Kefine Klean Review
Introduction
Kefine made a strong entry with the Delci, an IEM that showcased the brand's ambition through solid build quality and a design that opted for a more refined, non-resin look. Today, we have their latest release, the Kefine Klean—an IEM that maintains the brand's commitment to a robust, full-metal build with a modern aesthetic. Let's dive into what makes the Klean stand out.Unboxing
The Klean comes in a clean, minimalist white box with a central render of the IEM. Much like the Delci, it’s a straightforward, no-fuss package that serves its purpose well. On the back, you’ll find the usual specifications.
Inside, you’re greeted with the IEMs, a small accessory box, and a carrying case—sturdy enough to be a makeshift mini soccer ball in a pinch. Inside the case are a selection of eartips and two interchangeable filters to tweak the sound signature.
Build Quality
The Klean’s design combines sharp angles with softer lines, giving it a sleek, six-sided faceplate that feels sturdy in hand. This design choice is both practical and stylish, offering a no-nonsense aesthetic with a comfortable fit.
The nozzle incorporates interchangeable filters, which add versatility to the sound profile. Rather than swapping the entire nozzle, you simply change the tip where the filter sits. The stock silver filter offers a classic V-shaped signature, while the black filter introduces more upper mids for an airy feel. In this review, we’ll be using the stock silver filter.
The Klean features a 2-pin connection, with a twisted silver-plated copper cable ending in a 3.5mm jack. The cable is impressively solid for its price, easily a step above many budget options.
Comfort
The simple, ergonomic design of the Klean makes it comfortable for extended use, with no awkward protrusions or bulky angles. The nozzle is reasonably sized, and the cable is manageable, adding to overall comfort. Long listening sessions are easy to enjoy with the Klean.Sound
Kefine’s previous model, the Delci, established the brand’s tendency toward a V-shaped signature, offering good price-to-performance value. The Klean refines this approach, dialing up the sub-bass and upper mids to create a more engaging sound without sacrificing balance. With a single 10mm dynamic driver featuring a diamond-like coated diaphragm, the Klean achieves a natural, cohesive tonal character.
The interchangeable filters allow for flexibility: the stock silver filter delivers a classic V-shape, while the black filter enhances upper mids for an airy, slightly lifted profile.
Bass
The Klean has a sub-bass-focused presentation that’s deep and punchy. It excels at delivering rhythm and pulse, making it an engaging listen. While sub-bass takes the spotlight, mid-bass is present enough to add warmth without muddling the sound. Kick drums have a balanced weight and quickness, allowing for a good balance between energy and smoothness.
Resolution in the bass range is impressive for the price, with a nice blend of impact and subtlety. Dynamics are average, and a touch more liveliness could enhance the experience.
The Klean has a sub-bass-focused presentation that’s deep and punchy. It excels at delivering rhythm and pulse, making it an engaging listen. While sub-bass takes the spotlight, mid-bass is present enough to add warmth without muddling the sound. Kick drums have a balanced weight and quickness, allowing for a good balance between energy and smoothness.
Resolution in the bass range is impressive for the price, with a nice blend of impact and subtlety. Dynamics are average, and a touch more liveliness could enhance the experience.
Midrange
The midrange performance varies with filter choice, mainly in the upper mids, but the overall tonal quality remains consistent. With the silver filter, the Klean steers away from an overly elevated upper midrange, opting instead for a smooth, balanced response.
Testing with Yorushika's "Sunny," the Klean handles the guitar riff's creamy tone beautifully, preserving the signature chime of single-coil pickups. Vocals have a natural warmth, avoiding a thin or tinny feel. Midrange resolution is solid, keeping up well with its competitors.
Treble
Treble on the Klean has a pleasant balance, with enough air to create a good sense of space without any harshness or sibilance. While V-shaped tuning often runs the risk of sounding overly dark, the Klean manages a balanced treble presentation that remains clear and crisp.
The midrange performance varies with filter choice, mainly in the upper mids, but the overall tonal quality remains consistent. With the silver filter, the Klean steers away from an overly elevated upper midrange, opting instead for a smooth, balanced response.
Testing with Yorushika's "Sunny," the Klean handles the guitar riff's creamy tone beautifully, preserving the signature chime of single-coil pickups. Vocals have a natural warmth, avoiding a thin or tinny feel. Midrange resolution is solid, keeping up well with its competitors.
Treble
Treble on the Klean has a pleasant balance, with enough air to create a good sense of space without any harshness or sibilance. While V-shaped tuning often runs the risk of sounding overly dark, the Klean manages a balanced treble presentation that remains clear and crisp.
Soundstage
The Simgot EW300 combines a dynamic driver, planar driver, and piezoelectric tweeter, making it more complex than the Klean’s single dynamic setup. While the EW300 excels with elevated upper mids—ideal for female vocals—the Klean’s cohesive tonality and versatility make it easier to enjoy across genres.
VS NF Acous RA15
With a similar metal chassis and single dynamic driver, the RA15 offers high resolution and elevated upper mids, making it ideal for those prioritizing detail. The Klean, on the other hand, has a smoother, more approachable tone that may appeal to a broader audience.
- Width and Height: The Klean’s soundstage is average in terms of width and height, creating an even, comfortable listening space.
- Depth and Positioning: While not exceptionally deep, the Klean’s tuning offers good positioning, aided by a well-handled treble. Dynamics are average, so it lacks some depth, but overall positioning is solid.
Comparisons
VS Simgot EW300The Simgot EW300 combines a dynamic driver, planar driver, and piezoelectric tweeter, making it more complex than the Klean’s single dynamic setup. While the EW300 excels with elevated upper mids—ideal for female vocals—the Klean’s cohesive tonality and versatility make it easier to enjoy across genres.
VS NF Acous RA15
With a similar metal chassis and single dynamic driver, the RA15 offers high resolution and elevated upper mids, making it ideal for those prioritizing detail. The Klean, on the other hand, has a smoother, more approachable tone that may appeal to a broader audience.
Likes and Dislikes
Likes:- Solid build quality and sleek design
- Easy-to-enjoy V-shaped tuning
- Versatile filter options
- Comfortable for extended use
- Average dynamics; could benefit from a bit more excitement
- Basic packaging, though serviceable
Final Ratings
- Packaging: Basic, functional – 6
- Bass: Punchy sub-bass with smooth mid-bass – 7.5
- Midrange: Natural, smooth articulation – 7.5
- Treble: Airy and well-balanced – 7
- Soundstage: Decent but not outstanding – 6.5
Enjoyment Factor: A-
For under USD $50, the Kefine Klean offers an accessible, cohesive listening experience with an enjoyable V-shaped signature. It’s an easy recommendation for those seeking a well-built, balanced IEM with good comfort and versatility.