In in the present day’s function, Kurt opinions the DUNU KIMA 2, a second-generation dynamic driver IEM with a Q-Lock interchangeable plug system cable. It’s at present priced at $107.99 with an SRP of $119.99.
Disclaimer: This pattern was despatched to me in return for my sincere opinion. Headfonics is an impartial web site with no affiliate hyperlinks or companies. I thank HiFiGO and DUNU for his or her assist.
You possibly can click on right here to study extra in regards to the DUNU gear we have now beforehand reviewed on Headfonics.
This put up follows our scoring guidelines which you’ll be able to learn in additional element right here.
DUNU has earned a status for delivering modern, high-quality audio gear, so the KIMA 2 has rather a lot to reside as much as as a way to be thought of a worthy successor to the unique KIMA.
Combining a hanging design with enhanced driver expertise much like the FALCON Ultra, the $119.99 SRP KIMA 2 seeks to construct upon the favored restricted version VERNUS IEM tuning.
The KIMA 2 guarantees to ship a clear, balanced, and fascinating sound expertise with its next-generation DLC composite diaphragm dynamic driver. Does the KIMA 2 set a brand new benchmark for single dynamic driver IEMs?
In my full evaluate beneath, I learn the way it performs and competes towards the award-winning AFUL Explorer and the TinHiFi P1 Max II.
Options
The DUNU KIMA 2 is a single dynamic driver common IEM. It incorporates a next-generation DLC composite dome diaphragm dynamic driver with a dual-cavity acoustic construction to enrich the driving force.
DUNU claims this configuration enhances the bass management and the mids’ accuracy to create a well-rounded sound signature.
Moreover, the KIMA 2 builds upon DUNU’s VERNUS Sound Mastery goal curve, refining the tuning strategy to try to create a richer and extra dynamic sound signature.
The DUNU KIMA 2 has an impedance of 32Ω @ 1kHz with an SPL of 108 dB/Vrms making it a fairly environment friendly IEM however not an excellent delicate monitor by in the present day’s requirements.
Design
The DUNU KIMA 2 impresses with its smooth design, showcasing a minimalist geometric aesthetic that balances sharpness with magnificence. Its brushed metallic end enhances its premium look, whereas the compact dimension ensures it stays visually interesting with out being overly cumbersome.
The nozzle is barely elevated with a gold end and a delicate hump beneath aids in securing a correct match. Its white matte end provides a contact of magnificence, however the restricted version emerald, inexperienced variant takes the visible attraction to a different stage with its reflective, lustrous floor.
Branding particulars comparable to “KIMA 2” on the fitting earpiece and “Criz Faction” on the left are subtly etched, sustaining a clear {and professional} look. The “L” and “R” markers positioned subsequent to the vent beneath the 0.78mm connectors make figuring out sides easy.
The sharp and angular edges of the faceplate present a hanging visible id. Nonetheless, the sides are angled in a approach that avoids discomfort throughout regular use, aligning with its refined design philosophy.
Consolation & Isolation
The DUNU KIMA 2 presents an total rounded and ergonomic design, making it snug for many customers throughout prolonged listening periods. Its comparatively small dimension ensures a safe match, particularly for people with smaller ears.
Choosing the fitting ear suggestions is essential to reaching optimum consolation, as improper suggestions might trigger the IEM to poke the ear. When paired with well-fitting suggestions, the KIMA 2 offers a comfortable match with out extreme stress.
The shell’s materials absorbs temperature simply, which might make it really feel chilly in chilly environments or heat after extended use. This attribute might require some adjustment relying on the encompassing situations.
By way of isolation, the KIMA 2 performs effectively, successfully blocking out exterior noise for uninterrupted listening. Nonetheless, its design makes it much less excellent for sleeping, as fixed motion in mattress may cause its sharp corners to press towards the ear.
Suggestions
The DUNU KIMA 2 impresses with its assortment of ear suggestions, showcasing DUNU’s consideration to consumer preferences. I’m blissful to see quite a lot of choices included, permitting customers to tailor consolation and sound efficiency to their liking.
The Purple Suggestions function a protracted stem and medium bore, offering a safe grip however can turn into uncomfortable over time as a result of their exhausting and pointed design. The following pointers excel at containing the bass, delivering a tighter and extra managed low-end response.
The Darkish Blue Suggestions, with their brief stem and medium bore, prioritize consolation and sit deep contained in the ears. Nonetheless, their weaker grip can scale back bass impression and introduce muddiness to the midrange, affecting total readability.
DUNU’s Sweet Suggestions mix a protracted stem and medium bore with a non-sticky texture, providing a safe match and nice consolation. They improve perceptible readability, making them a wonderful selection for these looking for a clear sound signature.
Lastly, the DUNU S&S Suggestions stand out with their broad bore and distinctive filling design, gripping the ears securely whereas boosting readability. Their design, nonetheless, causes the IEM to elevate upward, making the sharp edges of the KIMA 2 hit and poke my ears.
