Kefine is a new brand looking to break into the Planar space with suspiciously similar sized planar drivers. I think they hit the nail on the head with a more straightforward sounding Timeless with less top end sibilance, and for almost half the price at $119.
A LITTLE HISTORY
Kefine is a newcomer named after the founder K and has teamed up with Refine in hopes of providing music lovers with exquisite audio products at an affordable price with the best value for money – that’s their motto. Klanar is also a play on words with Planar, in my opinion. The only criticism is that the box was difficult to open, but this only increased the interest in what was inside.
DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT
The included ear padsKefine Klanar are nothing special: a basic set of S/M/L.
The Kefine Klanar’s matte black anodized CNC aluminum body is sleek and without any awkward edges. Kefine understands that CNC enclosures don’t have to be heavy monsters that put a lot of strain on the ears after long periods of listening.
The logo on the body may not be attractive to everyone. Since this is a first product, it’s probably a smart choice. Discreet, unobtrusive and fits well into the interior – a good combination in my opinion. Keep in mind that the nozzles are typically large in diameter; I haven’t seen any smaller ones in a long time.
The medium-sized gray fabric zippered hard case is highly commendable. It protects them well and easily accommodates the ear pads. The cable is a little plasticky, but its quality is above entry level. In comparison, the 7HZ Timeless cable has a nicer feel, but the Kefine Klanar has a better 0.78mm two-pin connector. I prefer the two-pin plug for durability over the MMCX, which offers a swivel option instead. When ordering, the Kefine Klanar is available with a 3.5mm single-ended or 4.4mm balanced connection.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS
Every time I see another planar, I automatically assume that they must be similar to 7Hz Timeless, and so far Kefine Klanar – the only ones who came close to this. Bass sounds deep when needed, with good tactility. When compared with Timeless, they are equal in terms of technical capabilities. Articulated, transitional, fast and booming when needed.
Despite the fact that Kefine Klanar have a higher level in the low frequency region, a balance between bass and midrange enhancement in the pin, they are similar in sound quality to Timeless. Timeless sound deeper and fatter, while Kefine Klanar adds punch. Even the double drums in Symphony X – King of Terrors sound fast and with crisp bass notes, I remember being disappointed HIDIZS MP145 in this regard. a> Despite below-average sensitivity, the Kefine Klanar are easily controlled by my LG G8 smartphone or a simple dongle, and are a few decibels louder or more sensitive than the Timeless.
The power of the source is, of course, always welcome. The high frequency response is more consistent and correctly distributed between the left and right sides, my Timeless are not as well matched between the left and right sides. Kefine Klanar’s treble is where the balance shifts in its favor. Timeless were known for their U-shape with a rather over-the-top sparkle and treble airiness that could sometimes be almost excessive. T
he Kefine Klanar are softer but still offer excellent sound and clarity with fast transient dynamics. I like their balance, others might prefer the extra airiness of the Timeless. Despite the warmer bottom end, the tone is more digital than analog, which I think is a by-product of the demanding nature of a properly implemented planar driver. In general, the sound is correct, and nothing catches your eye. It’s that balance again. Vocals sound clean and without unnecessary harshness. The tools have good depth and space around them. Timeless sound a little wider, given the less forced vocals. I believe Kefine has configured Klanar to work with acoustic music. Drums are muted and mid-high frequencies are reduced to provide a more relaxed listening experience for energetic music.
The mids in the Kefine Klanar come forward, but not too much. At 1 KHz we are dealing with a rise of 10 dB, and at 600 Hz it approaches 13 dB.
Conclusion
Deep down I hoped that these planars would be up to the mark, but I didn’t have high hopes for them. I’m proud to say that Kefine Klanar have surprised me and given us a beautifully designed headphone that can compete with the Timeless if you feel like you need more mid-range presence or treble too much. The typical universal shaped case design can also be more attractive than the round bezels used in TImeless.
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