Kiwi Ears Division

Summary
The Division is a recently released budget closed back headphone from Kiwi Ears, coming in at 50$. This is their first attempt at making a headphone, and I must say they nailed it. The Division houses a single 40mm dynamic driver and has a warm V shape sound signature with more emphasis on the bass. Other than the sound, build and design is decent and minimalistic, fit and comfort is pretty good, packaging and accessories are as you would expect at this price.
So is this any good? Yes, this is a solid closed back headphone with overall great value proposition. If you are in the market for a starter or just a budget closed back set, this is a solid option.



Intro
Hey Guys, whats up….
Today I am checking out the Division from Kiwi Ears. This is a budget close back headphone, coming in at 50$. Whats interesting is, this is Kiwi Ears’ first attempt at making a headphone, and spoiler: they made a banger. Lets get into a bit more detail.

About the brand:
First, let’s get to know the brand, Kiwi Ears is a pretty popular and well reputed ChiFi iem manufacturer. They are well recognized in the audio community for providing high quality iems at a more reasonable price point. I have personally checked out and reviews many of their products and so far based on my use they have been in my top fav brands. At the moment I am also testing their budget dac dongle, Kiwi Ears Allegro Mini, review coming soon for that. Anyways, lets get back to the Division starting with specs.



Disclaimer: Thanks to Kiwi Ears for providing this product but please note that this review reflects my honest and unbiased opinion. I strive for transparency in all my reviews, whether the product is self-purchased, a free sample, loaned or received at a discount.

Specs
> Driver Unit: 40mm
> Impedance: 32 Ohm
> Sensitivity: 98dB+/-3dB
> Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20KHz
> Sensitivity: 108db/V@1KHz
> Plug: 3.5mm+6.35mm adaptor /3.5mm
= PRICE: 50$

Packaging
Continuing on to the packaging section, this comes in a simple packaging as you would expect at this price. There is some branding on the black box. Inside you will find the headphone wrapped in plastic, two cables and an quarter inch adaptor, and a manual. The cables are fine, I will get into a bit more detail about them later. List of box contents:
-Headphone
-Cable 1
-Cable 2
-Quarter inch adaptor
-Manual


Build and Design
Moving on to the build and design of the Division, Kiwi Ears has gone for a nicely built minimalistic looking design. There are two color options, black and white, I got the black one, this is a matte black finish with silver lining around the ear cups and white Kiwi Ears logo. The minimalistic design approach is attractive, but frankly speaking I expect a more bold and more unique design coming from Kiwi Ears, as they are well known for making gorgeous iems. Nevertheless, it is acceptable considering the entry level price point.
Build wise this uses a combination of metal and plastic and feels quite sturdy for daily use. The ear cups are made of plastic, but the faceplate feels like aluminum, I cannot say for certain. The headband is plush and covered with some sort of leather or artificial leather, not sure. Overall they are fairly light weight.
The Division is highly adjustable and flexible for comfort. This has pretty good horizontal and vertical swivel to the ear cups. The headband is also adjustable with a nice tactile mechanism. The Division can also be folded up to be more compact and portable.



Fit and Comfort
Talking about fit and comfort of the Division, it is pretty good. The highly adjustable factor helps it to fit quite nicely. The pads are plush and soft providing good comfort. Headband padding is also decent, this helps distribute the weight. Clamping force is on the standard to tight side, I personally like a more loose fit. Overall the division is pretty comfortable for long listening sessions.

Cable
Cables are a very important aspect pect of any headphone no matter the price, thus I always try to cover it in detail. The Division comes with two cables, which is rare at this price. The first cable is a standard 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable with a in line mic and button. The cable quality is just ok, this is very much memory prone, I would have preferred a softer cable. The mic quality was decent. This is more standard portable sized cable of the two. The second cable is a longer coiled cable. This is a 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable but also comes with a screw in type quarter inch adaptor. This is a bit softer than the first one but not my much. Although I appreciate Kiwi Ears for giving us two cables, I think it would have been better to include a single higher quality/ better feeling cable.

Please note: Listening impressions are highly subjective and can differ depending on different ear shape, individual music library, choice of source, cable and personal preferences, so your experience may differ. I personally always use and test all my gear in various setups to get a generalized idea on it. You can find my “tested with” info below.

Now most importantly sound, usually headphones at this price tend to go for either a super warm and bassy sound or a overly clinical, analytical sound, there are very few cases where they have nailed a good balance of fun and detail. Kiwi Ears has a fun yet well balanced tonality with decent detail with the Division. This has a relaxed V shape tuning with emphasis on the mid bass. The versatile tuning of the Division is a nice gateway for beginner audiophiles, gamers or just in general music enthusiasts to get into quality headphones in a budget. Lets talk about the sound in more detail.

Bass
Let's delve into the bass performance of the Division. Kiwi Ears has gone for a bass forward tuning focusing more on the mid bass. The sub bass, although not as forward, is strong and impactful. The mid bass has authority delivering decent punch when the music calls for it. This is not a bass head type bass but general bass lovers will enjoy. Speed and tactility is standard to slow type. Bass note separation and bass detail is satisfactory considering the price. Body and layering is decent. Decay and reverberation is fine. I enjoyed the fun type approach they have gone for the Division.

Mids
Moving on to the midrange, the Division takes a warm and relaxed approach with some extra shimmer in the upper mids. Transition from the mid bass to the lower mids is warm as a result of bass bleed. Male vocals sound a bit recessed. Female vocals are clean, natural and has some extra crispness because of the forward upper mids. Instruments, similar to the vocals are also clean but not very forward. There was no major sibilance or harshness issue. Personally I quite like the natural, warm presentation of the mids.

Treble
Proceeding on to the treble section, Kiwi Ears has opted for a slightly forward tuning for the Division. I find the subtle lift pairs quite nicely with the other frequencies. Details are clean and crisp. There is a nice level of energy bringing some liveliness to the music. There is no major harshness or sibilance issue. The speed is standard, Personally, I find this tuning quite enjoyable with my library. The airy presentation enhances the sense of space in the soundstage.

Technical Sound:
Soundstage of the Division is standard, wider than average close backs at this price. All three plains are decent. Stage depth is good. Layering is fine.
Imaging is good. It is quite easy to pin point instruments in the soundstage.
Sound separation and layering is decent
Cohesiveness is good
Resolution is ok
Dynamics are ok
Timbre is standard

Tested With
Source: cayin ru7, questyle m15, tempotec v3, ifi go blu, apple type c dongle, ipod classic 7th gen
Pads: stock
Cable: stock
Music: Tested with versatile genre of music



So to conclude the review, do I recommend this set and who is this for?
Yes, I highly recommend this set. If you are looking for a starter close back headphone or just a budget headphone with good sound quality, this is a solid option. Personally I loved this set, and been using this for quite a while now.