Inventory Cable
The DUNU KIMA 2 comes with a four-core hybrid cable comprising a mix of monocrystalline copper and silver-plated monocrystalline copper.
Wrapped in shock-absorbing nylon, the cable is sturdy, tangle-resistant, and free from reminiscence retention. This design prevents the cable from feeling low cost or cumbersome throughout use, contributing to a very good dealing with expertise.
The cable options DUNU’s versatile Q-Lock Mini interchangeable plug system, permitting you to modify between 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced plugs. This method enhances compatibility, making the KIMA 2 adaptable to numerous audio sources and setups.
Consideration to element extends to the 0.78mm terminations, which embrace clear “L” and “R” markings for simple and error-free reference to the IEMs.
Whereas the construct high quality of the cable is undeniably top-notch, the chin slider may very well be simpler to regulate. This minor nitpick, nonetheless, does little to detract from the general high-end high quality of the cable.
Packaging & Equipment
The unboxing expertise of the DUNU KIMA 2 can be spectacular. The outer field options lovely, colourful art work with shades of purple, white, and pink on the entrance, whereas the again highlights the technical specs.
Sliding off the outer sleeve reveals a smooth black field with the DUNU emblem prominently displayed. Upon lifting the field upward, you’re greeted with a pleasant standee of the art work woman, including a collectible contact to the packaging.
The standee is detachable and will be constructed utilizing its plastic base, making it an ornamental merchandise. Beneath this show lies the IEM itself, completely nestled in a foam container.
Underneath the IEM compartment is the carrying case, a white textured pouch etched with the DUNU emblem. Contained in the case, you’ll discover the cable, an assortment of ear suggestions, 4.4mm and three.5mm terminations, an IEM cleansing brush, a clip, and a small carrying pouch.
The carry pouch incorporates a fishnet design with a divider inside, which provides versatility however leaves its utilization barely ambiguous as an IEM pouch.
Sound Impressions
Bass
The DUNU KIMA 2 delivers a bass expertise that emphasizes refinement and texture moderately than sheer amount. Sub-bass lacks the depth and extension wanted for a totally immersive low-end however maintains a stage of presence that retains the sound grounded.
Mid-bass efficiency presents a satisfying punch, offering rhythm and impression with out overwhelming the remainder of the frequency vary. Bass element retrieval is spectacular, capturing delicate nuances and textures that add depth to tracks.
Nonetheless, noticeable bass bleed into the midrange barely impacts total readability, lowering the separation between frequencies. This minor downside could make the presentation really feel much less clear, particularly in bass-heavy tracks.
Regardless of these limitations, the bass stays balanced and fulfilling, hanging a concord between punchiness and precision. Its textured strategy provides delicate vitality with out overpowering the remainder of the signature.
Mids
The midrange of the DUNU KIMA 2 is wealthy and heat, delivering pure timbre and lifelike vocal presentation. Each female and male vocals sound full-bodied and expressive, showcasing the IEM’s skill to spotlight tonal accuracy.
Particulars within the mids are well-articulated, capturing vocal nuances and delicate instrumental layers with readability. Devices on this vary preserve a definite presence, mixing easily with out overpowering one another.
Bass bleed into the mids barely softening their sharpness, however the presentation avoids feeling overly congested or muddy.
The KIMA 2’s midrange strikes a steadiness between smoothness and readability, making certain that vocals and devices stay a focus in its sound signature.
Treble
The treble efficiency of the DUNU KIMA 2 is easy and inoffensive, avoiding harshness or fatigue. Element retrieval is above common, permitting finer parts comparable to cymbals, chimes, and backing vocals to be heard clearly.
Whereas treble extension is nice for a single dynamic driver, it lacks the flicker and air that may elevate the soundstage’s sense of house. This barely reserved strategy ensures a extra laid-back presentation however limits pleasure within the higher frequencies.
Sibilance is well-controlled, even in difficult tracks, which makes the treble sound clear and refined.
Staging & Dynamics
The DUNU KIMA 2 presents a compact soundstage with restricted width and depth, specializing in an intimate and ahead presentation. This staging offers readability for vocals and devices however sacrifices a way of expansiveness and layering.
Imaging is evident, though it struggles with exact placement, as sounds usually cluster throughout the middle of the stage. The spatial illustration feels centered, leaving little room for dimensionality or holographic results.
The separation between devices and tones is well-executed, making certain readability even in busy and sophisticated tracks. The managed separation avoids congestion and permits particular person parts to face out successfully.
Dynamics are robust, sustaining constant efficiency throughout various volumes with out distortion or imbalance. Refined shifts in quantity and tonal emphasis stay cohesive, making certain a steady and dependable sound profile.
Click on page 2 below for my recommended pairings and selected comparisons.
Trending Merchandise
