https://www.amazon.com/Headphones-Mixcder-Housing-Reducing-Smartphones/dp/B06XD6QTT7/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492515246&sr=8-1&keywords=Mixcder+X5
 
 
 
Disclaimer:
I am a hobbyist only. I am NOT affiliated with any sellers or manufacturers for items that may be used in my review, nor at this time am I provided with any samples for endorsement or reviews. I purchase all of my own gear. I do However, post links to the particular individual seller from whom I have made my purchase of the item under review. These reviews reflect my personal opinions of the performance and general information about the item, and should not be used as a basis for any purchase. As I am a Tad sensitive to higher frequencies, your impressions may also vary from my own. I will try to offer comparisons as long as I have something similar both in price and construction to compare. If however at any time I am provided a sample for review, I will disclose this fact immediately on an additional disclaimer.
 
 
Preamble and additional Disclaimer:
I would like to thank Mixcder and Denise for supplying me a review sample in return for an honest review of their new product. I wish I had enough time parameter for a Full burn in and Complete comparison however.  For this Writer a week simply isn’t enough, and my opinions can drastically change with time permitting. I certainly hope I haven't done an injustice to these finely Crafted IEMs with a hasty review.
 
 
Specifications:  They are available from Seller’s Link above
 
 
 
At the risk of redundancy this is an abreviated Photo of The X5 and Packaging:

 
 
Construction: 
Mildly surprised about the construction of these. On close inspection all major components are nicely finished METAL, IEM Housings, Line Mic., Y splitter and Cinch and Plug and Body. Well molded rubber standoffs everywhere, and a surprisingly robust feeling cable. At first I thought it was just your regular Teflon sheathed stuff but once I felt and inspected it, the cable appears to be braided cloth with a rubberized outer coating. These should wear very well. No noticeable microphonics either. As I don’t use a Mic. I will leave this aspect up to other reviewers.
 
 
Source Details: 
For this particular review I used my Shanling M5 coupled with an Aune B1 portable amp. My Files are all at Least 320kbps to 96khz high resolution files. I used this source in all comparisons.   
 
 
Source Material:
The following is a list of songs that I used in this review. Some I use all the time, some less frequently. They all contain some type of frequency, Detail, or EQ that make them suitable for reference.
 
Christina Novelli -- Concrete Angel (Long Version)
Christina Novelli – Save Me (Long Version)
Weather Report --- Mysterious Traveler (various cuts)
John Bryson --- Let the Pipes play (full pipe organ album 1^st Cut)
Vivaldi – Four Seasons
Dire Straits --- Sultans of Swing
SOAK --- Immigrant Song
Infected Mushroom --- Kipod
Lee Rittenour --- 6 String Theory (various cuts)
Mahavishnu Orchestra --- Birds of Fire
 
 
 
 
General Sound Quality:
They are a V Shaped EQ with a well-controlled and somewhat elevated Mid Bass. Some Sub Bass extension, some rumble, however it is maybe a little Loose on the basement floor. Nice Mids. Not too forward or so recessed that you can't make out vocals, just a nice neutral - ISH sweet spot. I tried some pretty sibilant stuff but the Highs are rolled off enough that it wasn't a Factor. Fair Detail and Micro Details. Rather smallish sound stage.  All in all a Pleasant, (albeit consumer-oriented), and what should be non-fatiguing listen for most.
 
 
 
Bass:
 The sub-bass extension is Fair, and the X5 handles them with some questionable looseness. The Mid Bass, is somewhat elevated, and can bleed over a tad when presented with Bass-heavy material. Over all the Bass frequencies are fairly well-mannered if not average for a V shaped EQ.
 
 
Mids:
Mids Are in a nice place, maybe a little recessed but still good. They lack Upper airiness and Detail, which along with the rolled off Treble give the X5 a darker but certainly listenable presence.
 
 
Treble:
The Treble is… well, not harsh, piercing, or intrusive in any way. I find them to have a roll off  before the onset of brightness which lends them to a quite listenable, but helps to further accentuate a somewhat darker quality. They lack detail however.
 
 
 
Photo of the 3 single driver IEMs in my brief comparison. I forgot to include the KZ ED9 in the family pic:

 
 
 
Comparisons:
As a week is just too, short of time for some burn-in and In-depth comparisons, I will give the Simple Facts, BUT THESE ARE MY PERSONAL OPINION ONLY, Please do not use this as a scale for opinions concerning purchasing as YMMV.
 
Mixcder X5 > Memt X5
 
Zero Audio Carbo Tenore > Mixcder X5 (Keep in mind the Tenores are about 2x $$$$)
 
Mixcder X5 > KZ ED9 (bright brass filter)
 
 
 
Conclusion:
Price point, Construction, and Performance Equal a Budget product that competently does what an IEM is supposed to do. I can recommend this IEM as a good place to start in this hobby, Gym use, or even Daily commuters. Even if you are a seasoned listener.

 https://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Newest-MaGaosi-Hybrid-In-Ear-Earphone-2BA-with-1DD-HIFI-Bass-Metal-In-Ear-Headset-With/119089_32737134982.html?spm=2114.12010615.0.0.qDUD2h
 
 
 
Disclaimer:
I am a hobbyist only. I am NOT affiliated with any sellers or manufacturers for items that may be used in my review, nor at this time am I provided with any samples for endorsement or reviews. I purchase all of my own gear. I do However, post links to the particular individual seller from whom I have made my purchase of the item under review. These reviews reflect my personal opinions of the performance and general information about the item, and should not be used as a basis for any purchase. As I am a Tad sensitive to higher frequencies, your impressions may also vary from my own. I will try to offer comparisons as long as I have something similar both in price and construction to compare. If however at any time I am provided a sample for review, I will disclose this fact immediately on an additional disclaimer.
 
 
 
 Preamble and additional Disclaimer:
While anxiously waiting for some Upgrade to the Magaosi K1, which is quite impressive in its own right, (but unfortunately suffered from some quality control issues), I was contacted by July the owner of AK Audio upon the arrival of the “new” K3.  I was offered a sample at a reduced cost in return for an in-depth review.  (Unfortunately it was upgraded with interchangeable nozzles as the K3 Pro shortly after I received my pair)
 
 
A Few Stock Photos:

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
This is what You Get:

 
 
Here are my Pair, showing the Upgrade cable attached.
 

 
 
 
Just Elegant The earphones. Not the Desk.

 
 
 
 
 
Specifications:  They are available from the Seller’s Link above
 
 
 
Construction: 
Nicely finished Satin Black. Kind of “Oval” shaped, but very ergonomic in-ear fit all metal body that is rather elegant looking. MCXX connectors incorporated with quite visible L/R markings on each.  Fixed wide diameter nozzles, (On this Original Version review), with 2 Tiny Ports on the outer half of the body shell. All being said once fitted in the ear they simply disappear they are so comfortable. Inside they feature a PERFECTLY tuned Knowles 30017 Twin B/A and a Dynamic driver of Indeterminate Spec, I am Guessing at Least 9mm most likely provided by Sanhoo as their predecessor K1's were so equipped.  The CABLE looks to be silver plated soft wire with brushed Chrome and Black MCXX connectors traveling down the rather robust feeling wire to an odd looking chrome barreled with rubber flex boot on the “Y” splitter that coincidentally matches the Body on the 3.5 Plug. It has Clear Memory Sleeves on the MCXX ends that I personally find QUITE annoying, so I opted to use my Solid Silver upgrade cables. But as it goes one of the nicer OEM Cables I have seen on Asian IEMs.
 
 
 
 
Source Details: 
For this particular review I used my Shanling M5 coupled with an Aune B1 portable amp and also a Rockboxed Xduoo X3 coupled to a Fiio E12 Mont Blanc amp. My Files are all at Least 320kbps to 96khz high resolution files. I used these sources in all comparisons.  The Shanling combo provides a somewhat smoother darker sound than the Xduoo which tends to be much brighter without as much resolution. Note I have added a Solid Silver MCXX cable to the IEMs in lieu of the Stock.
 
 
 
Source Material:
The following is a list of songs that I used in this review. Some I use all the time, some less frequently. They all contain some type of frequency, Detail, or EQ that make them suitable for reference.
 
