Kefine Klanar 14.5mm Planar Driver

General Information

14.5mm Planar Driver
The Klanar boasts a renowned 14.5mm planar driver, celebrated for its versatility and ability to excel across various music genres. This high-fidelity earphone is widely appreciated for its well-balanced sound profile, striking the perfect emotional and natural tone. It brings acoustic instruments to life with astonishingly lifelike and profoundly musical qualities. Notable components, including the PET composite diaphragm, N55 magnet, and a customized driver construction, come together to deliver an impressively potent bass response, surpassing most planar IEMs. The mid-range is characterized by its warmth and richness, while maintaining exceptional clarity and detail for an immersive listening experience like no other.

5-Axis CNC Precision Machining
The earphone housing is meticulously crafted from a single piece of aluminum alloy using 5-axis CNC precision machining. This method not only bestows a high-end appearance but also results in a precisely engineered chamber for accurate sound reproduction. The housing design prioritizes a smaller and lighter build, representing the pinnacle of craftsmanship to ensure comfort during extended listening sessions.

Ergonomic Design
Featuring a 14.5mm planar driver within the housing, the Klanar achieves an extremely compact design for maximum wearing comfort. To minimize the earphone housing size, an exceptionally thin 0.2mm wall is employed, ensuring a comfortable fit. The ergonomic design seamlessly conforms to various ear shapes.
Exquisite Shell Design
The earphone housing features a matte finish with black anodizing, complemented by a glossy black faceplate adorned with an engraved white logo. This combination exudes an aura of high-end sophistication and timeless elegance.
Premium Cable
The TEU-99 incorporates a convenient 0.78mm 2-pin detachable cable system, offering versatility with both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced connectors. What sets this cable apart is its composition, with a total of 4 wires, each containing 54 cores of conductors. This meticulous construction guarantees high-quality sound transmission, providing an unparalleled audio experience.
Dual-Wire Cable Design
The dual-wire cable is engineered to achieve a harmonious blend of warm sound and crystalline treble. This innovative dual-wire cable design combines two distinct components: OFC litz wire in brown and silver-plated copper litz wire in black. This combination enriches the audio experience with warm, natural sound while ensuring smooth and transparent treble without sacrificing clarity.

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Latest reviews

presleyp84

New Head-Fier

4.00 star(s)
Apr 14, 2024

Planar Paradise?

Pros: -Lightweight and comfortable for traveling.
-Bass
-Male Vocals

Cons: -Bright and could be fatiguing for some.
-Treble timbre feels metallic.
-Female vocals
-Nothing exceptional to make it stand out from the existing offerings under $100

Foreword:

I'm grateful to Pulkit (@gadgetgod) for providing me with this unit as part of the audition tour. This is Kefine's first release of its planar implementation, the Klanar. It has a 14.5mm Planar driver. Let's dig deeper on its build and my sound impressions.

Please Note: I lack the comprehension of audiophile jargon so I will try to explain my review like a 9 year old to avoid ambiguity in my review.

Build:

The Build is light and comfortable making it sit on the ears for longer sessions. The shell finishing feels premium. The braided cable, case and tips are decent for the asking price. Nothing to complain about here. My review unit had the 4.4mm cable. Read my sound impressions to know why..

Gear used:
-Samsung M51 paired with Cayin Ru6
- iFi Go Blu on Bluetooth

Streaming Apps: Spotify & Apple Music

Driveability 3.5/5

Klanar being a planar driver needs a good source to sing well. With a good source it scales pretty well.

Sound:

To describe the sound I would say that the Klanar has an overall bright V shaped presentation but that's not it. Keep reading to find out more..

Bass : 5/5

Depth and Rumble
Testing sub-bass depth and rumble in an IEM requires tracks that feature deep bass frequencies and powerful sub-bass elements.

In the track Massive Attack - "Teardrop" the rumble was good, distinct and sits perfectly below the vocals and other instruments. It shows that Klanar has a good bass extension.
In another track "The Plan" from the movie TENET, the sub bass has a good rumble that was very well evident throughout the track.

Control and tightness
To test bass control and tightness in an IEM, you’ll want tracks that feature well-defined basslines and controlled low-frequency elements.

In the track Daft Punk - "One More Time" the bass tightness was somewhat average, I'd say it was sufficient enough not to sound sluggish.
I used another track, Stevie Wonder - "Superstition" where I felt the bass was just tight enough.

