THIEAUDIO Hype 2 Review

Today, I'll be reviewing ThieAudio's Hype 2 in-ear monitors (IEMs). ThieAudio, a company that has garnered significant attention in recent times, presents the Hype 2 with a mission to leave a lasting impression in the IEM market. Armed with a hybrid driver setup and innovative technology, these IEMs promise premium sound quality at an accessible price point of $299, aiming to satisfy audiophiles without breaking the bank.

What you get

• Hype 2 In-Ear Monitors

• 1.2m 2-pin cable with 3.5mm termination

• Variety of Silicone and Foam Ear Tips

• Cleaning cloth

• gray zip-up Case

Look and feel
I personally find the design of the Hype 2 quite appealing. The housing comes in a subdued purple color (also available in blue), giving it a sophisticated look that appears more expensive than its price suggests. Additionally, they are incredibly lightweight, making them comfortable to wear for long periods without causing any discomfort. The ergonomic contours of the housing ensure a snug fit, enhancing the overall user experience. Furthermore, the inclusion of various ear tips and a durable hard case in the accessory package adds practicality to the equation, making the Hype 2 not only stylish but also convenient to use and carry around.

Design & Functionality
The Hype 2 stands out with its unique hybrid driver setup, comprising two dynamic drivers and two balanced armature drivers. Thieaudio utilizes cutting-edge Sonion drivers, including the 2356 and E25ST models, known for their minimal harmonic distortion and enhanced resolution. Additionally, the Hype 2 incorporates Thieaudio's IMPACT² innovation, featuring a novel subwoofer arrangement with two 10mm composite diaphragm drivers in an isobaric configuration. This combination promises to deliver a rich, detailed sound experience with minimized distortion and improved clarity across the frequency spectrum.


Soundstage
For this review, I paired the Hype 2 with the iFi GO bl Portable Headphone AMP, which proved to be an excellent combination to unlock its full potential. The Hype 2 delivers a surprisingly expansive soundstage that impressed me from the get-go. While it doesn't push boundaries to excessive wideness, it maintains a realistic sense of space that enhances the listening experience. Thanks to the depth of the bass, the stage retains a grandeur that adds richness to the audio presentation. Moreover, there's an abundance of height in the soundstage, which I found quite captivating. As the track progresses, the Hype 2 showcases impressive separation between instruments, allowing each element to occupy its own space within the sonic landscape. This level of detail and precision contributes to an immersive and satisfying listening experience. I particularly enjoyed listening to Kygo's song "Beautiful" with the Hype 2, as I could clearly discern all the instruments in the mix, further highlighting its soundstage prowess.

Low End
I really liked the low end of the Hype 2 – it's quite remarkable. The bass hits hard and deep, adding a richness to every track that's hard to beat. Whether it's the thump of a kick drum or the rumble of electronic beats, the Hype 2 handles low frequencies with finesse, never overpowering the rest of the music. What really stood out to me was the clarity and texture in the bass – even in complex passages, every note was reproduced with precision. For bass lovers like me, the Hype 2 is an absolute treat to listen to, offering a perfect balance of punch, depth, and clarity that's hard to find elsewhere.



Mids
The midrange of the Hype 2 blew me away – it's where these IEMs truly shine. Vocals sound rich and full, with just the right amount of warmth to make them incredibly engaging. Instruments come alive with clarity and detail, whether it's the strum of a guitar or the delicate pluck of a violin string. I found myself getting lost in the music, as every note was reproduced with impressive authenticity. Overall, the midrange of the Hype 2 is nothing short of exceptional, offering a level of musicality that's hard to find at this price point.

Highs
The highs of the Hype 2 provide a delightful listening experience with their smooth and silky presentation. While they don't exhibit extreme extension or sparkle, they offer a subtle crispness that enhances the overall sound signature. Vocals and instruments in the higher frequencies are rendered with finesse, maintaining a balanced and natural tone without any harshness or sibilance. Despite not being overly pronounced, the highs contribute to the overall cohesiveness of the audio, blending seamlessly with the impressive midrange and low end of the Hype 2.



Summary
The ThieAudio Hype 2 has exceeded all my expectations and quickly become one of my favorites in my collection. These IEMs offer an exceptional sound experience that stands out for its impressive low end, captivating midrange, and smooth highs. Every aspect of the Hype 2's sound signature is a joy to listen to, providing a rich and immersive audio experience. I was genuinely surprised by the level of performance they deliver at such an affordable price point. If you're in search of outstanding sound quality without breaking the bank, the ThieAudio Hype 2 is a fantastic choice. They are truly worth every penny and have earned a permanent place in my daily listening lineup.

ThieAudio Hype 2 are available at Audio46.