Synergy
Efficiency
The HiBy Yacht10 has a sensitivity of 95 dB at 1kHz and an impedance of 24Ω, making it relatively easy to drive even from low-powered sources. Most devices will provide sufficient volume without the need for additional amplification or a balanced source.
It includes 3.5mm, 4.4mm, and USB-C connectors, catering to both casual listeners and audio enthusiasts. The 3.5mm and USB-C options deliver ample loudness, while the 4.4mm connector offers more of a luxury choice for those with balanced setups.
Lower-volume listening reduces the excessive breathiness in vocals, making them smoother and more natural. Interestingly, subbass presence increases at this level, bringing better balance to the low end.
At higher volumes, the midbass becomes more dominant, creating a boomy and energetic bass response. However, the midrange takes a step back, losing some presence while detail retrieval improves.
Pairings
As the HiBy Yacht10 comes with its own USB-C connector, it has become my daily connector when using it. This addition made it a staple for my commuting needs, as it doesn’t require me to bring a dongle anymore.
Pairing it with the FiiO JA11 made it brighter than usual. It gave the vocals the missing presence and emphasis it needed.
Using it with the Colorfly CDA-M2 boosted the clarity and improved the separation. Its change is audible as separation isn’t a strong point of the Yacht10.
Using it with the HeartField R1, a portable R2R DAC, added a lot of body to the vocals. It made it more forward and intimate, a quality I felt the Yacht10 needed.
Select Comparisons
DUNU KIMA 2
Technical
The DUNU KIMA 2 is equipped with a next-generation DLC composite dome diaphragm dynamic driver, an improvement from the original KIMA.
This driver is housed in a dual-cavity acoustic structure, which minimizes unwanted resonance while improving tonal balance, bass control, and midrange accuracy.
Taking inspiration from the Falcon Ultra, the KIMA 2 integrates a high magnetic flux circuit system for enhanced efficiency and precision.
It combines with DUNU’s refined VERNUS Sound Mastery tuning to deliver a rich and dynamic sound, further optimized by strategic dampening materials to reduce distortion and improve stage presentation.
Design
The DUNU KIMA 2 keeps things sleek and modern with its geometric design and brushed metallic finish, striking a balance between sharp edges and a refined look.
It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to wear, while the gold-finished nozzle and subtle hump help keep it snug in the ear.
Branding is minimal yet stylish, with “KIMA 2” on one side and “Criz Faction” on the other, keeping the design clean and professional. For those who want something flashier, the limited emerald green version adds a shimmering, reflective touch that makes it stand out.
Performance
The HiBy Yacht10 delivers a stronger subbass, keeping a constant rumble, whereas the DUNU KIMA 2 prioritizes texture and control. The Yacht10 makes tracks feel fuller, but it doesn’t have the same clean and refined bass delivery as the KIMA 2.
The midbass impact is more evenly matched, yet the KIMA 2 edges ahead with a sharper, more defined punch. The Yacht10 leans on sheer power, but its looser bass presentation lacks the same level of precision.
When it comes to mids, the KIMA 2 takes the lead with forward and intimate vocals that feel rich and engaging. In contrast, the Yacht10 keeps vocals recessed, and its excessive breathiness makes them sound thinner and less natural.
Timbre follows the same trend, with the KIMA 2 delivering a warm and smooth presentation. The Yacht10’s uneven midrange introduces a slight metallic edge, making instruments and vocals feel less consistent.
Treble is where the Yacht10 fights back, bringing the energy and excitement that the KIMA 2 holds back with its neutral tuning. It also pulls out microdetails more effectively, exposing nuances that the KIMA 2 misses with its relaxed approach.
Soundstage and imaging are a clear win for the Yacht10, making the KIMA 2 feel boxed in by comparison. The Yacht10 expands the presentation with better spatial placement and layering, leaving the KIMA 2 stuck in its headspace.
AFUL Explorer
Technical
AFUL Explorer features a self-developed single dynamic driver and a dual BA driver setup, blending concepts from AFUL’s P series and Magicone.
The dynamic driver handles bass, while the two balanced armatures manage the mids and treble air region with an aluminum-magnesium alloy diaphragm for better high-frequency control.
AFUL integrates a multi-layered crossover to ensure proper driver separation, preventing frequency overlap. It also employs a special dampening system to balance ear pressure, enhancing bass response and comfort without added venting.
Design
The AFUL Explorer sports a striking starry night-inspired faceplate with deep blue and black glitter accents. The “EXPLORER” and “AFUL” branding sit cleanly on top, adding to its premium aesthetic.
Its shell continues with the dark blue theme, blending seamlessly with the faceplate in a smooth acrylic finish. A single vent near the nozzle supports its air pressure tuning, replacing the need for additional vents elsewhere.
Performance
The AFUL Explorer’s subbass delivers a harder hit with better note definition, making it the clear winner in depth and clarity. The Yacht10 struggles to match this, offering a weaker rumble that lacks the same level of refinement.
The mid-bass impact is similar between the two, with both offering a satisfying level of punch. However, Yacht10 edges ahead slightly with a stronger hit that lingers just a bit longer before decaying.
Both IEMs share a breathy vocal presentation, but the Explorer keeps it more controlled, leading to a more natural and realistic timbre. It also brings heavier note weight to vocals, making them sound richer and better defined than the Yacht10’s thinner and leaner delivery.
Vocal clarity leans in favor of the Explorer, as its darker but smoother tuning avoids the slight hollowness present in the Yacht10. The Yacht10 may push vocals forward more, but the Explorer’s fuller and more cohesive presentation feels more musical overall.
Treble is where the Yacht10 makes a strong comeback, offering better extension and far more air than the Explorer. Details that get buried in the Explorer become clearer and more refined on the Yacht10, making it the more revealing of the two.
Both IEMs have good imaging, but the Yacht10 takes it a step further with superior precision and staging depth. While the Explorer places different sounds accurately from left to right, the Yacht10 adds vertical positioning, creating a more immersive and layered experience.
My Verdict
HiBy fully embraces the cyberpunk aesthetic with the Yacht10, creating a bold yet comfortable design that feels secure in the ear. Its lightweight build sits flush, providing excellent isolation that effectively blocks out external noise.
The modular cable allows seamless swapping between 3.5mm, 4.4mm, and USB-C, featuring an intuitive screw-lock mechanism that makes switching effortless and secure.
Combined with its expansive soundstage and precise imaging, the Yacht10 delivers an immersive and engaging listening experience.
HiBy Yacht10 Technical Specifications
- Driver Type: One (1x) 10mm magnesium-aluminum dynamic driver
- Plug: 0.78mm 2-pin with a modular 3.5mm single-ended, 4.4mm balanced termination, and USB-C termination from a bundle
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 40kHz
- Impedance: 24Ω
- Sensitivity: 95 dB @1KHz