Mid-Bass Punch and Slam
Testing mid-bass punch and slam in an IEM requires tracks that emphasise the lower frequencies with impact and depth.

In the track Queen - "Another One Bites the Dust '' the bass-line is adequately punchy.
In with another track Muse - "Hysteria the slam was slightly lacking to me in the distorted bass guitar.

Mids: 3.5/5

Lower mids - Body and Warmth
To evaluate lower mids body and warmth in an IEM, you'll want tracks that feature rich vocals, acoustic instruments, and low-register instruments like guitars and cellos.

The track Norah Jones - "Come Away With Me" felt bright with female vocals on top. However, the bassy instruments felt slightly recessed. Piano keystrokes at times felt sharp, Strings and cymbals were easier to notice.
In another track Coldplay - "Yellow", here the male vocals had a thin note weight and the instruments felt bright.

Upper Mids - Clarity and Detail
To test upper mids clarity and detail in an IEM, you'll want tracks that feature prominent vocals, guitars, and other mid-range instruments with intricate textures and nuances.

In Radiohead - "Pyramid Song '' as the track advances, Klanar has decent vocal clarity. The piano doesn't get muffled with the vocals, instrument separation is great here.
In another track Diana Krall - "S'Wonderful" the vocals are forward and the instruments come clean and well presented. Klanar performed well on this track.

Midrange Balance and Timbre
Testing midrange balance and timbre in an IEM requires tracks that showcase a variety of instruments and vocal performances across the midrange spectrum.

The track Pink Floyd - "Wish You Were Here" features a variety of instruments like guitars, piano, and vocals all occupy the midrange. The note weight on Klanar felt lean although all instruments were well presented.
The track Antonio Vivaldi - "The Four Seasons - Spring" relies heavily on violins and cellos, both prominent in the mids. Klanar is able to showcase the natural timbres of the cellos. However, the violin sounded sharp and slightly thin.

Overall Midrange Performance:

The track Adele - "Someone Like You" features vocals which spans a wide range of the midrange. Klanar has slight peaks and is close to harsh but not sibilant.
The track Steely Dan - "Aja" features a meticulously crafted mix with instruments and vocals seamlessly integrated across the midrange. Klanar feels balanced in resolving and it reveals the intricate details and textures within the song.
Upper mids are at times harsh i noticed it on some tracks. Female vocals have peaks and instruments like trumpets and electric guitar felt slightly thin and energetic and invited fatigue when I used ru6 which is a warm DAC.

Treble 3/5

Treble Extension - Air and Brightness:
Testing treble extension and brightness in an IEM requires tracks that feature prominent high-frequency elements such as cymbals, hi-hats, and vocal sibilance.

In the track Led Zeppelin - "When the Levee Breaks" the cymbal strikes are not clear and the entire track had too much energy for me. It also lacked the natural timbre and felt too metallic.
In the track Steely Dan - "Do it Again" the high hats cymbals crispness is decent, the percussions sounded great and the track had good layering. Vocals were right there. Neither forward nor recessed.

Treble Detail and Resolution:
To test treble detail and resolution in an IEM, you’ll want tracks that contain intricate high-frequency elements and subtle nuances.

In the track Antonio Vivaldi - "The Four Seasons - Summer '', as the track progresses, Klanar is able to resolve intricate details in the treble The fast violin passages in this summer movement. The separation of notes is quite clear and doesn’t sound smeared together.
In the bollywood track Surili Akhiyon Wale - Veer Klanar picks up nuances and the bar chimes are very clean which plays at the back of the guitar picks layered with accordion.

Smoothness and Sibilance Control:
To test treble smoothness and sibilance control in an IEM, you’ll want tracks that contain vocals with sibilant sounds (like “s” and “sh” sounds) and high-frequency elements without being harsh or piercing.

Nora Jones - "Don't Know Why": the vocals had peaks but were not sibilant. Klanar had the harsh peaks and was borderline sibilant.

Overall Treble Quality and Balance

The Pink Floyd - "Comfortably Numb" features a layered soundscape with guitars, synths, and vocals all sharing the treble space. Klanar presented a clear and detailed treble without any particular element being overpowering.
The track by Mozart - "Piano Concerto No. 21 - III" has a bright melody played on the piano. I chose this track to test the balance and smoothness in Klanar. The overall presentation was bright and energetic with slight peaks.