Christina Novelli -- Concrete Angel (Long Version)
Ai Takekawa – Beyond the Moon ( Long Version)
John Bryson --- Let the Pipes play (full pipe organ album 1^st Cut)
Vivaldi – Four Seasons
Dire Straits --- Sultans of Swing
SOAK --- Immigrant Song
Infected Mushroom --- Pink Nightmares
Robert Cray --- Strong Persuader (various Cuts)
 
 
 
 
General Sound Quality:
 
 
WOW. Even without a Huge Battery of interchangeable nozzles this IEM keeps up with the best of them. In this reviewers opinion quite possibly the best implementation of the Knowles 30017 Balanced armature yet. I would say these IEMs are borderline midcentric with that focus on the Vocal Range, particularly female. I absolutely LOVE this. This seems to be the Magaosi “house sound” as the K1 and M3 also display this insanely good vocal presentation abilities. NOT that the other frequencies have been neglected either. A rich full Deep Bass with Great Sub Extension that is authoritative, tight, well controlled and bleedless. The treble is exactly where it should be. Not Overdone, sibilant, or shouty and rolls off before it becomes offensive even with a bright Player and an upgraded Silver Cable that tends to accentuate brightness in IEMs. Let’s get to the sound stage: Wide and Deep in all dimensions with superb Clarity, Layering and Placement within. I really can’t fault it at all, and believe me I tried, being a devout LZ A4 fanboy. I’m most likely gonna catch some Flack here, BUT….
if I were given a desert island Choice of the LZ A4 or the Magaosi K3, hands down it is the K3.
 
 
 
Bass:
The sub-bass extension hits some pretty low depths, and handles them flawlessly with no Bloating or distortion whatsoever, it also has an excellent quality with a dynamic combination of punch and low end rumble without a trace of Bleed over that I can detect. Same applies for the Mid Bass. Over all the Bass frequencies are well-mannered and unobtrusive but they certainly let you know there is some serious Bass on tap here.
 
 
 
Mids:
In short They are to die for. Sweet, precise, no sibilance of Vocals, Cymbals or other mid range Instruments or effects that I can ascertain. They have these balanced armatures tuned VERY well. I really can’t say enough about the sweetness of the Mids. Magaosi got THIS frequency down to a science
 
 
 
Treble:
The Treble is… well,   in a very good place.  NOT harsh, piercing or intrusive in any way. I find them with a certain rolled off quality just barely before the onset of brightness which lends them to a quite listenable, but not actually a dark quality. Certainly not as etched as many IEMs with B/A’s can often be. Despite this it has excellent detail and clarity with an airiness and very natural Quality. Once again a triumph for the 30017 B/A implementation in this IEM.
 
 
 
 
Comparisons:
VS.  Magaosi K1 (maybe even a little LZ A4)
 
 
 
Well now….  It’s another rare occasion to be able to compare 2 earphones by the same manufacturer with the same driver configuration. The last one was the LZ A2 Pro vs The LZ A4. A rather Apples to Oranges comparison in terms of construction and over all sound quality.
But here we have 2 similar shaped IEMs from the Same Manufacturer that simply beg for a Comparison. OK , Think Upgrade. The K3 is simply a More Refined version of an already Great earphone the K1. The K1 is coarser and may have a Tad more Bass But the K3 simply kills it for overall sound and Clarity. In fact it has even surpassed the LZ A4 as my go to earphone both in Fit and on A/B comparison sound as well. Some will probably not agree, but remember a review IS ONLY someone’s personal opinion, and this is mine and I stand by it.
 
 
 
 
 
Conclusion:
Price point, Construction, refinement of sound particularly in the B/A armature presentation, comfort, This new Magaosi K3 has it ALL.
Not much Flash and Gore here, but this IEM does what an IEM is supposed to do. I HIGHLY Recommend the K3, if something were to ever happen to it I would immediately replace it. A rather bold statement for a not exactly inexpensive IEM. If there is ever a survey, so far this one has my nomination for best New IEM of 2017. I  LOVE it. Now If I can only get my hands on the Upgrade Version K3 Pro….
 
 
Thank You July @ AK Audio for providing this fine Earphone for my Review.

https://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/2016-Newest-LZ-A3s-3-5mm-In-Ear-Earphones-2BA-1DD-Driver-Hybrid-In-Ear-Headset/119089_32768034802.html?spm=2114.12010608.0.0.tCI14q
 
 
 
 Preamble:
While perusing Aliexpress I found this new arrival at AK Audio and upon contacting July the owner, I was delighted to be sent a sample in return for an in-depth review.
 
Disclaimer:
I am a hobbyist only. I am NOT affiliated with any sellers or manufacturers for items that may be used in my review, nor at this time am I provided with any samples for endorsement or reviews. I purchase all of my own gear. I do However, post links to the particular individual seller from whom I have made my purchase of the item under review. These reviews reflect my personal opinions of the performance and general information about the item, and should not be used as a basis for any purchase. As I am sensitive to higher frequencies, your impressions may also vary from my own. I will try to offer comparisons as long as I have something similar both in price and construction to compare. If however at any time I am provided a sample for review, I will disclose this fact immediately on an additional disclaimer.
 
At this point it would be redundant to include the same pictures, as everyone else has clearly done a great presentation in the previous reviews. I simply offer one Confirmation Pic of my own, note the Red and Blue Filters, Stock Silicone tips, (which I find quite good with these IEMs) and My solid Silver Cable.
 
 

 
 
Specifications:  They are available from the Seller’s Link above
 
Construction: 
The build seems quite well executed. The LZ A4 is a hybrid IEM featuring two B/A and one Dynamic driver. The housing front and rear are all metal and have a plastic body with the MCXX connectors sandwiched between them. It’s definitely plastic as I can dig into it with a fingernail. They have a nice weight to them and aren’t as heavy as they look. There is an extensive filter array, (both rear porting and nozzle), with nice little “O rings” that stay in place once screwed-in. Left/Right markings are on both housings and quite legible. The design allows them to be worn over ear or down cabled without switching the orientation of the earpieces, Nice Touch here. The maker also provides a nice “Tin” for filter storage, quite well executed however the Foam insert will sometimes grab the “O” rings and strip them off the filters on removal from the tin. If you pay attention this won’t be a problem. Any specialty plumbing shop will be able to provide you with replacement “O” rings in these sizes even tiny as they are. Now let’s get onto the cable.
Although it matches the color scheme of the IEM, I was a little disappointed in the lackluster cable that came with the A4. I mean, in comparison with the very nice braided cable that came with this manufacturers A3 model, this one seems a little austere. I guess I was kind of expecting more from this “Flagship” design. NOT that the cable is bad, (at least its round). It’s a nicely rubberized and very pliable black cable with two longish black plastic MCXX connector bodies that are also marked L/R that travel down rather slim earpiece cables to a plastic “Y” splitter shaped somewhat like a shield, but first passing through a separate chin slider. The main cable, now somewhat thicker, travels down to a Plastic bodied 45 Degree 3.5 Plug. A nice touch here is the Added Velcro Strap for cable storage. This being said, I am using my solid silver cables on this baby. All-in-all, this is a nicely built well thought out IEM.
 
 
Source Details: 
For this particular review I used my Shanling M5 coupled with an Aune B1 portable amp and also  a Schiit Audio Vali headphone amp. Line out from source to both amps. My Files are all at Least 320kbps to 96khz high resolution files. I used this source in all comparisons. Note that there were no appreciable differences noted in sound quality using the 2 different amp sources. Note I have added a Solid Silver MCXX cable to the IEMs in lieu of the Stock.
 
Source Material:
The following is a list of songs that I used in this review. Some I use all the time, some less frequently. They all contain some type of frequency, Detail, or EQ that make them suitable for reference.
 
Christina Novelli -- Concrete Angel (Long Version)
Alter Bridge – Find the Real
Nadia Ali -- Fantasy
Ai Takekawa – Beyond the Moon (Short  and Long Version)
Reflect – Need to feel loved
John Bryson --- Let the Pipes play (full pipe organ album 1^st Cut)
Gustav Mahler --- Performed by the London Philharmonic Various selections
Vivaldi – Four Seasons
Dire Straits --- Sultans of Swing
Jonny Lang --- Red Light / Give Me Up
SOAK --- Immigrant Song
 
 
General Sound Quality:
 
When it comes to detail and definition the LZ A4 are certainly next level. It is quite apparent in the wide and deep soundstage where instrument layering and placement are superb. For my  review,  all of the impressions are with the Red back filters and Blue front filters, simply as they provide the greatest frequency range.  The overall signature of the A4 is large and upfront. It takes no prisoners regardless of your preference of filter combinations. Soundstage is large in all directions with a high degree of resolution, Layering and positioning, clarity, and micro details that are perfect. This is a VERY nice earphone.
 
Bass:
 
The sub-bass extension on the A4 not only attains subterranean depths, it also has an excellent quality, but it doesn't impose itself into the source music until it is called for.  The A4 has a very well controlled mid-bass and doesn’t bleed over into the low Mids.  I feel the Sub bass doesn’t extend quite as low as the Shockwave III but it is VERY close. It is just so good and Natural It’s hard not to enjoy it
 
 Mids:
 
I find the Mids quite balanced even though the Filter combination I am using would tend to be the most V shaped. I find them neither too forward nor recessed with vocals being spot on and most instruments that work in this range simply sparkle with excitement.  All in all, a very natural presentation.
 
