ThieAudio is known for their high-end IEMs like the Monarch, so it’s nice to see them making an IEM in the mid-tier range, which is the ThieAudio Hype 2, that retails for US$299. The ThieAudio Hype 2 features two dynamic drivers along with 2 balanced armatures, which incorporates ThieAudio’s IMPACT² technology seen on the Monarch.
Tech specs
| Drivers | Sonion E25 (x1) + Sonion 2300 (x1) + 10mm dynamic drivers (x2) |
| Sensitivity | 108dB/Vrms@1KHz |
| Impedance | 25Ω@1KHz |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Nozzle Diameter (Lip) | 6mm |
| Nozzle Diameter (Stem) | 5.4mm |
| Cable interface | 0.78mm 2-pin |
| Removable cable | Yes |
Unboxing
In the box you will find the follwing:
- ThieAudio Hype 2 IEM
- ThieAudio EST cable (Mark I)
- Silicone ear tips x3 – S/M/L (3 types)
- Foam ear tips x3 – S/M/L (3 types)
- Hard shell carrying case
- Cleaning cloth
Design and build quality
ThieAudio Hype 2 is available in two colour options – (1) Zicao (purple/orange), and (2) Indigo (blue/green). The unit I have the Indigo colour, which has a beautiful design that reminds of peacock features. The look of the faceplate is premium, and feels like something that you can find on higher end models.
The shells of the ThieAudio Hype 2 are made from medical-grade resin, and but solid in the overall construction. The stock cable is the ThieAudio EST cable, which is has a nice braiding to it with a metal chin slider. The cable is 1.2m long, has a straight 3.5 mm connector on one end, and two 0.78mm 2-pin connectors on the other end. I like the cable – it is thick and untangles easily.
Comfort and fit
This is ultimately down to ear size, but I found the ThieAudio Hype 2 to be very comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, be it if I’m using the silicon or foam ear tips. Even though it is on the larger side, the fit in my ears was snug. The soft ergonomic contours on the ThieAudio Hype 2 fit nicely along the curves in my ears, providing me comfort and a good seal.
It’s nice to see ThieAudio add provide foam ear tips in the packaging. Using the foam ear tips allowed a softer and slightly deeper fit in my ears. I found the default silicon ear tips to be good enough too.
Sound quality
The ThieAudio Hype 2 delivers impact bass response with satisfying rumble and punch, that is an enjoyable listen on pop and EDM. As I am by Justin Bieber offers dynamic and textured bass. The bass is also is fast, controlled, and doesn’t get bloaty. There is distinct separation of the bass line without any muddiness. I liked how clean the mid-bass blends into the midrange.
The emphasis of the midrange is in the low-mid, giving you a warm, full-bodied sound with good tonal balance. There is an element of smoothness along with details in instruments and vocals at a healthy level, though vocals could use a little more intimacy. Treble is crisp and clean sounding with enough extension too add an occasional sparkle to the mix. It could use a little more airiness. There is a smooth delivery to the highs that is pleasing to listen to. I’d say it is well balanced in the overall tuning, never sound harsh or sibilant.
Soundstage is also wide enough for an immersive listen, though it doesn’t expand too much vertically. Imaging is excellent, providing a good sense of perception to instruments in the mix and distance to it.
Conclusion
Overall, I really enjoyed the tuning of the ThieAudio Hype 2. Bass is enjoyable with head bopping thumps that does not sacrifice midrange clarity, coupled with clean and smooth mids and treble for a pleasant presentation.