Many audiophiles often shy away from the world of IEMs, instead opting to focus on the world of open and closed-back over-ear headphones. The most common reason being that it’s too much of a money sink. In order for an IEM to compete with over-ear headphones, they much be very expensive. A good quality IEM’s four digit price tag is not worth it. What most don’t know is that it doesn’t take a hefty price tag to make a great pair of IEMs, and the new KEFINE Arnar is a great example of that fact.
What Comes in the Box?
- Arnar Earphones
- Hard Carrying Case
- Pairs of Extra Tuning Nozzles
- Pairs of Extra Ear Tips
- Ear Tip Storage Cases
- User Manual
- Quality Certificate
- Nozzle Guide Card
- High-Purity SIlver Plated OFC Cable
The exceptional value of the Arnar is on full display right out of the box. Instead of getting nothing but the IEMs themselves and a sub-par cable, as you do with many lower-end IEMs, you get a high-quality cable and a plethora of accessories. Serviceable eartips in all sizes, extra tuning nozzles which add another layer of customization to the sound, and a nice, stylish carrying case are all present. This extra touch immediately sets the Arnar apart from other IEMs at this price point.
Build, Design, & Comfort
The Arnar looks and feels great. The design has a beautiful pattern that blends seamlessly with the grey and silver cable to create an all-round great looking IEM set. With the correctly fitting eartip, the IEMs fit snuggly and comfortably in the ears. I never experienced discomfort or heaviness even after hours of wear.
The cable offers 3.5 and 4.4mm connectivity through interchangeable termination, and the tuning nozzles can be changed to enhance the listener’s experience depending on their frequency preference from a set of three. This level of customization is rare to see, not just at an IEM of this price point, but for any IEM in general and KEFINE’s attention to detail here is quite commendable.
Technical Specifications
- Product Name: Kefine Arnar
- Type: Hybrid Planar + Balanced Armature IEM
- Driver Configuration: 1 Planar Magnetic Driver + 1 Knowles BA
- Planar Driver Size: 14.5mm
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 40 kHz
- Sensitivity: 107 dB ± 3 dB
- Impedance: 13 Ω
- Cable Length: 1.2 m ± 0.2 m
- Connector: 0.78mm 2-Pin
- Plug Type: 3.5mm Single-Ended / 4.4mm Balanced
- Housing Material: Aviation-Grade CNC Aluminum Alloy
Sound Review
Sound Stage
The Arnar supports a surprisingly wide sound stage for an IEM, without losing the intimacy that IEM users know and love. This width ensures that the level of detail that the Arnar offers, which is impressive in itself, is not lost. I was easily able to distinguish between instruments in a mix, and hear each aspect with significant clarity and detail.
This soundstage is also made unique by the two-driver system present in both IEMs. This is uncommon for IEMs at this price point such as the Meze Alba and the Sennheiser IE 200, both of which only have one dynamic driver.
Bass Frequencies
The bass on the Arnar packs a reasonable punch with a great deal of clarity without being so powerful that it overpowers the mids and treble. It does a great job of walking the tightrope between having a bass that’s too powerful for its own good and having one that is strong enough to give that oomph that keeps the bass exciting and punchy. This direction keeps the sound balanced and clear across the spectrum.
Mid Frequencies
The Arnar’s mids provide a pleasant and detailed listening experience. Vocals and guitars are nice and crisp, which is helped greatly by the width of the soundstage. This range is where the Armar’s value greatly shines, its layered and dynamic sound punches well above its sub-$200 weight class.
High/Treble Frequencies
The highs are nice and airy when listening to this IEM; the restraint on the bass adds to the qualities of the highs, which are also not over-stated. This shape gives a nice balanced and honest sound that is closer to reference without losing all of its color. The treble shines, and it’s definitely a brighter IEM, but not to a distracting amount.
Comparison to Similarly Priced IEMs
The two IEMs that I enjoy most at this price point are the Meze Alba and the Sennheiser IE 200, both of which sit at around $160. The Arnar differentiates itself by having two drivers as opposed to one for these competitors, which provides a much different sound stage and frequency response. Additionally, the accessories and customization included with the Arnar more than makes up for the extra $30 attached to its price tag. Overall, I would say the sound of the Armar is more interesting than the Alba or the IE 200. I also think the design and cable are far more premium and sleek. If you’re willing to throw just a little bit more money in, the Arnar is definitely worth it.
Final Thoughts
The KEFINE Arnar redefines value in the IEM space, offering a great sound for a great price. Its customization, soundstage, and accessories are all exceptional and well worth its $189 price tag. If you’ve always wanted to try IEMs out and were reluctant due to the price, this is a great place to start.
You can buy the KEFINE Arnar at Audio 46, as well as many other IEMs.
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