Treble:
 
The Treble is just as sweet as the other frequencies. Maybe just a tad ahead of the Mids, but remember I am using the Full-Range filter combination. They are by NO MEANS harsh or awkward in any way. They are simply tuned to stay compatible with the other frequencies. Over all the Treble lends a light and Airy quality and certainly some definition where its needed.
 
 Comparisons:
 
VS. Shockwave III
 
Actually a rather lopsided comparison 5 Drivers vs. 3, But that’s JUST how good The LZA4 is!! It keeps up with the Shockwave only Lacking just a Tad bit of Detail and width of soundstage. On the other hand, the sound signature of the LZA4 is quite a bit more relaxing and listenable for a long period of time than the more clinical precision of the Shockwave III. I must confess The LZA4 will now take its place as my GO TO IEM, leaving the Shockwaves for Critical listening sessions. They are Both Stellar and I simply can’t live without either.
 
 
Conclusion:
The LZ A4 is simply One of the best IEM’s I’ve listened to so far. It keeps up with many multi driver CIEMs costing Many times their Price point. I think the LZ A4 has outstanding performance, quality sound and decent build at a reasonable price. It has a warm inviting sound with a Huge involving Soundstage, great detail and layering, PLUS you can customize it to your own Tastes. What MORE could you ask For?
Well, Price.  Funny Thing, it is a SUB $200 IEM!!!!  Truly at this pricepoint the LZA4 has reached the pinnacle in it’s pricerange. You NEED to, (at the very minimum), treat yourself to an audition of these amazing new IEMs.

https://www.aliexpress.com/store/119089?spm=2114.10010108.0.31.Gqsf27
 
 
Preamble:
While perusing aliexpress I found this new arrival at AK Audio and upon contacting July the owner was persuaded to buy it for a significantly reduced price in return for an in Depth review.
 
 
Disclaimer:
I am a hobbyist only. I am NOT affiliated with any sellers or manufacturers for items that may be used in my review, nor at this time am I provided with any samples for endorsement or reviews. I purchase all of my own gear. I do However, post links to the particular individual seller from whom I have made my purchase of the item under review. These reviews reflect my personal opinions of the performance and general information about the item, and should not be used as a basis for any purchase. As I am sensitive to higher frequencies, your impressions may also vary from my own. I will try to offer comparisons as long as I have something similar both in price and construction to compare. If however at any time I am provided a sample for review, I will disclose this fact immediately on an additional disclaimer.
Please also note an absence of graphs unless they are included in the Seller's links. Although they are a great tool for determining what kind of EQ or other characteristics a particular IEM or Headphone should have,  alas all too often my own experience upon listening with my ears, tells me something different. Sometimes radically so. I may be correct I might not be, sound quality is VERY subjective at best. Therefore I will leave the scientific data, analysis and comparisons to more qualified and experienced reviewers.
 
Please note there is a limitation on space so not all photos were able to be included.
 
 
Simple elegant Presentation case with slide out drawer:

 
 
Not shown is the Foam insert or the bag of 3 sizes of red-core silicon tips:

 
 
In all their Glory, the Moni One. The Cable is not Standard that is a solid silver upgrade:

 
 
Nice closeup of the Left side. (I know it's left 'cause of the Blue dot I put on the cable):

 
 
Looking down the receiving end:

 
 
Here is the stock cable, MCXX ends not shown due to the Fact they are connected to another IEM:

 
 
nicely done Splitter and plug end:

 
 
Missing MCXX Connector:

 
 
 
Specifications:  They are available from the Seller’s Link above
 
Construction: 
  It’s built like a tank, with an all metal somewhat cylindrical shaped metal body, (most likely Aluminum due to light weight), with a short black plastic? (could be Metal), standoff for the connection of a removable MMCX cable. Body has a single offset vent in the rear and one on the nozzle as well.  It is finished in a rather attractive rose gold color. It comes with a nicely supple silver plated copper cable, with black rubber connectors at the MCXX end. It travels down to a metal splitter with chin slider finished in satiny smoke black color as well as the 3.5 connector body. Also there is no Left/Right orientation OOTB for the earpieces. Orientation depends on which side of the Cable you attach them to.
 
 
Source Details: 
For this particular review I used my Shanling M5 coupled with an Aune B1 portable amp and also  a Schiit Audio Vali headphone amp. Line out from source to both amps. My Files are all at Least 320kbps to 96khz high resolution files. I used this source in all comparisons. Note that there were no appreciable differences noted in sound quality using the 2 different amp sources. Note I have added a Solid Silver MCXX cable to the IEMs in lieu of the Stock.
 
Source Material:
The following is a list of songs that I used in this review. Some I use all the time, some less frequently. They all contain some type of frequency, Detail, or EQ that make them suitable for reference.
 
 Christina Novelli -- Concrete Angel (Long Version)
John Mayer --- Only Heart / Gravity
Robert Plant --- Far Post / Come into my Life
Ai Takekawa – Beyond the Moon (Short  and Long Version)
Johnny Cash --- Hurt
John Bryson --- Let the Pipes play (full pipe organ album 1^st Cut)
Gustav Mahler --- Performed by the London Philharmonic Various selections
Dire Straits --- Sultans of Swing
Panic! At the Disco --- Ready to go
SOAK --- Immigrant Song
 
 
General Sound Quality:
This earphone strikes me as one of the better ones I’ve heard recently. Extremely clear and detailed and a rather interesting EQ at times approaching balanced. Out of the Box it appears to have a reverse “L” shape with more extended treble than the other frequencies. If you close off the two ports on the Nozzles they gain enough Bass to make them a very shallow “V” or “U” shape. When it comes to Detail and definition the Moni are next level. It is quite apparent in the Wide and Deep soundstage where instrument layering and placement are superb.
 
 Bass:  From the onset let me state that there is already a mod for this IEM that significantly increases Bass quantity. It simply involves covering the Tiny Port on each nozzle. I use Aluminum Tape (Duct Tape) for this purpose. Works like a charm. Without the mod in place there is ample Bass but it may be a tad light for TRUE Bassheads or those who prefer a more exaggerated low end. One Great point here is the insanely good control that this Bass voicing exhibits, with or without modification. It is Tight, Clear and Concise and extends fairly deep, no matter what you throw at it even Pipe Organ music and EDM.
 
Mids: The mids are clear and right where they should be. Zero Bass bleed over. I would say they are neutral in their voicing, Goldilocks Mids. Just right, and maybe just a tiny bit towards the recessed side (very shallow V). In fact the entire IEM strikes me as fairly well balanced, moreso with the Bass mod applied.
 
Treble: Treble is forward verging on bright, but it lends huge detail and an Airy (almost open-backed) quality to the sound as a whole. It can get harsh on some recordings but Tip selection can get this under control fairly easily. Those who are VERY Treble sensitive may find the Moni a little too bright.
 
 Comparisons:
 
Oh boy. There may be some unhappy campers here, but I can’t compare this to the IEM that this is apparently an upgrade to due to forum restrictions….  So I will try something else that is similar.
 
So I came up with a REAL heavy hitter: The Musicmaker TK13 one of my personally favorite IEMs.
 
Moni One vs TK13:
The TK 13 have more Bass and extension and their sound is bigger (fuller). They are smoother and more of a relaxed listen. But THAT aside: the Moni can simply walk circles around the TK13 with their control, detail, separation, clarity and meanwhile do this all with a larger, wider, and deeper soundstage.
 
 
Conclusion:
Plain and simple: the Moni One has a practically indestructible build quality, and fairly well balanced very refined sound.  With the Bass mod it becomes somewhat more balanced and nears Bass Head approval. The Moni One simply is one of the best bangs for the Money IEMs I have heard in a while. You OWE it to yourself to jump in the driver’s seat and give these a spin.

http://www.lendmeurears.com/alpha-delta-d2m/
 
 
 
 
Preamble:
I was contacted by LendmeUrEars on May 26^th and invited to give my impressions of their new Alpha/Delta IEMs, designed to be inexpensive sport earphones that are water/ sweat resistant and perform quite a bit above their price level.
 
They most certainly do.
 