Technicalities

In most tracks I was able to hear the instruments crisp and clear. The Soundstage width is good but average depth. It doesn't have a holographic stage. One reference would be the track Miles Davis - "So What" where the instruments have enough space to breathe.
Imaging is quite average this is why it doesn't stand out in the under $100 category. In tracks involving 1-3 instruments, I was able to tell where the sound was coming from and how far but it was mostly left to right. Using the same track as above I was able to feel the distance of all instruments.
Resolution is great, it picks up nuances and expresses it so well. The cymbal reverbs sound beautiful. Layering is also something I feel it does very well. in the track Snarky Puppy - Lingus (We Like It Here), I was able to hear a lot of details. Also as the track progresses it adds on layers of each instrument.

Final Verdict:

With all that’s said, The Klanar is still a good attempt in making an unusual planar driver IEM and it's commendable that Kenfine came up with an affordable IEM. However, it fails to stand out in this price bracket because of the cut throat competition from brands like Simgot and Truthear.

Reactions: ILuvAudio and Colin5619

Ianbanz

New Head-Fier

4.00 star(s)
Apr 5, 2024

Kefine Klanar Planar iem

Pros: • 14.5mm Planar Driver: The use of a large planar driver ensures rich, detailed sound reproduction across the frequency spectrum, lush and smooth lows to crisp highs.

• CNC Precision Machining: Precision machining enhances the durability and aesthetics of the IEM, ensuring a high-quality finish and precise fit for optimal sound isolation.

• Ergonomic Design: The ergonomic and lightweight design ensures a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions, minimizing fatigue and maximizing enjoyment.

• Exquisite Shell Design: Subtle and elegantly designed shell not only enhances aesthetics but also contributes to improved sound resonance and isolation.

Cons: • Can be bright on some tracks and might not appeal to treble sensitive.

Specifications:

Driver Type: Planar driver
Driver Size: φ14.5 mm
Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 40 kHz
Sensitivity: 105 dB +/- 3 dB
Impedance: 16 Ω +/-15%
Cable Length: 1.2 m +/-0.2 m
Plug Size: φ3.5 mm SE or φ4.4 mm BA
Weight: 6.3 g
The Kefine Klanar Planar IEM is a compelling blend of style, performance, and comfort. With a sleek, CNC machined shell design, these in-ear monitors exude durability and aesthetic appeal.

Powered by a 14.5mm planar driver, the Klanar delivers an immersive audio experience. Its frequency response of 20 Hz - 40 kHz ensures rich, detailed sound across the entire spectrum. With emphasis on mid bass it adds depth to the low end, while the forward mids amplify vocal clarity, making every lyric pop with precision.

Kefine Klanar Planar IEM somewhat of a W shape sound signature with a focus on mid-bass, forward mids, and extended treble, it delivers an engaging listening experience with nuanced details and clarity.
What truly sets the Klanar apart is its bright and energetic treble without sibilance or harshness. The well-extended highs bring out intricate details in your music, enhancing every note with crispness and sparkle. listening to delicate strings or punchy percussion, the Klanar captures the nuances with finesse and speed.

In terms of technical performance, the Klanar excels. It offers good macro and micro details, allowing you to uncover layers of instrumentation with clarity with a moderate-sized soundstage offers above average instrument separation but interestingly i find the single DD Kefine Delci more holographic and has better imaging compared to the klanar.
Comfort is paramount during extended listening sessions, and the Klanar delivers with its lightweight construction and ergonomic fit. The 1.2-meter cable provides ample freedom of movement, while the option for both 3.5mm SE and 4.4mm BA plugs ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices.

Sound Signature:

Sub-Bass Presence: While the sub-bass is present and responsive when called upon, it leans more towards the mid-bass region. This ensures a solid foundation for the sound without sacrificing clarity or detail.