I hope, I was able to provide some idea about this product and help you make a purchase decision.
What I find interesting is, Kiwi Ears being mainly an iem manufacturer, they did a pretty phenomenal job making their first headphone, big props to them.
And huge thanks to you all for sticking around, see yall in the next one.

#kiwiears #division #headphone

DJ Headphone? Lots of Mid-bass!!​

Kiwi Ears Division​

This might be my first impression of a headphone, so if there are any shortcomings, please bear with me. When I found out that Kiwi Ears released a headphone, I was quite curious since, as far as I know, they’ve never made one before. With the label "monitor/DJ Headphone" on the box, I was intrigued to see what kind of tuning they went for in this headphone.
So, let's get straight to it... Kiwi Ears Division

==DISCLAIMER==​

All impressions were tested using my usual setup (listed below). So if you hear differences in sound impressions, the most likely reasons would be differences in our subjective hearing, a defective unit, or the source used.All my impressions and reviews are purely subjective, following my belief that "the only thing I lie to is my savings account—my reviews are always honest." Agree? Cool. Disagree? Also cool. I review because I want to and enjoy doing it, not because I have to. Haha.

Important! I still recommend auditioning it yourself. Who knows? Maybe I need to see an ENT doctor... or maybe you do. (LOL)

Click to expand...

==MY DAILY DRIVERS==​

IEMs:
Nostalgia Audio Camelot; Symphonium Crimson; 634ears Loak2 TX03; Timeless II; EPZ P50; Elysian x Effect Audio Pilgrim Noir
DACs:
Fiio Q15; Chord Mojo 2; XDuoo XD05 Pro
DAPs:
HibyDigital M300, Fiio JM21
Cables:
Effect Audio 24c; Verus Lavender 6; VJC Heirs & Black Heirs; Kinera Mia
Ear Tips:
Eletech Baroque; Penon Liquer; JVC Spiral Dot++; Azla Sedna Max ASMR; Kiwi Ears Flex

==Unboxing==​

For a price around $80, the box is really compact and straight to the point. Inside, you get:

• The headphone itself
• A 3.5mm to 6.3mm jack adapter
• Two cables with 3.5mm jacks on both ends (one shorter with a mic, one longer without)
• Documentation

==Fitting==​

With its dynamic driver configuration and over-ear design, this headphone is definitely more comfortable for me compared to on-ear headphones. The earpads aren’t that big (or maybe my ears are just too big? LOL), but they do cover my ears well without feeling tight since the pads are thick enough.The cable only connects on the left side, which makes it convenient—especially for monitoring and DJ use (as stated on the box) since it allows for easier movement. It can fold inward and rotate 90 degrees for easy storage, and the tilting mechanism adds to the usability. The headband is soft enough and can be extended to fit different head sizes.

==Sound Impression==​

Note: Base testing with XDuoo XD05 Pro, Fiio Q15, and stock ear tips & cable.

Click to expand...

Bass
The mid-bass is punchy—not just punchy but really meaty. If you're a bass lover, especially mid-bass, this will probably be right up your alley because it really hits your eardrums with a satisfying impact. However, the mid-bass is a bit too boomy, making it overpowering and masking other frequencies, especially vocals.The sub-bass is quite minimal, with a very short rumble. The slam is meaty, but because of the short rumble, the immersive effect of the headphone isn't maximized. If you’re after strong mid-bass for that thump-thump effect, this is perfect. But if you’re looking for deep sub-bass rumble or a wide, immersive soundstage, it falls short.
Mid
Vocals are clearly not the main focus of this headphone, but that doesn't mean they're bad. The timbre is natural and well-balanced across male and female vocals in low, mid, and high registers without any coloration.Male vocals in the lower range don’t sound muddy or bloated, and female vocals in the higher range aren’t shouty or sibilant. The positioning is slightly pulled back but still centered. Even though vocals aren’t the highlight, they sound "correct" and well-executed.
Treble
The treble is a mixed bag. On the positive side, it has enough power to avoid sounding recessed or hidden. If you're not a treble fan, this will likely be comfortable since the treble delivery is well-balanced.However, the downside is that the treble timbre lacks clarity, especially in the upper treble. Instruments like cymbal crashes sound unnatural. Additionally, micro-details don’t come through well, so a lot of finer details are missing.
Clarity
The overly punchy and boomy mid-bass affects other frequencies. The slightly unclear upper treble makes it sound less natural. Micro-details are definitely not this headphone’s strong suit.
Soundstage
Average. For an over-ear headphone, the soundstage is just okay—not too spacious, but not too narrow either.
Imaging
The 3D imaging is decent, and the sound feels like it moves around your head. However, because of the lack of micro-detail and layering, pinpointing instruments in complex tracks can be a bit challenging.

==Conclusion==​

• For a sub-$80 (under 1 million IDR) headphone aimed at monitoring/DJ use, I can see why it fits that purpose well.
• With a focus on punchy mid-bass, this headphone is perfect for fast-paced genres like EDM. The thick but fast sub-bass and short rumble indicate that sub-bass is not the main focus, making it well-suited for electronic music lovers.
• The natural and uncolored vocals are solid. Treble has decent power, and while it lacks micro-detail, it still works well for monitoring needs.
• Is this headphone worth buying? If you need a monitoring/DJ headphone with strong mid-bass and don’t prioritize technicalities or vocal clarity, then yes—it’s more than sufficient. Plus, it’s comfortable enough for long sessions.

That’s all.
Work hard so you can afford to check out without looking at the price.
Bye.

Preface:

You can purchase Divison at the following link (not an affiliate link):
https://www.linsoul.com/products/kiwi-ears-division?_pos=3&_fid=6dea8de35&_ss=c

Also, I’m not a seasoned reviewer, so whatever I say is purely my observations and your results may vary.

I’m not the one to usually focus on specifications and numbers. I focus more on how happy I am with the equipment’s sound and that’s it.

Disclaimer: This is a review unit from Linsoul however I retain full editorial control and the opinions expressed here are solely my own. I have not been paid or compensated by Linsoul, Kiwi Ears or any other entity for this review. My assessment is based solely on my personal experience with the product.

I do get to keep the unit after review but that had no influence over the opinions expressed below.

