I’ve been testing the Graffiti version of the Arete 2, the ZiiGaat and Fresh Reviews collaboration. This 1DD 4BA hybrid combines a warm, comfortable balance with a bass switch that adds real impact. Its precise 3D positioning also makes it useful for games, giving it a role beyond music listening alone.
Unboxing and Contents
The Arete 2 units sit at the front of a fairly comprehensive accessory set.
The stock ear tips include 6 pairs of silicone tips in black and white, along with 1 pair of foam tips for better noise isolation. You have plenty of options to test depending on your ear shape or comfort preference.
The included cable uses silver-plated oxygen-free copper (OFC). It features a modular termination design, allowing you to easily swap between 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced plugs.
Also included are four spare nozzle filter meshes, a brown ZiiGaat carrying case, and a user manual. The package is ready for immediate use without needing any additional purchases.
Design and Comfort
The Arete 2 uses CNC-machined aluminum where many rivals use resin. The Graffiti finish adds a street-art look to the cool, solid feel of the metal. It’s a distinctive combination in this market.
The unit size is medium-to-small. The nozzle angle is designed to match the curvature of the ear canal, so it should fit well even for those with smaller ears. Thanks to the shallow-fit design, there is minimal pressure on the ear canal. Given the metal material, the housing might feel quite cold when first worn outdoors in winter, but it is perfectly fine for current summer temperatures.
Testing Environment
With specs of 24 ohms and 104dB, the Arete 2 is not difficult to drive. For precise sound evaluation, I used two setups. For indoor desk use, I matched it with the S.M.S.L DO400 desktop DAC to assess maximum resolution and background quietness. For mobile use, I paired it with the NICEHCK Octave dongle DAC, which provides 550mW of power at the 4.4mm balanced output. I focused on the textural changes triggered by the bass switch during both music playback and gaming sessions.
Sound Analysis
Treble
The two Knowles SWFK 31736 BA drivers handle the highs, tuned to avoid harshness. By skillfully smoothing out sibilant frequencies, the IEM avoids ear fatigue even during long listening sessions. However, you might notice a slight metallic BA timbre in certain high-frequency regions. If you prefer an open, airy top end, you might find it a bit constrained.
Midrange
The midrange, where vocals and main instruments reside, is natural and warm. Two Knowles ED 29689 drivers provide a solid foundation. Both male and female vocals are reproduced with balanced clarity, neither leaning too far in one direction. Vocals feel forward and distinct without being masked. It maintains a warm-toned character while smoothly guiding the atmosphere of the music.
Bass
The 10mm liquid silicone dynamic driver is the star here. When the bass switch is toggled, the sub-bass and lower-midrange are boosted by approximately 5dB. The sound doesn’t bleed or get muddy; it precisely emphasizes the sub-bass depth and impact. It creates a punchy sensation like having a mini-subwoofer against your ears—truly shining in hip-hop and EDM. It’s an excellent gimmick that adds fun to the sound signature.
Resolution and Imaging
The stage isn’t especially wide, but I find the placement of sounds more impressive than its sheer scale. Instruments form at definite positions rather than relying on a grand spread from side to side. That sense of direction seems promising for identifying footsteps in FPS games such as PUBG. I would expect that positional clarity to make those games more involving. The presentation compensates for its relatively contained space through precise placement. Left-right separation is also clear, keeping the instruments distinguishable when an arrangement becomes complex.
Daily Use and Verdict
I used the Arete 2 as my primary receiver for daily commuting and weekend desktop gaming. Its strength is most evident when playing rhythm games like DJMAX. Even amidst a flood of complex electronic sounds, percussive elements and bass lines remained clearly separated, making it easy to track the beat. Flipping the switch adds a heavy punch that makes rhythm games significantly more engaging.
The Arete 2 physical bass switch proved very useful in day-to-day listening. I could leave the response flatter for casual music, then switch in more impact when I wanted greater involvement. Making that change directly on the shell is satisfying: it feels rather like alternating between earphones with different personalities. The substantial aluminum body and Graffiti finish also give the pair a place as an interesting object in the desk setup. What appeals is the combination of a comfortable warm base and a distinctly stronger punch available when I want it. That flexibility is a significant part of the value for me.
Pros and Cons
Recommended for those who need heavy impact and precise sound play:
- Powerful Physical Impact: Instant, tight sub-bass punch via the bass switch.
- Multi-Purpose Audio: Excellent 3D imaging for music, FPS, and rhythm games.
- Build Quality: Premium, aircraft-grade full aluminum housing that stands out from resin competitors.
Not recommended for those who prioritize openness and deep insertion:
- Limited Soundstage/Airiness: If you prefer ultra-airy highs or vast soundstages, it may feel a bit congested.
- Shallow Fit: Might cause initial discomfort for those used to deep-insertion IEMs.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
Source matching deserves attention if you want to get the most from this tuning. The earphones already have a substantial, comfortable warmth, so combining them with an equally warm DAC can make the presentation feel blunter. My preference is to balance that character with a cooler, quicker source such as the Octave. The aim is to keep the existing impact while giving the mids and treble a more clearly defined edge. That contrast helps bring out the detail and positional character without losing what makes the bass enjoyable. It is the direction I would particularly recommend for a setup intended for FPS or rhythm games.
Conclusion
The Arete 2 has a clear identity: comfortable warmth, an effective bass switch, and a distinctive Graffiti finish. If you’re looking for sturdy wired earphones to handle both music and gaming, it’s a worthwhile addition to the shortlist.
