially Moondrop's in-house variant of the Harman curve - and the Aria 2 sounds much thinner and sterile, with a harsher lower treble region. Sibilance and harshness are more pronounced on the Aria 2.
The Aria 2 is more metallic in timbre, with weaker imaging, soundstage and instrument separation.
The Aria 2 is also larger and heavier in shell weight, leading to more discomfort for longer listening sessions.
Simgot EA500LM
The EA500LM has 3 tuning nozzles to confer more versatility. But across all nozzles, it still has a brighter V-shaped tone, with more bass and treble, and a thinner midrange than the KIMA 2. The EA500LM is more shouty in the upper mids, with more sibilance and fatigue in the top end.
The EA500LM has an artificial timbre compared to the more natural-sounding KIMA 2. The EA500LM has stronger micro-detailing and imaging, but loses in soundstage.
CONCLUSIONS
The DUNU KIMA 2 is a mid-lovers' best friend. Sporting a warm neutral balanced signature, the syrupy and euphonic midrange - coupled with one of the best timbre I've heard in the low $100 bracket - promises a full-bodied and "musical" experience. The treble and upper mids are also not steroid boosted - this allows the KIMA 2 to be a great pairing for chilling and relaxing to.
Granted, it isn't the most resolving single DD, but other rivals that are more technical may suffer from coherency, tonal or timbre flaws, and the KIMA 2 isn't exactly lacking in this department, with above average soundstage on display.
Accessories are second-to-none at its retail price, with a wide selection of eartips, a modular cable, cases and even a waifu stand for otaku collectors. The KIMA 2 is also easily driven, with good ergonomics; these properties are suitable as a daily beater IEM, though isolation is below average.
Diehard bassheads and trebleheads might want a bit more excitement in the tuning - courses for horses after all - but for others looking for a musical soundscape with dulcet tones, the KIMA 2 has my recommendation.
I would like to thank HIFIGO for providing this review unit.
The DUNU KIMA 2 can be gotten here: https://hifigo.com/products/dunu-kima2 (no affiliate links).
Do take note that there are 2 variants of the KIMA 2:
- Standard edition - this has matte grey shells, and is the version we will be talking about today.
- Limited edition - this has a green mirror-like finish, and is limited to 999 units worldwide. The tuning and price is identical to the standard edition, just with a different external apperance and accessory line-up.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Driver configuration: DLC composite dome dynamic driver
- Frequency response: 5 Hz - 40000 Hz
- Impedance: 20 Ω
- Sensitivity: 108 dB/mW
- Cable: 2-pin 0.78 mm; mono-crystalline copper and silver-plated mono-cystalline copper; 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm modules
- Tested at: $119.99 USD
ACCESSORIES
Other than the IEM, these are included:
- 3 pairs of "atmosphere" red ear tips
- 3 pairs of "vocal" blue ear tips
- 3 pairs of Candy silicone ear tips
- 4 pairs of S&S (Stage and Studio) silicone ear tips
- Cable
- 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm modular terminals
- Carrying case
- Soft pouch
- Cleaning brush
- Shirt clip
- Waifu stand
For something retailing at just above 100 bucks, the KIMA 2 is very generously accessorized, perhaps other than the omission of foam tips.
We have 4 variants of silicone eartips:
- The colourful Candy eartips have the best isolation, and add the most heft to note weight and warmth.
- The S&S (Stage and Studio) tips come in a tubular design, fashioned from a gel-like material that is firm and grippy. These tips sound mid-centric, and they boost vocals (though with some decrease in bass). These tips are quite popular on forums, with audiophiles buying them individually at $12 (eg https://hifigo.com/products/dunu-s-s).
- The dark blue tips - christened "vocal" - are the least isolating, but provide the largest soundstage and the best technicalities.
- Lastly, we have the red "atmosphere" tips, which increase the bass (though with some compromise in soundstage).
The stock cable is a mono-crystalline copper and silver-plated mono-cystalline copper mixed one, with a braided nylon sheath. This cable is tangle-free and supple to the touch, with a chin cinch for added grip. There is a smattering of microphonics however.
The cable utilizes DUNU's patented Q lock mini design, which terminates to 3.5 mm (single-ended) and 4.4 mm (balanced) modules - depending on your source needs - and nicely, there is a screw-on mechanism to prevent inadvertent disconnection. Indeed, these modular cables without a lock may be disaster waiting to happen if a phone or DAP drops off!
We have a small draw-string soft pouch to put the IEMs in, to prevent scratching and knocking, and a hefty semi-rigid white zipper case. This case has inner cushioning and webbing to store the contents, and the externals are crush resistant.
DUNU has also added a cleaning brush and shirt clip for functionality.
And to complete the packaging, we have a large waifu stand that should please the otakus amongst us!
The rest of this review was done with the stock cable and stock "vocal" silicone eartips. No aftermarket accessories were used, so as not to add any confounders to the sound.
BUILD/COMFORT
The housings feature a multi-faceted S316 stainless steel finish, which is sandblasted to perfection in a smooth matte finish. The KIMA 2 is literally built like a tank, melding elegance and utility.
The earpieces weigh 10.5 g apiece, and ergonomics are very agreeable, with the polished inner surfaces and relatively small profile of the shells.