Linsoul Store links (None of them are affiliate links):

Linsoul website: https://www.linsoul.com/
Linsoul Aliexpress Store: https://ddaudio.aliexpress.com/store/2894006
Linsoul USA Amazon Store link: https://www.amazon.com/s?me=A267P2DT104U3C&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Sources used:

• iBasso DC Elite
• iBasso D16 Taipan
• Hiby RS6 (with and without Ampersand)
• Onix Overture XM5
• Violectric V590²
• Gungnir A2 + Auralic Taurus MK2

Introduction:

Kiwi Ears has quickly made a name for themselves in the audio world with their impressive lineup of IEMs. They've consistently delivered high-quality sound and innovative designs at surprisingly affordable prices, garnering a loyal following among audio enthusiasts. I've personally been a big fan of their IEMs, especially the Cadenza, Orchestra Lite, Quintet, and KE4, all of which offer exceptional value and performance. Now, Kiwi Ears is venturing into the world of over-ear headphones with the Division, their first attempt at a full-size headphone. It's exciting to see what this innovative company can bring to a new product category, and the Division certainly has some big shoes to fill, given the high bar set by their IEMs.

Box Contents:

• Kiwi Ears Division
• 3.5mm female to 6.35mm male adaptor
• 2 headphone cables (1 X Long coiled and 1 X short with Mic)
• User Manual

Specifications:

• Frequency Response :20Hz – 20kHz
• Sensitivity : 98dB+/-3dB / 108db/V@1KHz
• Impedance : 32Ω
• Driver Type : 40mm Dynamic Driver
• Colors : Black / Silver

Unboxing Experience:

The Kiwi Ears Division arrives in a fairly compact and unassuming package. Inside, you'll find the headphones themselves, along with two detachable cables—one coiled and one straight with inbuilt mic—and a 3.5mm female to 6.35mm male adapter. There's also a basic user manual, but no other accessories to speak of. The unboxing experience is functional and straightforward, but not particularly memorable.





Design and Build:

The Division sports a classic over-ear design with a mostly plastic construction. While the build quality is decent for the price, it doesn't exude a particularly premium feel. The earcups are made of aluminum, which adds a touch of durability, but the overall aesthetic is rather understated. The headphones are lightweight and foldable, making them reasonably portable. However, the plastic hinges and overall construction don't inspire immense confidence in terms of long-term durability.











Wearing Comfort:

The Kiwi Ears Division is generally comfortable for extended listening sessions. The lightweight design and ample headband padding prevent hotspots from forming on top of the head. However, the earpads are a bit thin, and the earcups themselves are somewhat shallow. This can lead to your ears touching the inner driver housing, which may become uncomfortable for some users, especially those with larger ears.



Driveability:

The Division is relatively easy to drive and can be powered by dongles. However, it definitely benefits from quality amplification. Initially, I was underwhelmed by its performance when driven by a dongle. The sound felt somewhat compressed and lacking in dynamics. But when I connected it to my desktop setup with a Violectric V590² / Auralic Taurus MK2 and more powerful portable sources like iBasso D16 and Centrance Ampersand, the Division truly opened up. The bass became tighter and more controlled, the soundstage expanded, and the overall presentation gained a level of clarity and detail that was previously missing. This suggests that the Division scales well with better amplification and source gear.





Sound Analysis:

Tonality:

The Kiwi Ears Division leans towards a warm, full-bodied sound signature with a touch of sparkle in the upper midrange. This isn't a neutral headphone by any stretch, but the coloration is generally agreeable, adding a touch of richness to the overall presentation. However, this warmth can sometimes veer into over-smoothness, particularly with genres that benefit from a cleaner, more neutral presentation, such as classical or jazz.

Sub-Bass:

The sub-bass is one of the Division's strengths. It reaches deep, delivering a satisfying rumble that's surprisingly tight and controlled for a single dynamic driver. Listening to "Limit to Your Love" by James Blake, the sub-bass presence is undeniable, adding weight and impact to the track without any hint of muddiness. The decay is well-managed, preventing the low end from becoming boomy or overwhelming. However, venturing into the depths of "Chameleon" by Trentemøller revealed a slight roll-off in the very lowest frequencies. It's not a deal-breaker, but something to note for hardcore bassheads.

Mid-Bass:

The mid-bass is a bit of a mixed bag. It's undeniably punchy and impactful, adding a visceral slam to tracks like "Bad Guy" by Billie Eilish. However, this emphasis on mid-bass can sometimes be a bit overzealous, leading to bloat and muddiness in the lower midrange. This can affect the clarity and definition of instruments like cellos and acoustic guitars, making them sound less distinct and detailed. Interestingly, I found that this mid-bass bloat was somewhat mitigated when using sources with quality amplification, such as the iBasso D16 and Auralic Taurus. These sources seemed to provide better control and definition in the low end, resulting in a cleaner and more balanced presentation.

Lower Midrange:

The lower midrange is slightly forward and warm, adding a sense of fullness to vocals and instruments. Male vocals, like those in "The Sound of Silence" by Disturbed, have a rich, authoritative presence, while female vocals, like Adele's in "Hello," possess a captivating depth and emotionality. However, the mid-bass bleed can sometimes muddy the waters in this region, reducing clarity and separation.

Upper Midrange:

This is where the Division adds a touch of sparkle. The upper midrange is clear, detailed, and slightly forward, giving vocals and instruments a crisp, articulate quality. Listening to "Hotel California" by The Eagles, the guitars have a beautiful shimmer and bite, while the vocals are presented with excellent clarity. However, this emphasis can occasionally lead to a hint of harshness with poorly recorded tracks, and some listeners might find the upper midrange a bit shouty at times.

Lower Treble:

The lower treble is generally well-controlled, providing a good amount of detail and presence without becoming fatiguing. Cymbal crashes in "In the Air Tonight" by Phil Collins have a realistic shimmer and decay, adding to the track's atmospheric quality. However, I did notice a slight dip in the lower treble, which occasionally resulted in a subtle loss of detail in this region.

Upper Treble:

The Division's upper treble is extended and airy, adding a sense of space and openness to the soundstage. There's a hint of sparkle that adds excitement to high-frequency details, but it never veers into sibilance territory. "Clair de Lune" by Debussy showcases this beautifully, with the piano notes sounding delicate and ethereal. However, those seeking a truly dazzling and energetic treble response might find the upper treble a bit restrained.

Soundstage:

The Division's soundstage is one of its strengths. It's wide, deep, and surprisingly tall, creating an immersive listening experience. Listening to "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen, I felt like I was in the recording studio, with the various instruments and vocals placed precisely around me. However, while the soundstage is spacious, it's not the absolute widest I've experienced, particularly compared to some open-back headphones.

Layering and Separation:

The Division generally excels at layering and separation. Even in complex orchestral pieces like "Jupiter" from Gustav Holst's The Planets, individual instruments are easily discernible, with a clear sense of space between them. Vocals are placed front and center, while instruments are arranged in a realistic and coherent manner. However, the mid-bass bloat can sometimes hinder separation in the lower frequencies, making it harder to distinguish individual instruments in busy passages.

