The release of the Final Audio E4000 prompted one of our readers to ask the question, “What is the difference between the E4000 and E2000?”. To answer the question, I listened side-by-side to both. And the results are in! Here is the Final Audio E4000 vs Final Audio E2000 comparison review.

Final Audio E4000 vs Final Audio E2000 Comparison Review

In the Box – Final Audio E4000 vs Final Audio E2000 Comparison Review

Specifications – Final Audio E4000 vs Final Audio E2000 Comparison Review

Design – Final Audio E4000 vs Final Audio E2000 Comparison Review

Driver Housings

From the outside, the driver housing of the Final Audio E4000 is longer than the Final Audio E2000. This extra length is due to a more complex and measured acoustic chamber inside the housing. As a result, the E4000 has a more controlled low-frequency response than the E2000. On the other hand, the E2000 has an opening in the back to contribute to low frequency extension. It is covered with a mesh filter which prevents sound leakage, and that is visible from the outside. Since it is a smaller housing, it is also lighter than the E4000 so it stays in the ear even easier (which is really saying something since the E4000 already fits and stays very well).

Cable

Both the Final Audio E4000 and the Final Audio E2000 have OFC (oxygen-free-copper) cables.  However, the E4000 cable is detachable, complete with MMCX connectors– a popular connector-type with cable manufacturers. As a result, it has a higher level of durability and allows more customization because you can mix and match your E4000 with different cables (including a bluetooth cable or a high-end litz cable). Additionally, the base of the cable of the E4000 is individually insulated whereas left and right are in the same jacket of the E2000. Both the E4000 and the E2000 have super manageable cables that are the perfect length of 1.2 m.

Sound – Final Audio E4000 vs Final Audio E2000 Comparison Review

Low Frequencies

The low frequencies of the Final Audio E4000 and Final Audio E2000 have a similar feel in the way they respond to transients. However, the lows of the E4000 feel clearer and more even than the E2000. For example, in Kacey Musgrave’s song, Slow Burn, the bass guitar’s pitch and performance feels even and full with the E4000. Listening on the E2000, the bass guitar feels a bit boosted in the mix (to some folks’ pleasure). But some notes are louder than others, and it takes up more space. As a result,  the bass has plenty of power but also makes that region of the frequency response feel a little cramped.

Middle Frequencies

The midrange of the Final Audio E4000 is even, realistic, and spacious. Additionally, it’s wide dynamic range contributes to clarity in the soundstage. And while the dynamic range of the E2000 is big too, dynamics and transients feel more active on the E4000. On the other hand, the middle frequencies of the Final Audio E2000, is a bit recessed. It seems to have a V-shaped curve, so the mids aren’t as full and lifelike as the E4000. In addition, the high-mids are emphasized so vocals sit out in front. For example, in James Blake’s song, Waves on Shores, his vocal feels louder in the mix on the E2000 whereas the horns are all-encompassing and really surround you on the E4000.

High Frequencies

The high frequencies are even and have a great sense of extension on the Final Audio E4000. The E2000 feels nicely extended too. However it is emphasized and a bit uneven, so it seems less rich to me. For example, Miles Davis’s song, Freddie Freeloader, feels much more realistic with the E4000, especially in the high end. The cymbals are rich and sit properly in the mix. On the other hand, the Final Audio E2000 doesn’t have as much room to breath in the high end because of a boost there, so the full harmonics of the cymbal aren’t as clear.

Overview – Final Audio E4000 vs Final Audio E2000 Comparison Review

The Final Audio E2000 is a great earphone for those on a budget. It has a great dynamic range which really contributes to the emotional impact of music. Additionally, it has wonderful high frequency and low frequency extension. However, for those with a little wiggle room in their budget, the Final Audio E4000 is a real upgrade, and one that works extremely well with all genres.

The Final Audio E4000 and the Final Audio E2000 are available for the best price here:

Final Audio E4000 at Audio46

Final Audio E2000 at Audio46

Final Audio E2000 on Amazon

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