This review dives deep into the Kiwi Ears ELLIPSE open-back headphones, a surprisingly premium-feeling pair at a budget-friendly price point. We'll explore their build quality, comfort, and most importantly, their sound signature, comparing them directly to their sibling, the Kiwi Ears Division. The ELLIPSE boasts 50mm drivers promising a rich audio experience, but does it deliver on its studio-grade aspirations? We'll examine the frequency response graphs, highlighting key differences between the two models and assessing their suitability for various music genres.Our detailed analysis covers the strengths and weaknesses of the ELLIPSE, focusing on its balanced sound profile versus the Division's more bass-heavy output. We’ll discuss how these differences impact the listening experience for different genres, from podcasts and vocals to bass-heavy electronic music. The review also touches upon EQ adjustments and the trade-offs involved, ultimately helping you decide which headphone best suits your personal preferences and musical tastes. Ultimately, we’ll determine whether the ELLIPSE’s detailed sound justifies a recommendation, even against its more bass-booming counterpart.
Pros And Cons
- Nice build quality
- 50mm driver
- Open back design
- More balanced sound than the Division
- Suitable for podcasts and videos where clear vocals are needed
- Good for listening to music that doesn't rely heavily on low frequencies
- Vocals may sound a bit recessed in the mix
- Not ideal for music with heavy 808 drops or bass-heavy genres
- Kick drum may sound less powerful compared to other headphones
- Sub-bass is not significantly different from mid-bass
- Impressive bass response for a 40mm driver
- Good value for money ($50)
- Hard-hitting low frequency
- Daily usage headphone for the reviewer
- Bass may overpower vocals
- Mids may be less prominent due to strong bass
Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Kiwi Ears ELLIPSE arrived, and the initial unboxing experience was pleasant. The packaging was well-designed and protective. The headphones themselves felt premium, boasting a solid build quality that exceeded expectations for a $70 pair. The 50mm drivers promised a rich audio experience. First impressions were highly favorable, noting a comfortable fit and impressive initial sound quality.
The ELLIPSE are presented as studio-grade headphones. This promise of high-fidelity audio prompted a deeper investigation into the technical specifications and performance characteristics.
Sound Quality Analysis and Comparison with Kiwi Ears Division
A direct comparison with the Kiwi Ears Division was conducted. The Division, a 40mm driver headphone, was noted for its impressive bass response and comfortable fit, even with aftermarket earpads. However, the ELLIPSE delivered a different listening experience.
The frequency response graphs reveal distinct differences between the ELLIPSE and the Division. The Division exhibited a more prominent bass response, while the ELLIPSE offered a more balanced sound profile. The ELLIPSE displayed a smoother sub-bass and mid-bass response, creating a warmer, less aggressive sound signature than the Division's hard-hitting low-end. The mids and highs were more defined on the ELLIPSE than on the Division.
Music Genre Suitability
The ELLIPSE's sound profile makes it well-suited for certain genres. It excels with genres where clarity and detail are paramount, like podcasts and vocals. For genres heavily reliant on deep bass, like hip-hop and electronic music, the Division's punchier bass is likely preferred.
However, the ELLIPSE's balanced sound signature provides better clarity and detail for genres where vocal reproduction is key. The open-back design further enhances the spaciousness and clarity of the soundstage. While the ELLIPSE may lack the impactful bass of the Division, it shines in showcasing nuance and detail in the mids and highs.
EQ Considerations and Overall Impression
The reviewer touches on EQ adjustments, highlighting the complex interplay between different frequency ranges. Adjusting one range often necessitates adjustments elsewhere. The reviewer suggests starting adjustments in the target range, instead of trying to address bass issues by boosting the treble.
While the ELLIPSE is not as bass-heavy as the Division, it offers a more balanced listening experience. The reviewer expresses a preference for the Division due to its powerful bass but acknowledges that the ELLIPSE provides a more neutral and detailed sound that suits different preferences and use cases.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Kiwi Ears ELLIPSE?
The Kiwi Ears ELLIPSE is a solid pair of open-back headphones with excellent build quality and a balanced sound profile. It's a strong competitor in its price range, offering a detailed and neutral sound ideal for podcasts, vocals, and genres that benefit from clarity and detail.
While the ELLIPSE might not satisfy users seeking powerful bass, the Division provides a more bass-focused alternative from the same manufacturer. The choice depends on personal listening preferences and priorities. For $60-$70, the ELLIPSE delivers good value, but the Division remains the reviewer's top choice for its superior bass response and overall listening experience.