Mid-Bass Focus: The mid-bass takes center stage, providing punchy and well-defined bass notes that add depth and impact to the overall sound. It offers a satisfying low-end presence without overpowering the other frequencies.
Forward Mids and Vocals: The mids are forward and expressive, placing vocals and instruments at the forefront of the soundstage. This emphasis on the midrange adds warmth and intimacy to vocals, making them shine in every track.
Bright, Extended Treble: The treble is bright and well-extended, contributing to the overall clarity and airiness of the sound. It adds sparkle and detail to high-frequency instruments, enhancing the overall listening experience with good clarity detail without sounding harsh or sibilant.
Soundstage and Imaging:

Average Soundstage: The soundstage of the Klanar Planar IEM is average, providing a decent sense of space and separation between instruments. While it may not offer the expansive soundstage of some other models, it still provides an immersive listening experience.
Good Instrument Separation and Layering: Despite the average soundstage, the Klanar Planar IEM excels in instrument separation and layering. Each instrument occupies its own space within the soundstage, allowing for clear and distinct audio reproduction.
Average Imaging: In comparison to the single dynamic driver Kefine Delci, the imaging of the Klanar Planar IEM is average. While it accurately positions instruments and vocals within the soundstage, it may not offer the same level of precision and detail as its little single dd brother kefine delci.
Conclusion:

The Kefine Klanar Planar IEM offers a balanced sound signature with a focus on mid-bass, forward mids, and extended treble. With its punchy bass, expressive vocals, and detailed treble, it delivers an engaging listening experience across various music genres. While its soundstage may be as expansive as some planar iems on the market, its strong instrument separation and layering ensure a captivating audio experience. Overall, the Klanar Planar IEM is a solid choice for those seeking a versatile and well-rounded sound signature with excellent planar technicalities.

Reactions: Colin5619

S

SherryLion

New Head-Fier

4.50 star(s)
Mar 21, 2024

A Mix Of S12 And Timeless With Better Definition And Clarity! The Kefine Klanar

Pros: 1. Nicely done bright V-shape tuning
2. Detailed and airy treble
3. Clear and thorough mid range
4. Engaging and rumbling bass
5. Great technicalities

Cons: 1. Metallic sounding in the upper frequencies
2. Can be lean in the mid range for some people

Review Of The Kefine Klanar

Introduction

Kefine, a new Chinese company that I recently learned about, has dabbled in planar technology and produced a planar IEM with their debut known as the Klanar, which is their first self-developed planar IEM. I recently received the Kefine Klanar for review, so before we go any further, I'd like to clarify a few points.

Disclaimer

*This is a review unit, courtesy of Concept Kart. All thanks to them for providing. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “Klanar.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Klanar based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification

The Klanar features a planar driver architecture that includes a 14.5mm planar with a PET composite diaphragm. The shells are manufactured using 5 axis CNC precision machining from a single piece of aluminum. When it came to the shell design, I had no complaints about the fit or comfort, however wearing it for an extended period of time caused soreness at the opening of the ear canal. The cable given feels adequate for the price, since it is a silver-plated copper wire with two pin connections on one end and a 4.4mm termination on the other. The IEM comes with a sturdy carrying bag and a selection of eartips in various sizes and kinds. According to the technical specs, the impedance is 16 Ohms and the sensitivity is 105dB. The frequency response ranges from 20Hz to 40kHz.

***Above Image Credit***

Sound

The sound of the Klanar leans towards a lean sound which is quite a bright V-shaped tuning rather than a neutral one. The clarity and details are the focus with ample amount of engaging bass which makes it quite an intriguing IEM for the price. I have heard many such Planar IEMs using a full range planar and I do believe that this is not something new or unique but more refined in certain areas while a little striking in others. If I were to relate such a response I would take the example of the Timeless which also had somewhat the same sound profile. The emphasis in the vocal region and the quality of the planar driver makes them sound enticing and subjectively either lean or very detailed and clear sounding. Yes the bass is also good for a Planar although the sound is more accurate than sounding warm. I do find hints of that wet response out of the Planar drivers but it is very much improved from the likes of the Timeless. Let’s diss more about sound into details.

Treble

The treble range sounds surprisingly spacious and airy, with the elements seeming to breathe freely and stretch far, which contributes to the sound being full and realistic. However, the kind of timbre used is not appropriate because the metallic aura is audible in the notes that come from the string instruments in particular.There is no doubt that the clarity and details were to be questioned, but I do find that the response is more true to how it is supposed to sound by the frequency graph. The upper treble region holds a nice extended region that, in my opinion, allows the vocal and the instruments to sound full and complete. Even with that airy presence, the response is more linear, larger, and enclosed in your surroundings. In essence, there are notes wherever you look. The notes sound more relaxed in the lower treble area, which manages energy considerably better and produces a pleasing tone. Once more, the instruments and voices are quite clear and detailed, but the note weight and density are improved. Regarding how it compares to its rivals, I would say that these provide a somewhat lower tone in exchange for a greater grasp of details, and I haven't had a tuned planar IEM as of late. As a result, the treble area is presented in a detailed, airy, and metallic manner overall.