 
Disclaimer: I am a hobbyist only. I am NOT affiliated with any sellers or manufacturers for items that may be used in my review, nor at this time am I provided with any samples for endorsement or reviews. I purchase all of my own gear. I do However, post links to the particular individual seller from whom I have made my purchase of the item under review. These reviews reflect my personal opinions of the performance and general information about the item, and should not be used as a basis for any purchase. As I am sensitive to higher frequencies, your impressions may also vary from my own. I will try to offer comparisons as long as I have something similar both in price and construction to compare. If however at any time I am provided a sample for review, I will disclose this fact immediately on an additional disclaimer.
Please also note an absence of graphs unless they are included in the Seller's links. Although they are a great tool for determining what kind of EQ or other characteristics a particular IEM or Headphone should have,  alas all too often my own experience upon listening with my ears, tells me something different. Sometimes radically so. I may be correct I might not be, sound quality is VERY subjective at best. Therefore I will leave the scientific data, analysis and comparisons to more qualified and experienced reviewers.
 
ADDITIONAL DISCLAIMER: I have received these earphones as a sample in return for my un-biased review from LendmeUrears.  As the review is now concluded I have given them to a co-worker whose IEMs had met an untimely death. He very much likes them.
 
 
 
 
Here They are:

 
 
 
Nice utilitarian box with Info:

 
 
 
Here's whats inside:

 
 
 
Close Up:

 
 
 
Nice selection of tips. I preferred the Red-Cores:

 
 
 
The Alpha/Delta D2M in all it's glory:

 
 
 
Molded Plug compatible with mobile devices:

 
 
 
Combo "Y" Splitter, Mic, and Chin Slider:

 
 
 
 
Specifications:  They are available using the link to the seller(s) posted at the top of the page
 
 
 
 
Construction: 
 
Black Matte Plastic body, Kidney bean shaped? ear molded, over Ear design. A nice touch here is the actual Right standoff for the Cable is red for easy L/R identification. Inside is a 10 mm Dynamic Driver. From the Standoffs down are what appear to be Teflon coated cables that merge into a combination “Y” splitter Microphone with chin slider, that continues down a main cable that is slightly larger diameter to a Plastic “L” shaped plug with the same articulation as the Body Standoffs. The Mic/”Y” is constructed out of the same Black Matte Plastic as the Body. The whole presentation is one of utility, economy and efficiency. On the Standoff end of the cables are a thin clear plastic Tube designed to make the upper cable behave like memory wire. The nozzle length like many of these over-ears could be a tad longer for deeper insertion/ seal.
.
 
 
Source Details: 
 
For this particular review I used my Rockboxed  XDuoo X3 (very much improved sound quality) both amped and un-amped through a Fiio E12 Mont Blanc portable amp and a Schiit Audio Vali headphone amp. Line out from source to both amps. My Files are all at Least 320kbps to 96khz high resolution files. I used this source in all comparisons. Note that there were no appreciable differences noted in sound quality using the 2 different amp sources, However,  In THIS case there was a slight additional warmth added to the overall SQ with the Tube driven Vali amp.
 
 
 
Source Material:
 
The following is a list of songs that I used in this review. Some I use all the time, some less frequently. They all contain some type of frequency, Detail, or EQ that make them suitable for reference.
 
 
 
Christina Novelli -- Concrete Angel (Long Version)
Robert Plant --- Far Post
Molly Bancroft – Silence (Short version)
Ai Takekawa – Beyond the Moon (Short Version)
Vivaldi – Four Seasons (Spring and Summer)
John Bryson --- Let the Pipes play (full pipe organ album 1^st Cut)
SOAK --- Immigrant Song
 
 
 
General Sound Quality:
 
The Alpha/Delta have obviously been designed to appeal to mass consumers. They offer a smooth, bassy tuning with relatively neutral mids and sparkly Treble that lacks annoying peaks or sibilance or any harshness. I would say they have a fair depth and width to the soundstage with a surprising amount of Air. Nice placement, space and decent resolution. I think quite good for an IEM at this pricepoint. The bassy presentation also helps mask external noise in outdoor use. I can’t comment on the Microphone as I don’t use this option with a portable DAP.


 
 
Bass:
 
The bass is a little loose, but just slightly, however, it is fast and doesn’t mud up like many consumer EQ’d IEMs tend to do. There is a Mid Bass extension/emphasis that tends to cloud the lower mids on some Bass-heavy source material.  Good sub extension and with burn in gained some additional control. Although there is an emphasis on lows,  I like it. Quite a bit in fact.
.
 
 
Mids:
 
The Mids aren’t the most forward but they are quite well presented and present honest vocals with good detail. They are smooth and quite full and warm but sometimes can be masked by the mid/ upper bass on some music tracks.
 
 
Treble:
 
Highs are nicely extended but stop with a nice rolloff  before they can become harsh, peaky piercing or sibilant. They have a nice sense of Air and detail. Really quite nice for the price and maintain just enough sparkle to maintain a real nice overall presentation.
 
 
 
 
Comparisons:  
 
I really don’t have anything single driver/ over-ear configuration in this price range other than the less expensive KZ ATE   Needless to say the Alpha/Deltas significantly outclass and outperform them in a myriad of ways.
 
 
 
Conclusion:
 
At around $30.00 USD I think the Alpha/Delta have a real good sports IEM going on here. Nice all around performer. With Good build Quality that won’t break the Bank if you should damage them in a sports activity. They are quite good for just listening and will make a great IEM for beginners or even seasoned “Audiphiles”.
In fact I would be more worried about the Damage from that last Rep of those Skullcrushers at the Gym, than hurting these Gems….
 
 
Thanx Teo for the opportunity to review these. Nice Product

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/2016-New-Original-TFZ-SERIES-1-Dual-Chamber-In-Ear-Earphone-Hi-fi-headphones-Custom-In/32653196494.html?spm=2114.01020208.3.76.HQlrel&ws_ab_test=searchweb201556_0,searchweb201602_3_10037_10033_507_10032_10020_10017_10021_10022_10009_10008_9999_10018_10019_101,searchweb201603_6&btsid=fba77afc-a6df-4288-865a-d3020f1b2d48
 
 
 
Preamble:
I was taken by surprise when these showed up at my Door un-announced. Apparently I was standing there holding a Delta test pair of the TFZ Series One for review. I vaguely  remember a mention of this in passing conversation, now that I come to think of it.
 
 
 
Disclaimer: I am a hobbyist only. I am NOT affiliated with any sellers or manufacturers for items that may be used in my review, nor at this time am I provided with any samples for endorsement or reviews. I purchase all of my own gear. I do However, post links to the particular individual seller from whom I have made my purchase of the item under review. These reviews reflect my personal opinions of the performance and general information about the item, and should not be used as a basis for any purchase. As I am sensitive to higher frequencies, your impressions may also vary from my own. I will try to offer comparisons as long as I have something similar both in price and construction to compare. If however at any time I am provided a sample for review, I will disclose this fact immediately on an additional disclaimer.
Please also note an absence of graphs unless they are included in the Seller's links. Although they are a great tool for determining what kind of EQ or other characteristics a particular IEM or Headphone should have,  alas all too often my own experience upon listening with my ears, tells me something different. Sometimes radically so. I may be correct I might not be, sound quality is VERY subjective at best. Therefore I will leave the scientific data, analysis and comparisons to more qualified and experienced reviewers.
 
ADDITIONAL DISCLAIMER:  I was provided a Pre-production “Delta” Pair in Exchange for my Input and Review by Easy Earhones
 
 
 
 
Here is what came in the Box:

 
 
 
Earhooks, Shirtclip, 1 pair of Dual Flange Tips, One red Core Hybrid tips and 3 sizes Generic Black Rubber tips.

 
 
 
 
I almost forgot the Carrying Pouch that Bears the TFZ LOGO which is absent from the Earphone Faceplate:

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
Nicely Done "Y" with slider and Plug:

 
 
 
Look: No Brand Name

 
 
 
 
This is how I knew what it was:

 
 
 
The Only Markings on the body:

 
 
 
Specifications:  They are available using the link to the seller(s) posted at the top of the page
 
 
 
Construction: 
 
 
Typical Plastic molded to fit ear kidney bean shaped in Plain Black, no markings on Face. Nicely done rubber standoffs which are angled to provide easy fit for over ear wear. The cables are thin-ish but sturdy Teflon-coated wire. They travel down to an oversized “Y” splitter with Metal accent Slider. I’m assuming this design is intentional to provide some extra weight when wearing these over-ear without the provided earhooks, which should work as the cable is quite supple. The cable then travels down to a 3.5 Gold plated Plug with an oversized Body of matching Metal/ Black finish with the Y splitter. Rather nicely done and without any markings this particular pair looks to be quite “Stealthy”.  I have no Idea what size the single Dynamic driver is, only that it is BIG and apparently has some type of Dual Chamber configuration internally. Yes and FINALLY someone made a nozzle length that will provide deep enough insertion for a Really good tight Seal. Kudos to the designer.
 
