If there is one thing CHiFi is known for, it is value for money. The $300 IEM space is a highly competitive segment, with multiple brands offering compelling products, vying for the attention of the discerning audiophile. While users are spoiled for choice in this price segment, the THIEAUDIO Hype 2 might just be the new sub-$300 king.
Table of Contents
THIEAUDIO Hype 2 – Specifications
| Driver Setup | 2DD + 2BA Sonion E25 (x1) + Sonion 2300 (x1) + 10mm dynamic drivers (x2) |
| Connector | 0.78 pin |
| Sensitivity | 108dB/Vrms@1KHz |
| Impedance | 25Ω@1KHz |
| Frequency Response Range | 20Hz-20kHz |
Box Contents
- THIEAUDIO Hype 2
- Spare Eartips
- Cable
- Carrying Case
- User Manual
Design
If there is only one word that can describe the Hype 2, that would be gorgeous. You can get the IEMs in either Zicao and Indigo colourways. Our sample came in the latter, and I like how the outer shell sparkles under direct light. Speaking of the shell design, it utilizes a mix of resin for the outer shell and faceplate, and metal for its obscenely large nozzles. While the nozzle size might mean that you have little options for third party ear tips, the included ones are plenty enough for most users (as long as you don’t lose them).
The included hard case is also quite sturdy, if not a bit too large. On the flipside, that also means you can possible store a DAP or a DAC in it along with the IEM. THIEAUDIO also included a decently-built SPC cable.
Audio Quality
Tonality
Despite the inclusion of woofers in its construction, the bass on the THIEAUDIO Hype 2 is surprisingly well-controlled. Don’t get me wrong here, it is definitely elevated, but not to the point of overpowering the other frequencies. Thanks to having two dedicated woofers, the bass extension is quite deep and has a note of airyness.
The midrange is fairly balanced as well, allowing vocals and instruments to have presence and clarity. The treble leans toward the sparkly side without being sibilant at all.
All in all, the tuning is definitely a crowd pleaser and would be welcoming to almost all music genres.
Technical Performance
While IEMs in general do not have great sound-staging, the THIEAUDIO Hype 2 punches above its weight when it comes to technical performance. Despite being a tad bass heavy, the Hype 2 managed to avoid the common pitfalls, resulting in an airy and detailed sound with excellent instrument separation.
Comfort & Fit
The Hype 2 felt easy to wear. The shell is not oversized despite the driver count, and the metal nozzles did not increase the weight that much. The snug fit also results in a pretty good passive noise isolation, easily blocking out most background noise. I could wear it for long hours of listening without any discomfort.
Final Thoughts
The sub-$300 IEM space has become much more interesting with the release of the THIEAUDIO Hype 2. It offers an exciting and welcoming sound signature for most listeners, and boasts a technical performance comparable to much more expensive IEMs.
Where to buy: Linsoul Audio