Timbre:

The Division's timbre is mostly natural and realistic, with a slight warmth that adds a touch of richness to instruments and vocals. Acoustic instruments, like guitars and pianos, sound particularly lifelike, while electronic instruments have a satisfying weight and impact. However, there are moments where the timbre can veer slightly towards the artificial, particularly with certain vocals and synthesizers, and the overly warm tonality can sometimes make instruments sound less natural.

Detail Retrieval:

The Division is surprisingly adept at detail retrieval. It digs deep into recordings, revealing subtle nuances and micro-details that I've never noticed before. Listening to "Teardrop" by Massive Attack, I was struck by the intricate textures in the background, which added a whole new dimension to the track which was surprising for a headphone at this price point.

Coherence:

The Division's coherence is generally good. Each part of the frequency response blends reasonably well with the others, creating a mostly unified and harmonious presentation. However, the mid-bass emphasis can sometimes disrupt this coherence, creating a slight disconnect between the bass and the lower midrange.

Conclusion:

The Kiwi Ears Division is a commendable first attempt at headphones from a company known for its IEMs. At $50, it offers an attractive package that combines comfort, an engaging sound signature, and respectable technical capabilities. The Division's appeal lies in its fun and enjoyable presentation, particularly for those who appreciate a warm, bass-forward sound. However, potential buyers should be aware of its tendency towards mid-bass bloat and a somewhat restrained treble, which may not suit all listening preferences or genres. Overall, the Division is a decent all-rounder that delivers a satisfying musical experience for the price, and it hints at promising things to come from Kiwi Ears in the headphone space.

Review Of The Kiwi Ears Division​

Introduction​

I’ve been eagerly waiting for the arrival of headphones from various companies, but I never imagined Kiwi Ears would enter this market so swiftly. Kiwi Ears is a well-known Chinese electroacoustic company that has been producing audiophile-favorite in-ear monitors, affordable DAC/AMPs, and now headphones. The company has been engaged in extensive research and development of their products, particularly their IEMs, and has released them without any breaks. Surprisingly, they have garnered a massive following among audiophiles, and I’m one of them. Regardless of their previous offerings, Kiwi Ears’ entry into the headphone market is on a whole new level. Many companies have attempted and failed in their initial attempts to create headphones, and I fear the same for Kiwi Ears with their Division release. Fortunately, I was fortunate enough to get my hands on one to determine whether it’s a hit or a miss. However, before delving further, I’d like to clarify a few points.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by the kindly people at Kiwi Ears, I am grateful to them. 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 headphones as “Division.”
*I am using different ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Division based on its performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.
*Please understand that all opinions expressed in this review are my personal perspective and are not intended to offend anyone’s beliefs or experiences. Therefore, I kindly request a respectful and thoughtful approach to this review, even if it differs from your viewpoint.
*Apologies for the delayed review of these headphones. I eagerly awaited another excellent contender in this price range, the Takstar Pro 82, to arrive. Unfortunately, due to some complexities and workarounds, they never cleared customs in my country.

Specifications​

The Division headphones feature a closed-back design with a 40mm composite dynamic driver in each earcup. The plastic headband swivels to one side and folds inwards, making them convenient for storage. The earpads are generic and come with the headphones, similar to those found on budget-friendly headphones. The headband ends are marked with “L” and “R,” and the body of the earcups on the outside bear the Kiwi Ears logo on both sides. Accessories include a 1/4 inch adapter with two cables. Each cable has a single-ended 3.5mm jack, one for the headphones and the other for the source. One cable is long and extendable, while the other has a built-in microphone with a single button. Technically, the headphones have an impedance of 32 ohms and a sensitivity of 98dB. Their frequency response range spans from 20Hz to 20kHz.

Design & Build​

Now, let’s talk about the design. It’s quite similar to the Audio Technica M50x, but it’s not as sturdy. I believe the Divisions have a good build and can last long, but I’m not sure what to expect from a $50 headphone. The plastic quality is generic, and durability isn’t its strong suit, but it proved me wrong, I believe.

As for the earpads, they’re also generic, but they’re cheap and can cover average-sized ears easily.

During my commutes and some rough handling while taking and keeping them in my backpack, I’m not confident, but I do think that these headphones are built well for the price. However, this is just my personal experience, and I still feel like they could break if I’m not careful.

The cables are similar to those that come with Bluetooth speakers, but they’re better made and molded specifically for headphones. The mic on the shorter cable is similar to the Koss KPH30i and works great too.

Overall, I find the design to be very casual and easy to use. The lightweight body makes them convenient and easy to handle, even though they look a bit flimsy. In my testing, they turned out to be sturdy.

Usage​

Now, since I mentioned earlier that I used this headphone while commuting, I’d like to share that I also used them at home for critical listening. Honestly, I didn’t expect comfort from the earpads, and they weren’t very comfortable. On the other hand, the pressure on my head from the cups was perfect, and I was able to tolerate the pads for longer hours.

I must admit that I was a bit careless when using this outside. I would take them out of my backpack, put them inside, or rest them on my shoulder while the cable got tangled and stretched out. But I was amazed by how durable this headphone was.

Regarding using this with different sources, I genuinely never felt underpowered with any source, whether it was my LG G8X or my FiiO M15S. However, when I plugged them into my Aune X7S, a desktop Class-A amplifier, the drivers distorted while listening to music. The bass sounded bloated and too boomy, which I believe is a result of either overamplification or an incompatible source.

I should mention that these headphones have powerful bass that I personally didn’t find bleed into the mids. However, I spoke to people who own Division and complained that the bass is too boomy and overpowering. So, I tried different earpads, especially deep ones, and found that the bass was significantly improved and less prominent. This helped the midrange to sound a bit tamed and balanced the treble.

The passive noise cancellation was truly great. It effectively isolated me from the crowd and allowed me to focus on the music. However, it’s important to note that Division aren’t like noise-canceling headphones. The effectiveness of the noise cancellation depends on how well they seal around the head, and I believe they are effective for average-sized ears.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed using these headphones and encountered no issues. The only drawbacks were the discomfort of the earpads and the amplifier issue. I understand that readers may be concerned about sweat and warmth buildup inside the earcups, but since it’s winter, I can’t provide much information. I’m not sure how they’ll perform in the summer. However, I believe these earpads are ideal for keeping the ears warm.

Sound​

After thoroughly evaluating this headphones from various perspectives and criteria, I must say that I believe they are indeed DJ headphones and, to an extent, a great basshead audiophile headphone. They offer an enjoyable and exciting listening experience, especially considering their affordable price point of $50. However, I am slightly skeptical about their suitability for mixing.

I have primarily observed mixing professionals using specifically open-back headphones. Nevertheless, I believe this headphones could work well for mixing, considering their tuning. Although I am not a technical expert, I feel confident in my assessment.