 
 
Source Details:  For this particular review I used my Rockboxed  XDuoo X3 (very much improved sound quality) both amped and un-amped through a Fiio E12 Mont Blanc portable amp and a Schiit Audio Vali headphone amp. Line out from source to both amps. My Files are all at Least 320kbps to 96khz high resolution files. I used this source in all comparisons. Note that there were no appreciable differences noted in sound quality using the 2 different amp sources.
 
 
 
Source Material:
The following is a list of songs that I used in this review. Some I use all the time, some less frequently. They all contain some type of frequency, Detail, or EQ that make them suitable for reference.
 
Christina Novelli -- Concrete Angel (Long Version)
Johnny Lang --- Red Light
Robert Plant --- Far Post
Molly Bancroft – Silence (Short version)
Ai Takekawa – Beyond the Moon (Long Version)
Vivaldi – Four Seasons (Spring and Summer)
John Bryson --- Let the Pipes play (full pipe organ album 1^st Cut)
Keb Mo’ --- Everything I need
T REX --- Electric Warrior ( the ENTIRE freakin’ Album!!!)
 
 
 
 
General Sound Quality:
 The TFZ Series One is a Strange animal. Probably the first over-ear of this type that I feel is geared towards Bassheads and Bass-Heavy Genre’ music such as Rock, EDM, and Trance. Absolutely “L” shaped EQ it lacks some definition in The Mids, it’s better on male Vocals than Female and electric guitar work is quite good. There is Treble but it takes a backseat to the Bass and Lower mids. Surprisingly the Soundstage is quite large and as these are quite efficient IEMs they are quite Loud at a given volume setting in comparison to similar IEMs. You simply aren’t going to get the Placement and layering with these as some other more articulate 'phones can provide, BUT:  All in All I can ROCK out with these, they are quite fun. This Pretty much Explains why I would use something as Bass-Heavy as Electric Warrior By T Rex, doesn’t it? If you got Bass you might as well exploit it.
 
 
Bass:
Bass is several Kilometers north of neutral and has a slight amount of Bloat evident on some material but is still punchy, and forward with some bleed over into the lower Mids.
 
 
Mids:
The midrange is fairly thick favoring male vocals and guitar work over higher mids. It does take a backseat to the Bass but not SO FAR that it is obscured.
 
 
Treble:
The Highs aren’t harsh, they are rolled off. The treble may lack for some, but it's not recessed out totally it’s like the midrange it takes a backseat to the Bass. Due to this it gives the impression of lacking detail and darkness. But on the plus side it’s non-fatiguing from the treble if you don’t die from Low Frequency exposure.
 
 
 
Comparisons:
Well what I’m going to compare it to is the 2016 Easy UEs Custom. This should be simple enough. The TFZ is everything the UEs Custom is not. It’s bass Heavy and while the UEs custom has great Bass and extension, it pales to the Low end on these. The UEs Mids are simply stunning particularly on Female Vocals whereas the TFZ Mids are thicker and more recessed. The UEs because of it’s crossover network has a very unique and sneaky Treble which is quite forward when it’s in the material. The TFZ’s highs are rolled off before they could even begin to get spikey, peaky or sibilant. The soundstages although similar in width, the detail and layering, depth, and instrument placement EASILY goes to the more articulate UEs.
 
 
 
HOWEVER, despite the TFZ's shortcomings, I like both of these earphones. Again Kind of Polar opposites. I like the more refined Nature of the UES but I Love the Thumping A** Bass of the TFZ just as much. It makes me smile and remember my Rock and Roll days.
 
 
 
Conclusion:
Hey they aren’t “Audiophile”. So What? If you are a Rock and roller, Metalhead, EDM or Trancer I think you need to try these Bad Boys….
 
They just might make you Croon beneath the Be-Bop Moon.
 
 
 
Thank You so much Easy for letting me Participate in this Delta Test.

http://www.shozy-hk.com/zero-earphone/
 
 
 
Preamble: I was honored to receive an invitation to join in the Delta test of the pre-production Shozy Zero around April 16^th. I received the unit in a plastic baggie along with several tips and was pleasantly surprised how Nice they sounded right OOTB. The review following will give my personal impressions of the Shozy Zero IEM and hopefully do them the justice that they deserve. As this is now the 13th Review of these, At the Risk of becoming redundant, I didn't waste time photographing the Zeros again as most reading this review probably have a Fair Idea of what they look like.
 
So with no further Ado:
 
 
 
Disclaimer: I am a hobbyist only. I am NOT affiliated with any sellers or manufacturers for items that may be used in my review, nor at this time am I provided with any samples for endorsement or reviews. I purchase all of my own gear. I do However, post links to the particular individual seller from whom I have made my purchase of the item under review. These reviews reflect my personal opinions of the performance and general information about the item, and should not be used as a basis for any purchase. As I am sensitive to higher frequencies, your impressions may also vary from my own. I will try to offer comparisons as long as I have something similar both in price and construction to compare. If however at any time I am provided a sample for review, I will disclose this fact immediately on an additional disclaimer.
Please also note an absence of graphs unless they are included in the Seller's links. Although they are a great tool for determining what kind of EQ or other characteristics a particular IEM or Headphone should have,  alas all too often my own experience upon listening with my ears, tells me something different. Sometimes radically so. I may be correct I might not be, sound quality is VERY subjective at best. Therefore I will leave the scientific data, analysis and comparisons to more qualified and experienced reviewers.
 
ADDITIONAL DISCLAIMER:  I was approached By SHOZY to take Part in a Delta Test of this new product and was provided a Pre-production Pair in Exchange for my Input and Review.
 
 
Specifications:  They are available using the link to the seller(s) posted at the top of the page
 
 
Construction: 
 
Cylindrical wooden body made of rosewood that terminates in a Black Plastic Nozzle with metal wax Screen inside. Also note that the rims of the Nozzles are “Notched” out to reduce overemphasis of  Bass. The cable is the typical 4 wire multicolored wire used on many Asian Products with a Somewhat “sticky” feel to it that I find is diminished with a little Baby Powder applied to it. The cable standoffs bear the only clue as to Right and Left orientation and are not easy to read. The Cables join at a wooden “Y” sans chin slider emblazoned with “Zero” then continue on to a wooden Bodied 3.5 gold plated Plug with “Shozy” inscribed on it in the Same script as the “Y” splitter. All in All Quite a Handsome product and somewhat smaller in stature than I was expecting. I opted for Wide Bore Medium Auvio eartips.
 
 
Source Details:  For this particular review I used my Rockboxed  XDuoo X3 (very much improved sound quality) both amped and un-amped through a Fiio E12 Mont Blanc portable amp and a Schiit Audio Vali headphone amp. Line out from source to both amps. My Files are all at Least 320kbps to 96khz high resolution files. I used this source in all comparisons. Note that there were no appreciable differences noted in sound quality using the 2 different amp sources.
 
 
Source Material:
The following is a list of songs that I used in this review. Some I use all the time, some less frequently. They all contain some type of frequency, Detail, or EQ that make them suitable for reference.
Note: for Burn In purposes to 200 Hours time, as suggested by the manufacturer, I used a Jlabs Test Track and Vivaldi and Mahler Symphonies on Repeat, Interspersing with some Fairly Bass Heavy Trance music about every 30 Hours or so.
 
 
 
Christina Novelli -- Concrete Angel (Long and Short Versions)
John Mayer – Home Life
Robert Plant --- Far Post
Molly Bancroft – Silence (Short version)
Ai Takekawa – Beyond the Moon (Long Version)
Vivaldi – Four Seasons (Spring and Summer)
John Bryson --- Let the Pipes play (full pipe organ album 1^st Cut)
Dire Straits --- Sultans of Swing
Eric Clapton --- For Your Love/ No Alibis
 
 
 
General Sound Quality:
 The Shozy Zero is articulate and fairly neutral tending towards the warm side. They're a full bodied sounding IEM, and have bass even though fairly well balanced. The bass isn’t the tightest but it’s there and in just the right amount, and fairly fast to boot.  The sound is on the smoother side, with a polite if somewhat rolled off treble, a mid-range with quite a nice amount of detail that manages to stay in front of the Bass.  The treble is very good as far as tone, and I find it quite listenable.  Detail retrieval and Placement are exceptional as I can easily locate separate instruments.  It has a somewhat narrow soundstage, but quite a bit of height and depth, this gives the impression of being pretty big sounding nonetheless, the layering is quite good too. Clarity and micro details are above average for an IEM with this warm of a signature.
 
 
Bass:
Bass is very slightly north of neutral and has a slight amount of Bloat evident on some Bass-Heavy material but is still very nice. I find the bass to be quite punchy, and forward without really intruding into the Mids. It does lack in comparison to some IEMs Sub-Bass extension.
 