Mid Range

When it comes to the mid range, the notes are delivered forward and crisply; the instruments and singers sound distinct and lively while appearing to be closed in. It's the ideal setup for a close-sounding IEM because of how the notes are positioned. The singers and instruments seem crisper and richer in the upper mid range, which reverberates with the same intensity as the lower treble but permits a more substantial presentation. Even if the presentation has been advanced once more, the notes' warmth and richness are still missing. The female vocals in complicated songs are tiring to listen to because of the wispiness and sibilance that are occasionally added. This makes the music appear lean and much too front in my opinion. However, the problems were fixed while retaining the accuracy and detail of the notes with a few eartip changes. Even if its presence is hazy, the lower mid range seems muted and a tad too clean for my liking. The lean character that is introduced in the upper mid range is a result of the muted quality of the lower mid range. As a result, the mid range area is presented generally in a clear, thorough, and lean manner.

Bass

Regarding the bass area, I am quite happy with both the amount and quality of the bass's presence. There is just the right amount of bass to make the music seem controlled yet powerful. The sub bass range is highlighted, and because of its deep extension, it provides a nice sense of rumbling in the ear canal and makes punches seem more powerful than they would on a typical planar system. The smashes and thumps had a good approach in the mix, however even if the mid bass area is sufficiently present, I find the amount and influence in the mix lacking.Once more, everything comes down to personal taste in tone and bass type. In terms of amount and quality of bass, I think Klanar performs significantly better than other planar IEMs. I recently evaluated some planar IEMs, and while the tone quality of those IEMs seemed more advanced, I have no complaints about the Klanar in terms of details or note clarity. Overall, the bass area is presented in a powerful, rumbling, yet controlled manner.

Technical Performance

The details, resolution, and speed are all things that the Planar IEMs that I have heard and reviewed never seemed like they had to sacrifice. In addition, I have lately seen some warm-sounding planars, which are a joy to talk about in more depth.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation

The notes are positioned and placed in a way that makes the stage sound distinct, more holographic than stereo even if it is closer. I am able to identify the precise locations of the notes because of the imaging and separation that makes the tones distinct and crisp.

Speed & Resolution

Both macro and micro features surface smoothly and expressively, demonstrating the excellent resolution. A very clear and resolved presentation is made possible by the fast assault and decay of the notes.

Sound Impressions

Sources

Sony WM1A - When listening to Klanar with the WM1A, the reaction seems to suggest that the stage has become larger and more spacious, and the singers retain their distinctive qualities while sounding more at ease and detailed. In contrast, the bass seems subdued, but its presence is more expansive and rich, which enables the mid bass to take up more space in the mix and sound warmer. Overall, both ends of the answer seem satisfied and thorough.

Tempotec V6 - When listening to Klanar on the V6, the midrange response seems more upfront and transparent, highlighting how personal and alluring the voices are to hear. The instruments also sounded closer and clearer, and there was a greater sense of focus on the intricacies and clarity. The bass felt more in control, while the treble had a more exuberant tone.

AFUL Snowynight - while listening Klanar with Snowynight, the response seems lot better positioned which helps in showing the intricacies and the impression of layering and imaging. Also the mid range sounded richer and better articulated which allowed the voices to seem more isolated and better stated. The bass had a relaxed, controlled tone.

Colorfly CDA-M2 - While listening to Klanar with the M2, the response sounds more present back and forth, with a more roomy presence of the vocals. The energetic and metallic presence is tamed, allowing for a more smoothed and clear response, so the overall response sounds much more pleasant and dynamic in my opinion.

Tracks

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
Wayne - Always Been You
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion

To sum up, the Klanar is excellent in terms of clarity and information relative to the cost. I am aware that certain planar IEMs may have similar sounds, but the technology and driver type employed here undoubtedly contribute to a more sophisticated sound. Therefore, I endorse them.

Last edited: Mar 21, 2024

Reactions: Colin5619

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Kefine Klanar 14.5mm Planar Driver