Review: Kinera Tyr

Firstly I would like to thank HiFiGo for sending me this sample.

*disclaimer: This sample was provided for the purpose of writing a review, no incentive was given to write a favourable review. All opinions expressed are my own subjective findings

Gear Used:
JDS Labs Element II / Audio Opus #2 > Tyr

Tech Specs:
Impedance: 16Ω
Earphone sensitivity: 105 dB
Frequency range: 20-20000Hz
Earphone plug: 3.5mm
Cable Length: 1.2m±5cm
MSRP: $29

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Packaging, Build Quality and Accessories:

The Tyr come in the normal Kinera box which is small yet looks great, there is info on the back about the product and the IEM’s are well protected inside by a foam insert. For a budget IEM the packaging is actually great and I like how robust it is to protect them during shipping.

Build quality is great, they have a fixed cable with mic that is of pretty average construction but with good strain relief. The housings however feel very sturdy and well made, and I have no issues with the build quality for the price.

Accessory wise you get a small case along with 3 pairs of standard tips and also 3 pairs of Final E-type tips, the inclusion of E-type tips is really good for the price.

Comfort and Isolation:

The size and shape of the Tyr is excellent, they allow you to easily get a good fit and remain comfortable for hours of use. The cable is supple enough to allow you to wear them with the cable over the ear should you wish, but cable noise isn’t too bad so wearing them straight down is fine. I really do love the fit of these.

Isolation is fairly average, they are perfect for casual everyday use but you might want something a little better for very noisy commutes or environments.

Sound:

Lows: The lows on the Tyr are very well balanced with only the slightest attenuation in the sub-bass region, this little micro-driver can accurately present the lows with great detail and speed. They are quite snappy and can keep up with more complex mixes, yet they never sound thin. Don’t expect basshead levels from the Tyr but their well balanced low end will be appreciated by those who prefer a slightly tighter, more neutral sound. There is a good amount of punch to the low end, and they sound slightly more engaging at moderate volumes compared to low (as always, be careful with your hearing).

Midrange: The midrange is very clean and there is minimal impact from the low end, which allows vocals and guitars to shine and they cut through the mix with a good amount of bite and clarity. The upper midrange to lower treble region suffer a bit of a dip, which means they are fatigue free but also lacking some excitement and initial cymbal crashes are a little lackluster. The level of detail and control in the midrange is however very good, they do however not always sound the most realistic when it comes tonality. Layering is good, with great positioning of instruments within the stage.

Highs: The little dip in the lower treble does rob the sound of a little excitement and brilliance, however there is a peak a little higher up that adds some space and air to the sound. The treble still remains fairly well presented for the most part, with a hint of metallic tone to them, but nothing that is annoying or grating. The highs may be lacking a little in excitement but it does have it’s benefits when it comes to a faitgue free listen. They also do roll off a little early, meaning notes don’t quite linger in the most natural way.

Instrument separation is very good on these, the transient response great helps here as they sound very controlled, the soundstage is fairly average though.

Conclusion:

Well for $29 these are a really fun listen, they don’t have the most linear response curve, however listening to them they are just quite fun and an easy listen. They are great as a backup pair, or just a low budget throw about daily IEM, the level of sound quality you can get at low prices really is getting better. They don’t really do anything badly, yet don’t quite excel at anything either, and that is a good thing for a $29 IEM.

Sound Perfection Rating: 8/10 (easy to recommend and listen to at a very wallet friendly price)