Being a vented IEM, isolation is below average. However, I'm glad to report that there is no driver flex on my pair.
INTERNALS
The KIMA 2's engine is a DLC composite dome dynamic driver.
DRIVABILITY
I tested the KIMA 2 with the following sources:
- Apple dongle
- Cayin RU7
- Chord Mojo 2
- Fiio KA15 dongle
- Fiio KA17 dongle
- Khadas Tone Board -> Schiit Asgard 3 amp
- Questyle M15 DAC/AMP dongle
- Sony Walkman NW A-55 DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Sony Walkman NW WM1A DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Smartphone
This IEM is easily driven, with no hard requirement for amplification.
SOUND & TECHNICALITIES
Graph of the DUNU KIMA 2 via IEC711 coupler. 8 kHz is a coupler artefact peak.
Tonally, the KIMA 2 bestows a pleasant warm neutral tuning. There are no harsh dips or peaks in the frequency response. It is very balanced, though perhaps bassheads and trebleheads may want something more "fun".
This is a sub-bass focused IEM, with a relatively tactile rumble felt on bass heavy tracks, though it isn't basshead in quantity. There's a slight element of mid-bass bleed - this adds warmth and heft to the note weight - though bass speed is quite nimble with above average texturing.
The midrange is the star of the show. It is lush and full bodied, yet without sounding overly veiled. With a 7ish dB ear gain, the upper mids are forwards with no shout. Listening to genres like vocals and OSTs are a joy, and midlovers will have a field day with the thicc sonics.
The KIMA 2 has an upper treble roll-off with minimal sibilance, so this will be a great companion for longer listening sessions. It isn't a treblehead set, but neither does it veer to darkness, as cymbals and high hats are still conveyed accurately without being splashy or harsh.
Timbral accuracy is another ace up the KIMA 2's sleeve, and I would quote that it is class-leading in this arena for the low $100 bracket. Acoustic instruments ranging from strings to percussions, to brasses to woodwinds, all sound life-like, with top-notch coherency.
In the area of technicalities, the KIMA 2 is more of a musical set than a technical champ. It isn't totally devoid of resolution - with above average soundstage and nice layering - but imaging is just adequate, with decent micro-detailing. However, when there are busy tracks with competing riffs, instrument separation may be somewhat muffled.
COMPARISONS
The KIMA 2 will be compared against other single DDs residing at the low $100 market. BAs, hybrids and planar are left out, as the different transducer types have their own pros and cons.
DUNU KIMA (original) and KIMA Classic
I have lumped the 2 predecessors of the KIMA 2 here.
As per the graphs above, the KIMA 2 is thicker in the midrange compared to its older siblings, with the KIMA 2 also showcasing less upper mids/lower treble glare - ie the KIMA 2 is less V-shaped than the older twins. Additionally, the KIMA 2 has better timbre than the OG KIMA and KIMA Classic.
The KIMA Classic has better imaging and sharper note edges, but loses in micro-detailing and soundstage to the KIMA 2. The KIMA Classic is also much harsher in the upper mids/treble, with more fatigue and more of a lower midrange scoop-out (it sounds less full-bodied).
Compared to the KIMA 2, the OG KIMA is a step behind in soundstage, micro-detailing and instrument separation, and the OG KIMA also has a more marked sub-bass roll-off.
Moondrop Aria 2
The Aria 2 follows the virtual diffuse sound field (VDSF) - which is essentially Moondrop's in-house variant of the Harman curve - and the Aria 2 sounds much thinner and sterile, with a harsher lower treble region. Sibilance and harshness are more pronounced on the Aria 2.
The Aria 2 is more metallic in timbre, with weaker imaging, soundstage and instrument separation.
The Aria 2 is also larger and heavier in shell weight, leading to more discomfort for longer listening sessions.
Simgot EA500LM
The EA500LM has 3 tuning nozzles to confer more versatility. But across all nozzles, it still has a brighter V-shaped tone, with more bass and treble, and a thinner midrange than the KIMA 2. The EA500LM is more shouty in the upper mids, with more sibilance and fatigue in the top end.
The EA500LM has an artificial timbre compared to the more natural-sounding KIMA 2. The EA500LM has stronger micro-detailing and imaging, but loses in soundstage.
CONCLUSIONS
The DUNU KIMA 2 is a mid-lovers' best friend. Sporting a warm neutral balanced signature, the syrupy and euphonic midrange - coupled with one of the best timbre I've heard in the low $100 bracket - promises a full-bodied and "musical" experience. The treble and upper mids are also not steroid boosted - this allows the KIMA 2 to be a great pairing for chilling and relaxing to.
Granted, it isn't the most resolving single DD, but other rivals that are more technical may suffer from coherency, tonal or timbre flaws, and the KIMA 2 isn't exactly lacking in this department, with above average soundstage on display.
Accessories are second-to-none at its retail price, with a wide selection of eartips, a modular cable, cases and even a waifu stand for otaku collectors. The KIMA 2 is also easily driven, with good ergonomics; these properties are suitable as a daily beater IEM, though isolation is below average.
Diehard bassheads and trebleheads might want a bit more excitement in the tuning - courses for horses after all - but for others looking for a musical soundscape with dulcet tones, the KIMA 2 has my recommendation.