 
Mids:
The midrange is really quite sweet. The overall balance between the Bass and Midrange is such that it is always in front of the Bass, showing more presence. As noted, I find them towards the light side giving more articulation to female vocals as opposed to male, some would describe this as Airyness. I just don’t think they are as thick in the lower "Male vocal" mid frequency range.
 
 
Treble:
The Highs aren’t harsh, in fact by most accounts they are rolled off, yet they show some sparkle without becoming fatiguing in any way.  The treble may lack for some, but it's not recessed out. I feel the Zero has somewhat of an “L” shape to its EQ. The highs on the Zero don’t really stand out but I find them smooth with enough extension to be enjoyable but not intrusive in any way. This gives the Zero a high listenability factor for me personally
 
 
 
 
Comparisons:
 
Well, I WAS going to go through a Step by Step LZ-Z03A v.s. the SHOZY, but it would suffice to say they are the Antithesis of Each other. Pretty much equals in detail retrieval, clarity, soundstage placement and layering They are Polar opposites in the Warm VS Bright of their individual signatures. The LZ is leaning on the enhanced Mids/ Bright side with maybe a TAD more bass extension and the SHOZY is just where I like it, Warm and Comfy.
 
 
 
For me Personally, it’s the Shozy Zero by a country mile, Hands Down.
 
 
 
Conclusion:
 
For Build, comfort and Sound versus Value The Shozy ZERO is a winner and pretty much a no Brainer for those looking for Great sound at an attractive price.
 
 
 
 
Thank You so much Shozy for letting me Participate in this Delta Test.

http://www.amazon.com/LZ-A3-Definition-Headphones-Earphones/dp/B01CERWT4Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459953504&sr=8-1&keywords=LZA3
 
Intro / Preamble: These are the Long-Awaited? (relative term v.s. the speed at which Chinese manufacturers are developing and releasing new IEMS to the market recently),  Successors to the LZA2. Same Driver configuration and I’m assuming some sonic tweaking, in re-designed housings with a new detachable cable. Please bear with me until the conclusion as by the outset of comparisons you may feel that I’m under-whelmed. NOTHING could be further from the Truth. I purchased these on Amazon from Easy Earphones store. It is also now available on the Aliexpress store as well.  However I believe there is a pricing error on the Ali link, it should read $130 USD.
 
 
This is again another Brilliant creation by the audio genius of Lao Zhong
 
 
 
Disclaimer: I am a hobbyist only. I am NOT affiliated with any sellers or manufacturers for items that may be used in my review, nor at this time am I provided with any samples for endorsement or reviews. I purchase all of my own gear. I do However, post links to the particular individual seller from whom I have made my purchase of the item under review. These reviews reflect my personal opinions of the performance and general information about the item, and should not be used as a basis for any purchase. As I am sensitive to higher frequencies, your impressions may also vary from my own. I will try to offer comparisons as long as I have something similar both in price and construction to compare. If however at any time I am provided a sample for review, I will disclose this fact immediately on an additional disclaimer.
Please also note an absence of graphs unless they are included in the Seller's links. Although they are a great tool for determining what kind of EQ or other characteristics a particular IEM or Headphone should have,  alas all too often my own experience upon listening with my ears, tells me something different. Sometimes radically so. I may be correct I might not be, sound quality is VERY subjective at best. Therefore I will leave the scientific data, analysis and comparisons to more qualified and experienced reviewers.
 
 
 
 
Here is the Picture of Mine that have been "Adjusted" for Down-Cable wearing:

 
 
 
Here is the Box Plain, Simple, Nice.

 
 
The Presentation:

 
 
 

 
 
Whats hidden under the Foam Insert:

 
 
This is what you Get. Lots of goodies:

 
 
 
Close up of the assorted Tips

 
 
 
Specifications:  They are available using the link to the seller(s) posted at the top of the page
 
 
Construction: 
Gold matte finish on all metal, (possibly an Aluminum-White metal alloy), basically crescent-shaped with squared edges on the body with well marked L/R designations on upper outside bout of the body. Contains a DD + 2 BA drivers. Detachable cables with secure clicking MMCX connectors. NOTE: This review is being done with the Stock 2^nd Gen. Cables as there were connector problems with the original production cables. The “new” cable has the improved Gold matte/black rubber longer MMCX connectors and appears to be a high quality clear plastic sheathed but nicely braided Silver Plated Copper (oxygen free I’m assuming) wire that is nicely supple. Matching matte finished “Y” connector with Slider, that terminates in a Substantial L shaped Rubber sheathed  3.5 mm plug. The over-all build quality suggests durability.
The LZA3 although designed to be worn over-ear, can ALSO be worn in a more pleasing, (to this writer), down-cabled configuration. To maintain proper orientation of the curvature of the IEM body in relation to the Ear, simply swap the Left for Right bodies on the cable. They will have the wrong channel markings however, if your memory is good this won’t be a problem. As mine isn’t, I simply marked them with colored dots, (See Pics), to avoid confusion and easier dim-light identification. Also they are shipped with the same yellow-core hybrid tips as their sibling LZ-Z03A. These do neither IEM any good whatsoever. The Included Generic Black Rubber tips are MUCH better, IMO. I also tried the Auvio Large and didn’t really notice any difference OOTB.
 
 
 Source Details:  For this particular review I used my newly Rockboxed XDuoo X3 (very much improved sound quality) both amped and unamped through a Fiio E12 Mont Blanc portable amp and a Schiit Audio Vali headphone amp. Line out from source to both amps. My Files are all at Least 320kbps to 96khz high resolution files. I used this source in all comparisons. Note that there were no appreciable differences noted in sound quality using the 2 different amp sources.
 
 
 Source Material:
The following is a list of songs that I used in this review. Some I use all the time, some less frequently. They all contain some type of frequency, Detail, or EQ that make them suitable for reference.
 
Dire Straits -- Sultans of Swing
Christina Novelli -- Concrete Angel (Both Versions)
John Mayer – Clarity / Home Life
Robert Plant – Far Post / Come into my Life
Vivaldi – Four Seasons (Spring)
John Bryson --- Let the Pipes play (full pipe organ album 1^st Cut)
Jonny Lang – Get what you give / Red Light
Ai Takekawa --- Beyond the Moon (Both long and short versions)
John Waite and Alison Krauss Duet --- (I ain’t) Missing You
Robert Cray --- Strong Persuader (various cuts off full album)
Mahogany Rush --- Land of a 1000 Nights
 
 
 
Sound Details: 
These are a non-fatiguing listen, with great Sub bass extension and a somewhat elevated Bass presence that is well controlled and doesn’t intrude on the low Mids.  The bass is fast and can deliver great bass growl in the lower spectrum. I find the Mids the best point with a superb transition between the high Mids into the Treble, which is somewhat rolled off, JUST PERFECTLY. Although some are saying this is an “L” Shaped signature I’d like to depart and actually call this a very flattened Modified “W” with the Long Leg on the bass extension, shorter on Treble with the Lows transitioning into an ever so forward midrange that gives Vocals a nice ‘Open” quality, and keeps them just far enough in front of the Bass to remain clear and concise.  I find the Soundstage very well layered and instrument Placement as superb as their little brother the LZ-Z03A. It has Great dimensions to it depth, width, and height and can truly involve the Listener.
 
 
Bass:
It’s full, extended, fast, and not bloated. Present most times but not overbearing. For some it may be considered a little light, but I have no problem as it extends deep when it needs to.
 
 
Mids: Simply Beautiful. Truly this IEM’s strong suite. Natural, transparent with enough “Air” to make them sound open. Particularly in Female vocals. Male vocals are also quite rich. The low mids are never masked or choked out by the Low frequencies and he High mids blend into the Treble presentation seamlessly.
 
Highs: PERFECT for my ears, (as I’ve mentioned I’m quite treble sensitive), It rolls off very similarly to the Musicmaker TK12 just short of the “Dreaded” Treble harshness or spikes I find present in many Asian-manufacture IEMs. No Javelins through the eardrums here. The Treble is well defined, detailed, and resolution is spot on. Enough Highs to make soundstage placement quite apparent, without fatigue. In Fact the LZA3 are some of the most fatigue –free IEMs I have Heard to date.
 
 
 
Comparisons:  This is where it is going to get tricky. I’m bringing in my 2 most heavy Hitters for comparisons, which in the case of the LZA3 SPEAKS VOLUMES. Keep in mind, These are My OPINIONS only, and as the other 2 IEMs are quite Fully burnt-in and the LZA3 only has roughly 35 Hours on it, my opinion could change dramatically and in that case I will update THIS REVIEW.
 
