KBEAR KB02 Review: The Most Bizarre $40 IEM I've Tried

A $40 hybrid IEM combining a 10mm beryllium-plated dynamic driver with a bone conduction driver tuned for sub-bass - V-shaped, punchy, and surprisingly capable.

Verdict: Mixed - 6.9/10. Price: $39.

What's good

Lightweight resin shell with no rough edges

Hybrid: 10mm beryllium-plated DD + bone conduction driver

Bone conduction tuned specifically for sub-bass impact

Multiple silicone tip sizes and types included

Detachable 2-pin cable with braided sleeve

Three colorways - all done exceptionally well

Beryllium tweeter provides fast transients and treble detail

108dB sensitivity - easy to drive from any phone

Worth knowing

Faint resonating spring sound when tapping the shell

Stock cable is generic - upgrade-worthy

Bass blooms and bleeds slightly into lower mids

V-shaped tuning recesses vocals and midrange instruments

Soundstage depth is limited - more lateral than 3D

Microdynamics are less pronounced than macro

Read the full KBEAR KB02 review on The Audio Stuff