Odyssey 2 IEM Review: A Strikingly Accurate Soundstage

ZiiGaat and Hangout.Audio just released their new generation of the original Odyssey IEM, the Odyssey 2.

After extensive testing, this hybrid IEM delivers performance that punches well above its $249 price point. But does it live up to the hype, or is it just another budget option? Here's my honest take.

Overview: What Makes the Odyssey 2 Special

The Odyssey 2 represents a collaboration between ZiiGaat's engineering expertise and Crinacle's tuning philosophy through Hangout.Audio. It's a carefully crafted hybrid that combines cutting-edge driver technology with practical design decisions.

Key Highlights:

• 1DD + 3BA hybrid configuration
• Bio-cellulose dynamic driver with genuine Knowles BA drivers
• CNC aluminum shell construction
• Premium 4-core OFC silver Litz cable
• $249 USD retail price

The Odyssey 2 immediately stands out with its professional presentation and premium feel, setting expectations high from the moment you unbox it.

What’s in the Box

• 1 x ZiiGaat x Hangout.Audio Odyssey 2 In Ear Monitor
• 6 x Pairs of silicone ear tips (S/M/L, black and transparent)
• 1 x Pair of foam ear tips (S/M/L)
• 1 x High-Performance 4-Core OFC + Silver Litz Cable
• 2 x Pairs of replaceable filters
• 1 x Premium carrying case
• 1 x 3.5mm plug
• 1 x 4.4mm plug
• 1 x Warranty card
• 1 x Wearing diagram/user instruction card

Sound Quality

The Odyssey 2 is tuned with a new reference target that captures a balanced, neutral sound. They deliver a detailed, highly accurate sound that is excellent for musicians, audiophiles, and professionals.

The Odyssey 2 gives such an accurate soundstage that we’ve even noticed nuances and intricacies in familiar songs that we haven't noticed before.

Bass

The 10mm bio-cellulose dynamic driver delivers excellent bass performance—punchy, controlled, and surprisingly refined. Unlike many budget hybrids that either sound bloated or anemic, the Odyssey 2 strikes an impressive balance and gives the exciting bass performance that many audiophiles look for.

Bass Characteristics:

• Deep sub-bass extension without muddiness
• Quick decay preventing bass bleed
• Textured mid-bass with excellent impact
• Not overpowering or boomy

Midrange

The midrange presentation is where the Odyssey 2 truly shines. The Knowles balanced armature drivers handle vocals with remarkable clarity and natural timbre. Male and female vocals both sound engaging without any unnatural coloration.

Midrange Strengths:

• Natural vocal reproduction
• Excellent instrument separation
• Forward but never shouty presentation
• Smooth transition between drivers

Treble

The high-frequency response deserves special praise. Many hybrid IEMs struggle with treble integration, but the Odyssey 2's Knowles tweeters deliver crisp, detailed highs without sibilance or fatigue.

Treble Performance:

• Extended frequency response
• Excellent air and spaciousness
• Non-fatiguing during long sessions
• Detailed without being analytical

Comfort: Built for Extended Sessions

Comfort is crucial for any IEM, and the Odyssey 2 delivers impressively. The CNC aluminum shell feels durable without being heavy, and the ergonomic design accommodates various ear shapes effectively. The Odyssey 2 fit securely in our ears, creating a tight seal, great isolation, and a non-fatiguing fit that stays comfortable for long periods.

Comfort Features:

• Lightweight aluminum construction
• Multiple ear tip options included
• Secure, light-weight fit without pressure points

I've worn these for 4+ hour sessions without discomfort—a testament to thoughtful ergonomic design.

Build Quality

The build quality of the Odyssey 2 immediately shows value. The CNC aluminum shell feels bulletproof, while the hand-poured resin faceplates add a unique aesthetic touch that makes each unit slightly different.

Construction Highlights:

• Durable aluminum alloy shells
• Unique resin faceplates
• Robust cable connections
• Quality control attention to detail

The premium 4-core OFC silver Litz cable deserves mention—it's supple, tangle-resistant, and features quality connectors that inspire confidence in long-term reliability.

Technical Specifications

Driver Configuration:

• 1x 10mm bio-cellulose dynamic driver
• 3x Knowles balanced armature drivers
• Hybrid crossover design

Technical Stats:

• Impedance: 18Ω
• Sensitivity: 104dB/mW
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz (extended)
• Cable: 4-core OFC silver Litz
• Connector: 0.78mm 2-pin

Value for Money: Exceptional Performance Per Dollar

At $249, the Odyssey 2 competes directly with established players like the Moondrop Blessing series and Sennheiser IE series. After extensive A/B testing, I can confidently say it holds its own against options costing significantly more.

Value Proposition:

• Sound quality rivals $400+ options
• Premium build quality and accessories
• Versatile tuning suitable for all genres

The included accessories alone would easily cost $50+ if purchased separately, making the overall package exceptional value.

How It Competes: Standing Among Giants

vs. Moondrop Blessing 2 ($320): The Odyssey 2 offers warmer, more engaging bass with similar midrange quality but slightly less analytical treble. Many will prefer the Odyssey 2's musicality.

vs. Sennheiser IE 300 ($300): The Odyssey 2 provides better technical performance, superior build quality, and more balanced tuning at a lower price point.

vs. ThieAudio Monarch MK2 ($400): While the Monarch edges out in pure resolution, the Odyssey 2 offers 85% of the performance at 60% of the price.

The Odyssey 2 successfully carves out its own niche as an excellent option that balances great sound, build-quality, and accurate tuning—all while keeping a very affordable rate for professionals and music fans.

Final Verdict

The ZiiGaat x Hangout.Audio Odyssey 2 succeeds where many hybrids fail: delivering coherent, engaging sound with premium build quality at a reasonable price. It's not perfect—no IEM is—but it comes remarkably close to being the ideal all-rounder for any music genre.

The Odyssey 2 earns my strong recommendation for audiophiles seeking premium performance without premium pricing. Whether you're a casual listener upgrading from earbuds or an experienced audiophile looking for excellent value, the Odyssey 2 delivers.

The ZiiGaat x Hangout.Audio Odyssey 2 exceeds expectations, setting a new standard for what's possible in the sub-$250 hybrid IEM market.