Now, let’s talk about the sound. They do sound like an In-Ear Monitor (IEM) that covers the ear, but more specifically, a basshead IEM, which is why I mentioned Division as a basshead headphone. The tuning is quite easy to understand. The bass region features a bass shelf that gradually descends and flattens out before 300Hz, resulting in less bloated and boomy bass. However, they provide excellent body to the overall presentation and give the mids a warm quality. The upper midrange and lower treble are well-forwarded to compensate for the impactful bass, which it achieves effortlessly and cleanly.

Another reason why I consider this headphones good is that Kiwi Ears designed them without any unique or proprietary technology. They simply took the body of a headphone, two drivers, and a bit of dampening. Of course, I haven’t opened this headphones to inspect the internals, but honestly, it doesn’t matter for such an affordable pair.

Now, let’s delve deeper into the critical evaluation of this headphones before reaching a verdict.

Bass ​

On the graph, this headphone showed a really well-emphasized frequency range from 30Hz to 250Hz, which is great on paper. However, while listening, the bass tends to sound thumping and booming, which can sometimes become a bit bloated. This was the result of pairing this headphones with a Class A amplifier.

When I listened to this headphones with low gain or any other device with a headphone jack, the response sounded well-controlled, bodied, and dynamic. Of course, I have other headphones that are much better in terms of bass delivery, offering better impact, resolution, and dynamics. However, I found this headphones to be really well-done for the price.

The drums, kicks, toms, and bass slams sound full-bodied and hit hard without overemphasizing or sounding booming over the overall presentation. Listening to tracks from Skrillex, such as “Taka,” “Rumble,” and “Xena,” the drops were deep, impactful, and hard-hitting, well-controlled and composed.

While listening to metal tracks like “Skin & Bones” by Silverstein and “Thy Art Is Murder” by Keres, the drums, toms, and bass slams sounded meaty and weighty. However, busy sections of this tracks made it difficult to hear the upper frequencies.

Mid Range​

Now, I’m particularly impressed with these headphones because, on their first attempt, Kiwi Ears managed to achieve a closed-back design that delivers great sound quality, particularly in the midrange. The response has a good emphasis in the midrange that allows forwardness and liveliness to blend well, making the vocals the center stage while the instruments complement them. The notes didn’t have any sharpness or peakiness, resulting in a soft sound.

The female vocals have a nice body and lack weight, which gives them a pleasant tonality and cleanliness. In contrast, the male vocals have good girth. The instruments, whether percussion, strings, or others, sound wholesome and well-presented in the mix, but the contrast between them was lacking. Overall, the response is forward, energetic, and lively.

For example, listening to tracks like “Labyrinth” by Hockrockb, the vocals sounded forward and clean, with a good body and spread-out sound. However, there were a few “ss” sounds that became noticeable. Regarding the instruments, they sounded rich and well-presented, blending seamlessly with the vocals.

Another track, “The Feels” by Labrinth, sounded well-flourished. The vocals, whether female or male, were well-presented. The male vocals had the right weight and tone, while the female vocals were too dense to sound airy and expressive.

Treble ​

Another fantastic aspect of these headphones is their treble region. It’s exceptionally well-extended, sounding complete and full without any sibilance or harshness in the upper or lower frequencies. This is achieved thanks to the emphasis in the 100-200Hz range, which creates a warm and balanced sound.

The overall presentation of the notes is warm and rich, rather than lean and crisp. The treble is well-extended and has a good sense of space and air for a closed-back headphone. The energy is well-controlled, which helps to maintain a tonally favorable sound. The lower treble also resonates well with the upper midrange, as the vocals and instruments have a forwardness and cleanliness that is both lively and lean.

Tracks like “Overfly” by Luna Haruna sounded exceptionally extended, with the vocals sounding fuller and more open, and the instruments like cymbals and percussion having clear and well-defined notes.

Technical Specifications​

Well, to be honest, I don’t find much out of the ordinary when it comes to speaking about technical aspects of the Division. Most closed-back headphones don’t sound great for technical prowess, whether it’s the staging, resolution, or separation. The same can be said for other closed-back headphones I’ve compared them to.

When it comes to staging, imaging, and separation, I don’t have much to say except that the imaging is clean but not precise. The staging is wide enough to sound spacious for a closed-back headphone, but the separation between the notes is not very distinctive.

Now, the resolution is quite good. The macro details are well-surfaced, while the micro details suffer. The attack and decay of the notes are quick-paced, which is enough to prevent the sound from sounding muddy or messy.

Impressions & Comparisons ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - While listening to Division with WM1A, the response sounded more balanced and mature, with better control across the entire frequency spectrum. The bass was a bit loose but warm, less punchy yet thick, especially compared to other pairings. The midrange was airy and open, particularly the female vocals, and even the instruments sounded vibrant and lively with excellent distinction. In terms of the treble, the response was refined in my opinion. It was as extended as before but smoother and better in revealing the notes.



FiiO M15S - While listening to Division with M15S, the response was energetic across the entire frequency spectrum, allowing for a wider range of expressions and greater impact. The bass was punchier and more controlled, while the midrange had a forwarded but slightly clustered response. The treble region was well-emphasized, resulting in a clearer and shimmering sound.

Comparisons​

AKG K361 and Division



To be honest, conducting an A&B test revealed that the K361 sounded more artificial than the Division. The reason behind this is that the Division offered a more immersive and prominent bass presence during listening. Additionally, the vocals and instruments in the Division were better expressed and tonally rich. However, when it comes to the overall presentation, the K361 excels. It surpasses the Division in terms of its comprehensive presentation, revealing more details and achieving a better balance and note revelation. Despite its higher price point, I had expected the K361 to deliver overall better sound.

Division and Sony MDR7506



Well, in my opinion, the revealing set and perhaps a bit too much is the 7506. It offers better contrast and clarity. However, it’s worth noting that the lean factor across the presentation makes the Division a favorable choice. As the notes have a better body and weight, they sound warm, rich, and more balanced in terms of dynamics and forwardness. Now that I know K361 is as expensive as the 7506, I believe the 7506 has a more airy and revealing sound compared to the K361, while the Division has a richer and more dynamic sound than the 7506.

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
Hockrockb - Labyrinth
Luna Haruna - Overfly
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
Skrillex - Rumble
Skrillex - Xena
Skrillex - Taka Taka
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
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
Labrinth - The Feels
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
Gotye - 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
Keres - Thy Art is Murder
Silverestein - Skin & Bones
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

Verdict​

Division is undoubtedly one of the best choices within the $50 price segment, which is why I believe Kiwi Ears offered this at the most affordable price possible. Considering the convenience and sound quality, it makes perfect sense for someone with a budget of $50-60 to spend on a fun and engaging headphone. While I understand that bassheads will likely appreciate this, I can’t comment on their suitability for mixing professionals since I haven’t had the opportunity to try other professional-grade headphones in this price range. I was particularly excited to compare this to the Takstar Pro 82. However, I must reiterate that I love these headphones just as much as I love my AKG K361 and Sony MDR 7506. These casual wear headphones are suitable for basic consumers because they tend to sound very favorable towards the general population, similar to any Harman-tuned product. Therefore, I can confidently recommend these headphones based on their price, performance, and convenience. However, I wish they had a bit more comfortable earpads.

