Source: https://bisonicr.ldblog.jp/archives/56031490.html

The KBEAR KB02 is a model equipped with a single 10mm beryllium-coated diaphragm dynamic driver, and is the first KBEAR earphone to feature a bone conduction unit to preserve low frequencies.

The 10mm beryllium-coated dynamic driver in the KBEAR KB02 achieving powerful and stable sound.

This unit is positioned closer to the stem nozzle, further improving mid-high range performance. At the same time, a bone conduction unit is added to supplement the low range, providing excellent listening characteristics and a beautiful, balanced sound.

The shell of the KBEAR KB02 is made of 3D printed resin, and the precise processing and finish of the faceplate achieve a high texture. In addition, the bone conduction unit housed in the shell cavity efficiently conducts vibration energy to complement the low and super low ranges. It achieves a wider sound field and enriches layers and details.

The cable is 0.78mm 2pin specification and can be re-cabled. Three color variations are available: purple, blue, and brown.

Package configuration, product appearance and contents

The package design for the KBEAR KB02 includes an image of the device. The box size and other features are similar to the previously reviewed KB01. The package includes the earphones, a cable, three types of ear tips in S/M/L sizes, and an instruction manual.

The ear tips come in three types: the standard red-gray type, a slightly soft black type, and a white type with a wide opening.

The KBEAR KB02 body is made of 3D printed resin, and the stem nozzle is made of metal. Although the bone conduction unit makes it slightly larger than the KB01, which has a single-ended configuration, it is relatively compact and fits easily in the ear. Therefore, it is comfortable to wear. The 10mm beryllium-coated diaphragm dynamic driver appears to use the same unit as the Kiwi Ears Cadenza.

The included cable is a 4-core high-purity oxygen-free copper wire that is relatively thin and soft, making it easy to handle. It's a perfect combination with the compact body and appearance.

Unusually for earphones in this price range, three different types of ear tips are included in each size. You can also replace the included ones with ones that fit better.

Sound Impressions

The sound quality of the KBEAR KB02 is based on a neutral impression of a weak bass-heavy sound, with the bone conduction unit boosting the depth and thickness of the low and deep bass. The sound quality tendency itself is very similar to the single-driver KB01, and both of the installed dynamic drivers seem to use the same beryllium-coated diaphragm driver as the Kiwi Ears Cadenza.

However, while the KB01 has an impedance of 32Ω, the KBEAR KB02 has an impedance of 40Ω and requires a slightly higher driving force due to the addition of a bone conduction unit (sensitivity is 109dB/mW). Therefore, you will be able to clearly feel the depth of the low frequencies due to bone conduction and the sharpness that is characteristic of beryllium if you play it firmly with a DAP or amplifier with more driving force.

Although the low frequencies are strengthened by the BC unit, there is no significant change in the volume itself, and the overall sound is finished with a neutral balance that is close to flat, and at the same time, it gives the impression of a solid depth and strength without being light.

The re-cabling effect is also great, so by replacing the cable with one that has a clearer, more detailed sound, you can enjoy a more three-dimensional, more vivid sound.

In addition, between the Kiwi Ears Cadenza and KB01, which are almost sister earphones, the Cadenza has a slightly weaker bass-heavy sound, while the KB01 has a slightly more flat sound with a slightly suppressed bass.

In contrast, the KBEAR KB02 has a bone conduction unit that preserves the slightly more subdued bass of the KB01, improving the overall balance in the listening direction and creating a layered sound field.

The Treble of the KBEAR KB02 are well-balanced and easy to listen to, but when played in a powerful playback environment, they extend well and have the clear, linear impression that is characteristic of beryllium coating. Re-cabling also seems to improve transparency and visibility to a certain extent.

Overall, like many recent products, they are designed to control stimuli and are easy to use, with no harshness and are easy to listen to. Furthermore, the impression that cymbal sounds and the like are clear and not muffled is due to the resolution unique to beryllium coating.

The mid range sounds natural and unobtrusive. Depending on the song, it may be slightly recessed, but it feels smooth and clear. The vocal range is localized at a natural distance, but there is no lack of expression. The sound field is wider than the "KB01" thanks to the bone conduction unit, and the spatial expression is created with a more layered depth. The separation of vocals and performance is also good.

In terms of resolution and sharpness, the " KBEAR KB02 " may not be as impressive as the "KB01" and "Cadenza" that you would expect from higher-priced beryllium drivers, but the response is good. I think it achieves a natural and clear texture for a listening earphone in this price range. Also, although the benefit of the bone conduction unit is not that great, it seems to provide moderate support in terms of spatial expression, etc.

The overall balance of the bass is neutral and not boosted, just like the KB01, but thanks to the bone conduction unit, the bass depth in particular has a stronger presence, and the KBEAR KB02 does not give the impression of being light and lacking realism that is common in neutral earphones. As a result, the KBEAR KB02 has more impact and weight than the KB01, and is cleaner and more clear than the Cadenza, giving it a more clear and clear impression.

The bass is deeper and has a natural weight, and the mid-bass has a linear impression without excessive swelling. It produces a crisp bass with a sense of speed while creating a realistic sound field. It also has a moderate warmth without being too cold, and when combined with the speed that is characteristic of the beryllium coating, it gives a sense of fun.

Summary

So, while the KBEAR KB02 is priced at a low price of around 30 dollars, or 5,000 yen, it is equipped with a beryllium-coated driver as well as a bone conduction unit, achieving a neutral balance and deep, immersive bass. To get serious about these headphones, you will probably need to give some consideration to the playback environment and cables, but it's great to be able to experience well-balanced listening sound at an affordable price.

In fact, the first shipment sold out soon after release, and the restocked stock a few days before this review was published seems to be selling quite well. It looks like they'll continue to be popular in the future.