Kiwi Ears has been steadily gaining recognition in the IEM market, and with the Altruva, the brand takes a bold step into the realm of high-end open-back headphones. Engineered as their flagship model, the Altruva is designed with audiophiles in mind, offering a unique tuning profile, premium construction, and a thoughtful balance between technical precision and musicality.
Design & Build Quality
The Altruva features a clean, modern design with a semi-open back and a large over-ear structure. The use of magnesium alloy for the yokes and ear cups ensures a lightweight yet durable frame. Its open-back grille not only enhances acoustic performance but also lends a distinct aesthetic character. The headband is suspended with a flexible support band for added comfort, and the generously padded velour earpads provide a secure fit even during extended listening sessions.
Accessories & Cable
Kiwi Ears includes a high-quality 4-core OCC silver-plated cable, which is both durable and aesthetically in line with the headphone’s premium feel. The cable is detachable and uses standard dual 3.5mm connectors with a 3.5mm TRS termination, making it easy to upgrade or swap. A zippered carrying case is also included for safe storage.
Driver & Technical Features
At the heart of the Altruva is a 50mm planar magnetic driver, custom-developed by Kiwi Ears. This driver uses a dual-sided neodymium magnet array and an ultra-thin diaphragm, designed to deliver fast transients, low distortion, and a detailed presentation across the frequency range. With an impedance of 30Ω and a sensitivity of 102dB, the Altruva is relatively easy to drive, although a good desktop DAC/amp setup will help it reach its full potential.
Sound Quality
The Altruva offers a mildly U-shaped sound signature with neutral tonality and natural extension on both ends of the spectrum. Bass is tight and punchy, though not overly emphasized, making it ideal for genres like classical, jazz, and acoustic music. Mids are slightly recessed but remain articulate and smooth, with excellent detail retrieval in vocals and instruments. The treble is well-extended and airy, offering good sparkle without harshness.
What stands out most is the soundstage—wide and immersive, with excellent stereo imaging and precise instrument separation. It creates a spacious and realistic listening environment that rivals other headphones in this price range.
Verdict
The Kiwi Ears Altruva marks an impressive debut in the full-size headphone space for the brand. Its blend of technical performance, comfortable design, and refined tuning makes it a strong contender in the sub-$100 planar headphone market. Audiophiles looking for a high-quality open-back headphone with a neutral but engaging sound signature will find the Altruva a worthy investment.
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