OK. The 2 other Review Phones are Both Musicmaker brand, The Shockwave III and the TK12. Honestly I consider the LZ/Shockwave comparison “apples to oranges” due to the Driver compliments and the Basic EQ of either IEM. The TK12 is really a much more direct comparison.
 
So HOW do they Fare?  I think I will keep this to myself. Sorry…..
 
(just kidding)
 
 
PLEASE BEAR WITH ME TO MY CONCLUSION HERE. (no matter if or how you agree/ disagree).
 
LZA3 v.s. Shockwave III:
As I previously stated, IMO this is Apple to Oranges, Sound Quality-Wise there IS no comparison. The Shockwave is clearly a More Audiophile Oriented presentation with Greater Clarity, Sub Bass extension, Three dimensional soundstage and overall HIFidelity sound that becomes really apparent on Hi Res music downloads from HD Tracks and similar websites.  It is in a next level Class.
 
 
UNFORTUNATELY ……
 
 
OMG, WHAT’S HE GONNA SAY NOW???
 
 
Along with this superb analytical nature comes a Price. I Find the Shockwave to be somewhat too Bright, not painfully Bright mind you, but enough that there is some listener Fatigue involved, and TRUTHFULLY they are Brighter than I personally prefer and quite similar to the Bette 10mm overall Treble presentation.
LZA3 to SHOCKWAVE III?  Simply put:  For long listening sessions I PREFER the LZA3 with it’s slightly less impressive, but still stellar Sound Quality. IF I’m going to find a particular artifact within a song or brand-new first listen downloaded recording, I’ll reach for the Shockwaves first.
 
 
 
LZA3 v.s. TK12:
 This is a more Direct Comparison, DD + 2BA per earphone.  The TK12 IS SIMPLY MASSIVE sounding. Big Brash, a little uncouth, yet still keeps a certain amount of resolution with Rolled off Treble that ALSO becomes a very listenable long-term Quality. The TK12 is a Tad darker with a Giant Bass that is always present but fairly well controlled, with a great soundstage and involvement in the Music. The LZA3 Is more Refined with possibly a Deeper extension on Sub-Bass than the TK12 but nowhere near as present or bass saturated. The LZA3 actually could be called a Mid – Centric IEM as the Mids are Just Beautiful but really aren’t pushed THAT far forward. Resolution, Detail, and soundstage placement and layering are a Tad better than the TK12.
 
 
 
HONEST OPINION? I like BOTH EQUALLY as I seem to fall into the Semi-Basshead/ High Resolution type listener. I CAN’T decide which is better. I lean towards the TK12 but ONLY because at this point I have Far more experience with it and it’s pluses and caveats.
 
 
 
 
THERE IS NO WAY YOU CAN LOSE WITH PURCHASING ANY OR EVEN ALL OF THESE IEMS. THIS IS A FACT YOU CAN TAKE TO THE BANK.
 
 
 
 
Conclusions: This IEM is Superb. It equally ranks up there with the Best in my Collection, given time my affection for it may exponentially increase. I would buy this again, in fact.
Job Well done Lao Zhong. VERY WELL DONE.
Thank You Easy for Your recommendation Months? Ago.
 
 
WELL, SHOULD YOU BUY THEM?
 
 
 
 
STONE COLD STEVE WOULD SAY:   “HELL YEAH!!!!”

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/2016-New-MrZ-Tomahawk-Music-Maker-III-5-Units-4-BA-With-DD-In-Ear-Earphone/32609950666.html
 
These are the Brainchild of Audio Genius Mr. Z, Linan Zhong and My Purchase was made from Easy Earphones on Ali Express.
 
 
Disclaimer: I am a hobbyist only. I am NOT affiliated with any sellers or manufacturers for items that may be used in my review, nor am I provided with any samples for endorsement or reviews. I purchase all of my own gear. These reviews reflect my personal opinions and should not be used as a basis for purchase. As I am sensitive to higher frequencies, your impressions may vary from my own. I will try to offer comparisons as long as I have something similar both in price and construction to compare. If however at any time I am provided a sample for review I will disclose this fact immediately on a disclaimer. Please also note an absence of graphs unless they are included in the Seller's links. Although they are a great tool for determining what kind of EQ or other characteristics a particular IEM or Headphone should have, all too often my own experience upon listening with my ears, tells me something different. Sometimes radically so. Therefore I will leave the scientific data, analysis and comparisons to more qualified and experienced reviewers.
 
 
 
 
Some Preamble:
 
 
 A fellow Head-fier Skullophile and I had both previously ordered another Musicmaker earphone, the TK12 also known as the HCKA2. We were so impressed with the MusicMaker TK12 that we both purchased, (rather quickly I might add), this one, sight unseen, ears unheard. Apparently the Bigger sibling of the two. Noting that this IEM, (or incarnations of), have been available on the Asian Market for some time, many of the reviews on TaoBao after google translation, indicate that these 5 Driver IEMs reach peak performance around 350 Hours of burn in.
 
As this review is being done with <100 hours it may be subject to detail changes....
 
 
 
 
Here they are in all their Majesty: KEGGERS                                                                             

 
 
 
They need some Power

 
 
 
Here is what you get

 
 
 

 
 
 
Unlike the TK12 these have ports

 
Looking Down the Bore of some Non-Stock Auvio Eartips. Wide Bores Highly recommended on these IEMs

 
 
ALL Musicmaker Earphones from Mr. Z have this marking

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
Specifications:  They are available using the link to the seller posted at the top of the page
 
 
 
Construction: 
 
 
These are a Hybrid of 1 dynamic driver plus 4 Balanced Armatures, with a special nozzle configuration with internal divisions. Unlike many multi Driver IEMs being offered these have an internal 3 Way Electronic Crossover network in each earpiece. They appear to be made out of Polished Stainless Steel supposedly with some type of Titanium alloy, with a grommet like standoff / access hole for the Cabling in the Body, which the cable itself appears to be of a higher quality silver coated stranding type.  There is a Bass port on the rear of the body. The cable Y's a nicely finished and detailed splitter and junctions at that point to the main cable which terminates in a straight plug finished the same as the splitter In a brushed Aluminum with Thumb grips. The plug end also has a fortified Neoprene bendy connection with the Cable. Very Nice touch. Even with the Small standoffs from the body the whole presentation is one of Durability and excellent construction. BTW these IEMs bear the Musicmaker Logo on the rear of the Housings, as do all of the Mr. Z products. Included in this marking is a small L or R designating Left from Right.
 
 
 
Source Details:  For this particular review I used my XDuoo X3 both amped and unamped through a Fiio E12 Mont Blanc portable amp and a Schiit Audio Vali headphone amp. Line out from source to both amps. My Files are all at Least 320kbps to 96khz high resolution files. I used this source in all comparisons. Noting no real apparent differences using the different amp sources.
 
 
 
Source Material:
The following is a list of songs that I used in this review. Some I use all the time, some less frequently. They all contain some type of frequency, Detail, or EQ that make them suitable for reference.
 
 
Ai Takekawa-- Beyond the Moon
Emma Lock-- Never Fear (extended Version)
Christina Novelli-- Concrete Angel (short version)
SOAK--- Immigrant Song
Vivaldi--- SPRING (Four seasons)
J.G. Bryson-- Let the Pipes Play (Full pipe organ album 1st cut)
John Mayer-- Clarity/ Home Life
Steve Winwood --- Valerie/ Arc of a Diver
 
I also added the following songs for their sonic attributes:
 
Christina Novelli -- Concrete Angel (extended Version)
Jonny Lang-- Wander this World The FULL ALBUM
Ayreon – 01011001 Album (1^st cut)
Robert Plant – Far Post
Albert King -- Remastered Born Under a Bad Sign
 
 
 
 
 
General Sound Quality:
 
 
ARE YOU EXPERIENCED?
 
 
A famous Musician once asked this question. NOW, I can truly say: “I am.” 
 
This is the feeling that you encounter when you start listening to the cohesiveness, resolution and Soundstage that envelops the listener. Another Head-fier commented: it’s “…like a perfect sphere around my head…”
 
 
Truly with The Shockwave III, you don’t merely listen to the Music, You Experience it. I can recall a similar experience in the listening Room of a Local High End Hi-Fi shop, Alma’s on Woodward Ave. in Royal Oak Michigan. I “auditioned” some next-level equipment that I could NEVER afford. I believe it was a pair of Mark Levinson Mono Block Amps through 4 (front/Rear) B&W Nautilus 800 speakers with vinyl on a VPI high end Turntable. The album was Weather Report’s “Mysterious Traveler.” At the time I thought to myself “Can it get any better than this?”
 