A nice budget studio headphone from Kiwi Ears​

Kiwi Ears, a company renowned for some exceptional in-ear monitors (IEMs) such as the Orchestra Lite and KE4 (both
are amongst my favourites ever IEMs), has now ventured into the over ear headphone market with their latest offering, the Kiwi Ears Division. Priced at just $50, the Division is positioned as an ultra budget studio headphone. So is it any good?





There is an excellent and growing trend where IEM-focused brands like Moondrop, FiiO, and now Kiwi Ears are entering the headphone space. At its price point, the Division stands out as an option for those looking for an affordable, entry-level studio headphone and after having spent a month with the Division I would like to share my thoughts, specifically in this review at both what you get out of the box but in my opinion where this headphone shines, is it a great headphone to start out a journey into with headphone customisation and experimentation.

Read on to find out what customisations I would recommend, but let’s start with what you get out of the box:

Unboxing Experience​

The Kiwi Ears Division comes in a very small minimalistic box, typical of ultra budget headphones:



The back of the box is also more consumer targeted rather than typical audiophile so no specifications. But, for those interested, I have them later in the review:


Opening the box reveals again minimal packaging:



Taking everything out of box:



And then taking the headphones out of their packaging:



While it lacks the premium unboxing experience of higher-priced models, it is perfectly fine at its price point.

Design, Build Quality, and Comfort​

While Kiwi Ears saved money on the packaging, the Division headphone itself showcases some solid build choices with a lightweight plastic chassis:


It immediately reminded me of a classic studio reference headphone like my Sony MDR-M1:

Cables​

The 2 cables that come with the Division are reasonable for a $50 headphone. One longer one with a spring-loaded extension mechanism:

and the other with a much more convenient remote control on the cable:



I like the button control (play / pause and launch Siri on long press) on the cable:



This cable is also has a decent microphone (for the price) in this button control .

Build Quality​

While the overall construction is predominantly plastic, the Division feels sturdy enough to withstand regular use and have a single 3.5mm entry on the left side earpad. A design typical of studio headphones:

Comfort​

I really like the headband comfort and padding, very typical of this design but with decent padding:


The extension mechanism was reasonable good at this price point:



And crucially there is some flexibility with the swivel for fitting your ears:



But I am not a fan of the stock earpads, they are small and not very deep. They actually reminded me on the type of earcups you get on cheaper ANC headphones rather than a studio headphone:


But, luckily the Division have used a standard mechanism with these ear pads so super easy to replace with easy to buy alternative earpads.

So, if the stock earpads do not suite you, there are lots of options with this design including very large earpads, for example, here are a large velvet earpads that look massive compared to the stock ones yet still fit nicely on the Division:


I will include a section later where I both used, but also measured a bunch of alternative ear pads, as that can be a problem with alternative earpads they can change the sound signature and not always for the better.

But let look at the driver first:

Accessing the Driver​

So removing the stock earpads is super easy, while the stock earpads are small they have a very small edge to attach to the earcups:


Once removed you see that there is a simple cloth covers over the drivers:



Zooming in on each:



One wasn’t attached as well but doesn’t really affect the sound:



They are attached with glue but can be easily removed:



To finally reveal the 40mm driver:



Again, given it is a $50 headphone I should not expect too much and this does seem like a price appropriate driver.

But given the overall headphone comfort and flexibility it is very good that you have 3 screws here to remove the plastic covering the driver:


Removing the screws give you full access to the driver:



Here it is zoomed in:



I can imagine swapping this driver with a better quality one with little effort.

Before we delve further in customisation, you might be wondering what they sound like out of the box. So lets get into the sound quality:

Sound Quality​

So, the Kiwi Ears Division with the stock earpads delivers a bass heavy V-shaped sound signature rather than a studio reference sound but given the comfort and the flexibility of switching to alternative earpads for those who like that bass heavy sound signature this might be a great headphone.

Also, I can imagine this could be a great first headphone for someone who like to “tinker” with things. They might initially buy some cheap alternative earpads for extra comfort, then play with EQ to find their perfect sound signature, and maybe look at alternative drivers. Given its price it can be a fun way to get into this aspect of the hobby.

But let’s get into some of the details of what it sounds like:

Bass​

The bass is a very bloated for my tastes, with a large mid-bass boost. Tracks like “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish did showcase the Division’s ability to deliver sub-bass frequencies, though with the stock earpads the mid-bass does bleed into the midrange.

Midrange​

The midrange is slightly recessed, but I found for female vocals it had some nice clarity. On tracks like “Someone Like You” by Adele, the headphone captures the emotional nuances of her voice with clarity and warmth.

Treble​

The treble has a slight emphasis in the upper registers, which adds sparkle and airiness. While this tuning works well for detail retrieval, some listeners might find it a touch fatiguing, particularly at higher volumes.

Soundstage and Imaging​

As a closed-back headphone, the soundstage is somewhat limited but still offers a reasonable sense of space. Imaging is precise, allowing for accurate placement of instruments and vocals in the mix. Live recordings, like “Hotel California ( Live)” by Eagles, sound engaging and immersive, though that bass does mess up the clarity a little.

Specifications and Measurements​

With an impedance of 32 Ω and a sensitivity of 98 dB/mW, the Kiwi Ears Division is very easy to drive and pairs well with portable devices like smartphones and entry-level DAC/amps. This combined with the easy options for folding the Division make it a great portable headphone and also means it can take EQ easily while still be driven from a smartphone.

Measurements​

Note: The following measurements were taken with my KB501X soft ear Pinna and a 711 clone coupler. They are available on my measurement database here.

Frequency Response​

As I mentioned earlier, with the stock earpads the Kiwi Ears Division has a V-shaped frequency response, with a deep mid-bass response, a recessed midrange and an elevated treble:



This sound signature can sound fun but is obviously not a reference sound signature.

Removing the foam cover material covering the driver you tame both the bass and the treble with the stock pads:

Distortion​

Distortion levels are well within acceptable ranges:


And as a percentage:

Alternative Earpads​

So, as I mentioned earlier, given the flexibility and general comfort of this headphone I thought it might be useful to try different earpads and I had bought a bunch of earpads on a recent Aliexpress sale so thought lets try a few and then measure some of the best of these alternative earpads:

So firstly I went for these nice material earpads:​

These were nice but a little small on my ears.

