Overview

The SEE Audio x Z Reviews Rinko is a hybrid IEM using a 10 mm dynamic driver and a 6 mm planar magnetic “micro planar” driver.[3] In the US market it typically sells for 99 USD.[3] The stock cable is 0.78 mm 2-pin and ships as either a 3.5 mm or 4.4 mm terminated variant—a modular plug set is not included.[3] Tuning is broadly V-shaped with elevated bass and treble.

Scientific Validity

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Per the manufacturer, Rinko is specified at THD+N ≤2%, 20 Hz–20 kHz frequency response, QA/QC tolerance ±1 dB, 30 Ω impedance, and 112 dB±1 dB sensitivity.[3] A ≤2% THD+N figure is relatively high for IEMs and does not inspire confidence for transparent playback. Independent lab measurements for Rinko remain limited; figures above are documented as manufacturer specs pending third-party verification.[3]

Technology Level

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The hybrid DD+planar recipe and 3D-printed shell are competent but not groundbreaking.[3] The 2-pin detachable cable and the option to buy either 3.5 mm or 4.4 mm terminations are practical choices, yet there is no notable technical innovation beyond the current norm.

Cost-Performance

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A more appropriate and cheaper equivalence benchmark is the TRUTHEAR x Crinacle ZERO (49.99 USD).[1][2] Functionally equivalent (wired IEM, 0.78 mm 2-pin, 3.5 mm termination), it shows objectively superior measurements: FR consistency σ=0.61 dB, harmonic distortion 0.06% @94 dB SPL / 0.22% @104 dB SPL, and overall passive isolation −16.34 dB, among others—clearly outperforming Rinko’s manufacturer-stated THD+N ≤2%.[2][3]
Therefore, CP = 49.99 USD ÷ 99 USD = 0.5.[1][2][3]

Reliability & Support

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Typical warranty coverage at major authorized retailers is 1 year for IEMs and 3 months for cables/adapters.[4][5] SEE Audio maintains multiple product releases, but long-term field reliability stats are scarce. Overall support is average for the segment.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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Splitting band duties across DD and planar drivers is rational, but the ≤2% THD+N spec suggests the design optimizes excitement over transparency.[3] A V-shaped target can be enjoyable for many listeners, yet it trades off fidelity to the master.

Advice

If you want an energetic V-shape, Rinko can be fun. If you value measurement-driven neutrality and technical rigor, TRUTHEAR x Crinacle ZERO (49.99 USD) offers lower measured distortion and tighter consistency at a lower price.[1][2] If you prefer a more tapered bass balance, consider the ZERO: RED (~55 USD) or step up to the TRUTHEAR HEXA (79 USD).[1][2]

References

[1] Headphones.com — “TRUTHEAR In-Ear Monitor Headphones” (collection page; lists ZERO at 49.99 USD, ZERO: RED at 54.99 USD), https://headphones.com/collections/truthear , accessed 2025-08-20
[2] RTINGS.com — “TRUTHEAR x Crinacle ZERO Headphones Review” (FR consistency σ=0.61 dB; harmonic distortion 0.06%/0.22%; overall passive isolation −16.34 dB, etc.), https://www.rtings.com/headphones/reviews/truthear/x-crinacle-zero , accessed 2025-08-20
[3] HiFiGo — “SeeAudio x Z Reviews Rinko 1DD+1 Planar Dual-Driver IEMs” (specs incl. 1DD+1 planar, THD+N ≤2%, 3.5 mm or 4.4 mm termination), https://hifigo.com/products/seeaudio-x-z-review-rinko , accessed 2025-08-20
[4] Linsoul — “Return Policy & Warranty” (IEM 1 year; cables/adapters 3 months), https://www.linsoul.com/pages/return-policy-and-warranty , accessed 2025-08-20
[5] HiFiGo — “Warranty & Refund Policy” (IEM 1 year; cables/adapters 3 months), https://hifigo.com/pages/warranty-refund-policy , accessed 2025-08-20

(2025.8.20)