Kinera has long been a highlight in the ChiFi scene, known for its gorgeously designed IEMs such are the Loki, Baldr, and Freya, which all have price tags as eye-catching as their aesthetics. However, the luxury of these high-end models is not available to everyone, which is most likely why Kinera created the Celest sub-brand, which tries to provide high-quality sound to a more budget-conscious audience. how about Celest Wyvern Qing !!
The Celest brand produces several prominent models, including the Gumiho, Pandamon, and Wyvern Abyss (also known as the Wyvern Black). Today, we’ll look into the Wyvern Qing, an IEM that is simply an alternate version of the Wyvern Abyss. Both IEMs have the same driver arrangement and, other from the faceplate and shell design, are nearly similar.
What It Is
The Celest Wyvern Qing dynamic driver has a 10mm LCP diaphragm and is calibrated to match the 2019 Harman target response curve. It also features “high-precision” DLP 3D-printed resin shells and a PVC-decorated faceplate, giving the IEM a somewhat sleek appearance. In terms of pricing, it is now available for $25 (about RM110) on HiFiGo, which also supplied us this Wyvern Qing review unit.
It’s worth mentioning that the Wyvern Qing name is derived from the Azure Dragon of Chinese mythology, with a grandiose tale. The packaging is simple and lacks the lavish display expected from its legendary moniker. Heck, the IEM does not even come with a carrying bag or pouch.
Provided Cable
I’ve probably been spoiled recently by the quality of the cables offered with these unimpressive IEMs, but I did believe this cable was a little inferior than, say, the one that comes with the Truthear Gate:
Anyway, the Wyvern Qing’s stock cable is a 0.78mm 2-pin high-purity OFC silver-plated wire. However, it’s worth mentioning that this review unit is the microphone version, which has a black oxygen-free copper cable instead. If you want the convenience of a microphone, this version of the Qing is only $1 extra.
Interestingly, the Wyvern Qing comes with a stock set of ear tips labeled “Celest Custom 221 Vocal Tips” that are said to emphasize higher frequencies for improved vocal performance. Basically, these are large bore ear tips that should boost the highs.
How Does It Sound?
Naturally, as indicated, the Wyvern Qing closely follows the well-known Harman target curve. It has a rumbly low-end, a warm and pleasant tonality in general, and average soundstage and detail retrieval, which is more than adequate for a budget IEM at this price.
Bass
The Wyvern Qing boasts a strong sub-bass and plenty of low-end depth and rumble. The mid-bass also helps to create a warm and powerful sound, adding fullness without spilling into the mids, which is excellent.
Mids
The Wyvern Qing’s tuning signature enhances the clarity and forwardness of female vocals, making them sharp and strong. However, this emphasis on the upper midrange can make female vocals seem thin and dry. The midrange is well-isolated, but the absence of warmth and body may disappoint listeners who prefer a richer, more textured vocal experience.
Highs
The Wyvern Qing’s treble response features a rolled-off higher end. This contributes to a smooth, fatigue-free listening experience, but it also means that the treble lacks the sharpness and sparkle found in other IEMs. The highs are present and well-defined, but the roll-off can result in a less dynamic and airy sound.
Specifications and Measurements
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 32Ω |
| Sensitivity | 105dB |
| Frequency Response Range | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Connectors | 0.78mm 2-Pin Connectors |
| Termination | 3.5mm |
| Driver Unit | 10mm LCP Diaphragm Dynamic Driver |
Frequency Response
So lets start with the frequency response:
As you can see, the bass and most of the frequency response are extremely consistent with the Harman aim, with the exception of the upper midrange 1.5K to 3K area, which is accentuated due to the vocal forward sound signature.
Comparing to other similar well tuned and similarly priced IEMs:
You can observe that the Wyvern Qing is slightly more forward in the 3K area and little more recessed in the treble area than the Nuo, but it is otherwise fairly comparable to the Truthear Gate. Given the quality of its IEM shells, the Kinera Celest Wyvern Qing has a remarkable sound signature for its price, while the Gate has a far superior cable.
Distortion
The Distortion is handled very well for this price:
Even as a percentage, this is minimal distortion ( I measured this at over 100 db ):
Great IEM for EQ but not needed
Given its outstanding sound character, the Qing does not require EQ (unless it is your own preference), but it will respond incredibly well to EQ because it can handle playing extremely loud with minimum distortion, has a high sensitivity of 105dB, and has strong channel balance.
Is It Worth It?
At $29, the Kinera Celest Wyvern Qing is a good competitor for anyone wishing to get into the ChiFi pastime without breaking the bank. The looks and build quality of the IEM are commendable, yet the lack of a carrying pouch or case may be a disadvantage for some people. With that in mind, while I personally like the Wyvern Qing’s sound characteristic.
You can buy it from its website or from Amazon.
Conclusion
The Wyvern Qing has a very outstanding sound profile, especially for those who prefer a vocal-forward presentation, and its strong bass and imaging make it a great IEM for the price. I also think the IEM shell’s design and craftsmanship are remarkable. However, the fit may not be great for everyone, and the cable was quite weak, but at this price, this is a small point.
The Wyvern Qing therefore provides excellent value for its price and is a formidable candidate in the cheap IEM category.