Next I tried a bigger version of those​

These were excellent, but I thought they change the sound signature again making it even more bassy.

I then tried a large velvet earpads​

These were exceptional comfortable but again changed the sound signature in the wrong direction.

I then tried the earpads from my Sony’s​

I found these were excellent and I decided to buy a similar third party earpads for $9.

So, these earpads are nice a deep:



In the end, these last earpads were the right size for me, much smaller than the large velvet earpads but easily large enough and comfortable deep enough for my ears:

These also changed the sound signature for the better:



I would still use EQ, especially fix the ear-gain ‘presence’ region, but these earpads do tame this headphone significantly.

I also like how the headphones fold flat even with these Custom earpads:

EQ Recommendation​

For an EQ recommendation and I would definitely recommend some EQ for this headphone for any “serious” listening but the default sound signature with the default earpads has a “fun” sound that will appeal to many people.

For the stock earpads here is what I would do to tame the V-shaped sound:

Preamp: -6.2 dB
Filter 1: ON PK Fc 150 Hz Gain -10.8 dB Q 0.700
Filter 2: ON PK Fc 350 Hz Gain 10.1 dB Q 1.700
Filter 3: ON PK Fc 1600 Hz Gain 3.9 dB Q 2.000
Filter 4: ON PK Fc 10000 Hz Gain -5.2 dB Q 0.500

These should turn the much more neutral sound headphone:



Overall with this EQ, the comfort, options for alternative earpads and the cost make it a good headphone for the price.

Rating​

I’ve given the Kiwi Ears Division an 4-star rating. While the stock earpads hold it back, the combination of excellent comfort, decent customisablity, and exceptional value make it a compelling option for budget-conscious listeners starting out in this hobby. For my personal tastes I would recommend EQ to tame the bloated bass of the stock earpads. Since I have a few usb dongle that can apply PEQ filters and given its cost and comfort, I found this is a great headphone to fold up and pop into a bag to bring to my office, here it is with a FiiO JA11:



So the Division can be one of those devices which offers enough for a beginner to start with enough customisable options to bring it to various levels before eventually if they like the headphone customisation experience, then moving onto to the next level of headphones, so in summary a great starter headphone for those on a budget that like to experiment.

Conclusion​

The Kiwi Ears Division is a solid debut into the headphone market from a company better known for its IEMs. At just $50, it offers a versatile headphone that offers an excellent choice for those looking to explore how to enhance headphones without breaking the bank. While an earpad upgrade is highly recommended for improved comfort and sound, the Division remains an impressive entry-level headphone that deserves your attention.

Kiwi Ears Division – Kiwi’s First Headphone

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For those of you who prefer watching videos...

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Disclaimer, Introduction & Unboxing Photos

Kiwi Ears sent me this review sample in exchange for my honest opinions.

Kiwi Ears is a fairly young company and are already one of the darlings of the in-ear-monitor community for producing some absolutely high-end sounding products at very affordable prices.
They have quickly risen to being one of my favourite brands, so when I found out they were coming out with their very first headphones I was very excited to see what they come out with.

The Division is available in two flavours, black or silver, although the silver’s padding is a sort of dusty pink colour.

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Build, Design & Ergonomics

At just under 50 euros, the Division is an over-ear, closed back design that appears to be loosely based on similar looking Audio Technica, JVC and Sony studio headphone models.

In terms of aesthetics and fundamental shape and design is not obviously doing anything new.
The headband has a very decent amount of padding underneath and at least the sliders are reinforced with metal.

Unfortunately, while these do have a nifty folding mechanism that is great for portability, it is mainly supported by a C-shape piece of plastic to accommodate for the cable being fed from left to right over the headband.



I’ve seen so many of these types of folding designs in the past and they all eventually fail. Unless plastic technology has improved by orders of magnitude over the past 20 years, it’s not a matter of if, but when these fail, and anyone buying these needs to understand that these headphones need to be well cared for.

I expected the ear pads to be quite horrible, just looking at them, the stitching and pinching has poor consistency, but in reality the material feels almost like silicone and they appear to even contain something like a cheap memory foam, or at least a foam that mimics memory foam quite well.

The material of both the pads and headband feels better quality than the usual consumer-tier pleather and the inside of the pads is fabric which acts a bass trap, amplifying lower frequencies.



Inside the headphone is a moderately generic 40mm driver, which is tuned with a thin piece of fabric covered foam.
The driver itself is not the cheapest, lowest end driver available. I’ve seen the same or very similar drivers in higher-end gaming headsets, so I’m glad to see some decent effort go into these.

Inside the cups is a double cavity which is likely responsible for some of the tuning of the headphone.


The wearing comfort of the headphone is about average. I don’t find myself being distracted by it but neither am I in love with how it feels on the head.

Overall, I’m satisfied with the quality of the padding and ergonomics, but I have serious concerns about the quality of the folding hinge.

The Kiwi Ears Division also comes with 2 detachable cables.
One longer 'DJ/monitoring' cable, with a short coil and 6.3mm adapter.
One shorter 'portable' cable, with a microphone.

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The Sound

This is where things get a little messy.

I don’t like how this headphone sounds as it is.

Objectively, the driver is capable of producing a good amount of detail and even a very decent level of treble extension.
But immediately you are assaulted by boomy, bloomy mid-bass.

I was really hoping that these would be either the next Takstar Pro82, or a side-grade to the Creative Aurvana Live!.
Alas it is neither, but a revival of the old Monster Beats sound.



Looking at the graph, there is no escaping the frankly overwhelming 10dB mid-bass hump.

To be clear, this is a hump, not a bass shelf. If it was a shelf, one could remedy this by dropping some EQ around 120hz, which would make a nice separation between the bass and the midrange. Unfortunately it’s a hump, so in practice, it’s much harder and usually impossible to EQ a good quality bass shelf that doesn’t introduce distortion.

The mids and treble response is almost good. With an overall too bright-leaning tilt and a small peak around 6KHz, so vocals sound thin and upper frequencies are harsh and a little grating, or at least they would be if the bass wasn’t so overwhelming that it is actually relatively quiet to the overall sound.

Just imagine taking a really good studio headphone, suck out the mids a little and slap on some phat bass.
There isn’t a single genre of music that benefits from this tuning. It’s objectively quite awful.

Fortunately there is a solution*.
Edifier W820BT ear pads.


Out of all my pads these were the only ones that made a real improvement.

Not only do these bring down the bass hump considerably, but also puts the entire midrange and treble on a slight downwards tilt, bringing everything into relative balance.
The bass is still too strong and it rolls off even stronger than before, but if you look carefully, 20hz is practically in line with the midrange, and 10hz isn’t far off either.

Some other pads got quite close to this result, like after-market MDR-Z1000 and ATH-M50 pads, but they didn’t sound quite right.

YAXI stPad2-LR pads did the opposite and made an even stronger v-shaped sound than stock and exhibited quite poor wearing-position consistency, so those are to be completely avoided.

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The Sound (Modified)

With the W820BT pads, they now sound like very bassy studio monitor headphones.

Bass quality is still fairly mushy and a bit boomy, but at this price it can almost be forgiven, given the drastic improvements in the midrange and treble, which are quite frankly now very decent.

Comparing directly with other studio headphones like the JVC HA-MX100Z and Sony MDR-V6, the modified Division is not a serious competitor, but it is really starting to stand on it’s own.

I still wouldn’t use it for anything like accurate monitoring or content creation work, but purely as an outdoors headphone where boosted bass is actually necessary as it compensates against the perceived lack of bass caused by loud traffic, etc, I am starting to see a compelling argument for these existing and who might want to buy it.

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Conclusions

The reality is that it’s likely younger people who are looking to buy these; those who specifically have higher treble sensitivity and more specifically a thirst for bass, and in many cases a lower budget.

However, I still can’t bring myself to recommend this headphone.
The gold standard at the 50 Euro price point for the past 10 years has been the Creative Aurvana Live!, and these do not meet that standard.
Even after pad-rolling these don’t quite reach the quality of sound I’ve come to expect from Kiwi Ears, albeit from IEMs costing up to 3-5 times as much.

If these had a stronger headband hinge and better ear pad tuning, things might be different for me.
I may revisit these in future and try out some mods to tame the bass hump, but for now I’ll just have to hope that things improve in the future.

I watched a short video by HBB on the Kiwi Ears Division, and thought these would be good headphones to pick up for my kids. It was so cheap, I also picked one up for myself. This is my first review on here, so if there is anything I can improve, please let me know.

Impressions overall
I haven't seen any measurements, but what it sounds like to me so a flatter sound signature with a bass boost. There isn't much bass bloat, and the vocals are generally still clear, and the treble is also present but relaxed. The bass makes this a fun set to listen to. The mids and treble could be a bit more emphasized, but they still deliver a satisfactory performance.

Bass
The bass is the star of the show, but I am not sure if I would consider this a basshead set, as I have had things that were even heavier in Bass, such as the Symphonium Titan. There isn't enough bass to introduce bloat into the mids, but enough to bring warmth to the sound signature. The bass is clean and tastefully done. It could be a bit much for people who prefer neutral, but I think it has just enough to satisfy the average listener. Listening to songs that have a lot of bass such as Red Velvet's Psycho, the song seems to have some distortion added into the bass in the song, so it sounds really bad when it can't resolve bass well, but with the Division, it sounded really good.

Mids
Mids are a hit or miss on these. I would say that overall, it handles mids pretty well, but sometimes it sounds somewhat recessed. For example, 2Pac's Hit Em Up, while the bass is satisfying, because the mids sound a bit more recessed, you don't feel the anger in this voice. i don't know what causes some vocals to be recessed, others to sound normal, and others more forward. Vocals in IU's My Sea sounds too recessed for my liking, but sounds slightly forward on Seori's Long night. I thought maybe it has to do with the pitch of the voice, since IU's voice is on the higher side, but I am not sure. But overall, taking into account all the different songs I listened to, I would say that the mids are still satisfactory, but not euphoric like you might get on some sets that are more mid forward.

Treble
The treble is present, but it lacks the sparkle that some more treble forward sets would have. But this also means that in general, you won't be getting sibilance, unless the track is extremely sibilant. Some sets can render Kyla La grange & Kygo's Cut your teeth very sibilant, but it sounded good on these. But it's good enough in songs like New Jeans' - Super Shy, where the treble adds a lot to the song. But when it came to something like the violins in Vivaldi's 4 Seasons, it didn't really hit that properly to feel just right.

Comparison FiiO FT1

So the latest budget closedback darling has been the FiiO FT1. I currently have the ZMF Universe hybrid pads on it, and while it would be more idea to change back to the stock pads for comparison, it's a huge pain in the ass to change pads on these, so I will leave them. I didn't think it changed the sound too much, but it did just make it more comfrotable for me.

The FT1, is a more neutral headphone, and technically slightly superior to the Kiwi Ears Division. But that is to be expected at 3x the price, but it's also not by much. I personally like some warmth in my headphones, my favorite closed back being the ZMF Verite Closed with BE pads using the Feliks Echo Mk2 amp. So from a solid state amp, I actually prefer the sound from the Division, as it is a warmer and fuller sounding headphone. And the bass is way better on the division. In general, the FT1 has a little bass, which is enough for me, but it often lacks that satisfying bass hit.

Where the FT1 does. a lot better is in the treble details, which it has a lot more of, which can sometimes cause some tracks to be a bit too treble forward, but in general, it's really good. The FT1 also has slightly better mids, and as it has a lot less bass, it is overall a cleaner listen.

The FT1 really benefits from running them from tubes, as it introduces some of that warmth and body is it normally lacking. Where as tubes on the Kiwi Ears makes it a bit warmer than I like. I initially bought the FT1 to potentially take with me when traveling, but I think I am more likely to take the Division if I don't take my IEMs.


Set up:
DAC - Topping E50
Solid state amp - Topping L50
Tube amp - Feliks Echo Mk2 w Bugel boy tubes

Songs:
ADO - Show
2Pac - Hit Em Up
Jannabi - for lovers who hesitate
Seori - Long night
Red Velvet - Psycho
IVE - I am
Toaka - Cinder ella
New Jeans - Super Shy
Laufey - Lovesick
IU - My Sea
LeeHi - Only
Vivaldi - The 4 seasons
Oren Lavie - Her morning Elegance
Metallica - Fade to Black
Eminem - The way I am
Kyla La Grange & Kygo - Cut Your Teeth

Kiwi Ears Division:
Closed Back, "Studio" closed-back headphones.

Seem to be building up on the idea of cheap affordable Sony-style closed backs. $49 usd price!

Sound:
Bass has some wet extension bounce, and off my Lotoo PAW 6000 has some slam as well.

Mids,
Vocals are clear and not behind the stage.
No obvious problematic dips due to being closed-backs. I am sure it is there some where, but it is within reason in practice.

Ear-gain is good, and there is no sharpness to voices. So whatever ratios it has going it is more on the lower eargain areas and not in the weeb-areas..... Weeb-frequencies might have a dip? There might be some very small peak some where in the "Sh-Zz" vocals-pronounciation area. But it isn't very big peak. Doesn't appear in cymbals, but vocals of certain song styles.

Treble-cymbals are well in the background. Everything got an overall roll-off (in a positive sense). But don't expect sparkle and bite in classical string instruments.

**Overall Evaluation:**
Above expectations, even good.