Up until now this was the epitome of my Audio Experience. I had the same thought and experienced this same thing Last night on a 7 hour listening Session with the Shockwave III.
 
These are the First IEMs that I could truly call End-Game in my personal experience. I was consumed from the first listen. The resolution, detail, depth, bass quality and extension of other frequencies are simply superb. The sense of positioning and detail and shear expanse of the Soundstage is enormous. In fact, I agree, it’s 360 Degree enveloping.
 
Also to be noted:  These IEM's are not as particularly forgiving as their sibling TK12 is. The better the Quality of the Source and Material the better the Shockwave III will sound.
 
 
Bass:
 
It’s truly special. Unobtrusive unless it’s needed then it is Fast, Punchy, controlled and extends down into the very Sub labyrinths of the Earth’s own bowels. It Growls like a True Subwoofer. I have a 1000 Watt B&W Home theater Sub that has nothing on this except for the thump on the Chest you get with an In-room Sub reaching hellish depths. If Mr. Z’s designs get any better, his next Flagship may truly do it.
 
 
Mids:
 
I find the Mids, very pleasant to listen to but they could be a bit more forward. Recessed? Well maybe a little but they work perfectly with the other frequencies. the overall presentation is one of BALANCE. Plus the Bass is so controlled it doesn’t intrude or mask the Mids. I notice the Male vocals tend to be more pronounced or forward than the female maybe due to a little mid thickness.
 
 
Treble:
 
Highs are well extended with no harshness or peaks. I personally have noticed no Sibilance or any artificial timbre to the Treble. Not even with Soak’s “IMMIGRANT SONG” at substantial volume. If there ever was an artificial or sibilant sounding vocal, this is about as good of an example as there is. Even on the Altered version of Jame Blakes “LIMIT TO YOUR LOVE” his voice comes through as it was recorded, although it’s been obviously altered from the Original version, with no perceivable artificialness other than what was intended.
 
Soundstage:
 
I simply CAN’T improve on Tamal’s Description:
 
“Seriously, the sound stage is impressive, like a perfect sphere around my head Holographic soundstage and imaging”
 
I absolutely agree. It’s huge and 3D.  (It reminds me of a much more extended Bette 10mm type 3D imaging on the soundstage).
It’s simply an EXPERIENCE.
 
 
 
Comparisons:
 
 
Firstly, you owe it to yourself to read the reviews already done on The TK12 (HCK A2) to get an idea of it’s sound.
The only earphone in my current stable that even remotely has a Chance against this Titan is it’s own smaller brother: the Musicmaker TK12. I’m not going into a long drawn out frequency by frequency comparison here. Instead let me compare them THIS way to let you get a FEEL for their differences;
 
 
 
TK12:
 
 
It’s the Fur Trapper up in -40 degree Quebec who just came in for his yearly spring supply run and to sell his furs, raise some hell, get some food, maybe a hot bath, a Bottle and a wench for the night after clearing out the bar in a Brawl. He wakes up in the morning with a serious hangover, pays off his debts for the previous night’s damages, takes his supplies and heads back up into the Frontier until next spring. Hard Man, Hard Life, Bigger than life, living a Coarse life.....
 
                                                               
 
                                                                                                                               V.S.
 
 
SHOCKWAVE III
 
 
It’s the Older Scottish Rancher, (probably a retired statesman or parliamentary representative), whom has just spent the Day out in the Highland Winter mending fences and stockades. He has finally got all of his live stock in, fed and boarded for the night’s worst. He is exhausted. After eating he is relaxing By the Huge Stone Fireplace, in a huge overstuffed chair with legs up on the footstool, with a single malt Scotch and perhaps a Meerschaum pipe loaded with Captain Black tobacco. He is reflecting on the day’s events and feeling a deep personal satisfaction as he prepares to read the Political pages in the London Times. At his feet is his favorite Collie dog curled up and enjoying the warmth of the fire and his beloved wife nodding off to sleep in an adjacent Chair.
Hard Man, Hard Life, Bigger than life, and TOTALLY REFINED…
 
 
 
 
Conclusion:
 
 
Simply the FINEST sonic presentation I have personally heard from an IEM to Date. EASILY worth the price of admission, and then some. Yes, I realize there are many out there yet that I haven’t heard as yet, that is another price of admission to this hobby. (Addiction)
 
 
But for Now, I am Very Content. In Fact, all I really feel the need for is a Single malt and a Fireplace and I’m all set. To hell with the London Times....
 
 
 
 
SO, HAVE YOU EVER BEEN EXPERIENCED?
 
 
 
 
WELL..... I HAVE.

Also Known as the HCK A2
 
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/2015-New-HCK-A2-Dynamically-And-BA-3-Unit-Headphone-HIFI-Fever-In-Ear-Earphone-As/32574853976.html
 
Introduction: While Browsing Aliexpress I checked in with one of my most trusted sellers Teresa Liu at her store: S. Hckexin. I was surprised to see these earphones here Advertised as the HCK A2 as I had found them a few weeks Earlier on Tao Bao as Musicmaker by Mr. Z  TK12. Regardless, I purchased them from Teresa as Fast as my credit card could process, especially looking at the specs, and Mr. Z's reputation as a designer. (The Graph for Frequency response is insane). Not that I put a whole lot of credence in Graphs, (my ears tell me other things that graphs don't), but it sure makes it interesting.
 
Disclaimer: I am a hobbyist only.I am NOT affiliated with any sellers or manufacturers for items that may be used in my review, nor am I provided with any samples for endorsement or reviews. I purchase all of my own gear. These reviews reflect my personal opinions and should not be used as a basis for purchase. As I am sensitive to higher frequencies, your impressions may vary from my own. I will try to offer comparisons as long as I have something similar both in price and construction to compare. If however at any time I am provided a sample for review I will disclose this fact immediately on a disclaimer.
 
As you can see they arrived without packaging, What you see is what you get, plus quite a few extra Pairs of silicone eartips I believe S,M,L in white and Pink and a medium pair of Smoke:


I'm seeing a case that looks familiar somehow....
 



a couple solo pics of them one light one with flash, against the comforter on our bed. BTW: it's 60 degrees outside in Detroit
 


As You can see I wasted no time Rolling tips and liking my trusted Auvios which apparently I should have cleaned before I took this shot.
 


A shot of the nicely done plug, Y splitter and Higher Grade silver plated cable.
 
Specifications:  They are available using the link to the seller posted at the top of the page
 
Construction:  These are a Hybrid of 1 dynamic driver plus 2 Balanced Armatures. They appear to be made out of Enameled or powder coated Aluminum, with a grommet like standoff / access hole for the Cabling in the Body, which the cable itself appears to be of a higher quality silver coated stranding type. ODDLY enough there is no apparent porting of any kind on the body or nozzle area. The cable Y's a nicely finished and detailed splitter and junctions at that point to the main cable which terminates in a straight plug finished the same as the splitter. Even with the Small standoffs from the body the whole presentation is one of Durability and excellent construction. BTW these IEMs bear the Musicmaker Logo on the rear of the Housings.
 
Source Details:  For this particular review I used my Fiio X3 both amped and unamped through a Fiio E12 Mont Blanc portable amp and a Schiit Audio Vali headphone amp. Line out from source to both amps. My Files are all at Least 320kbps to 96khz high resolution files. I used this source in all comparisons.
 
Source Material:
 
The following is a list of songs that I used in this review. some I use all the time, some less frequently. They all contain some type of frequency, Detail, or EQ that make them suitable for reference.
 
Ai Takekawa-- Beyond the Moon (original version)
Emma Lock-- Never Fear (extended Version)
Dire Straits-- Sultans of swing
Eric Clapton-- For Your Love
Justine Suissa --- On A good Day
SOAK--- Immigrant Song
John Mayer-- Slow dancing in a burning room
Vivaldi--- SPRING (Four seasons)
J.G. Bryson-- Let the Pipes Play (Full pipe organ album 1st cut)
Johnny Lang -- Give me up / Red light
Lee Ritenour-- Six string theory (Full album 1st cut)
Keb Mo'-- Everything I need
 
Sound Details:
 
What can I say? It was love at initial listen. They have the OVERALL dark side that I prefer in an EQ, BUT are anything but dark. They are a tad coarser sounding than the highly refined sound of the DQSM. The Bass is huge. I Mean HUGE. It renders the whole SQ of these as being Massive. Giving Credit where Credit is Due I think Sub bass on the DQSM is more controlled and maybe a Skitch more extended into the nether regions. It's a close call.  On some material you think it's the HCK then the next it's the DQSM with better extension. The Mids are RIGHT There. Simply Perfect, as is the Treble. The treble BTW is quite extended but never dry or harsh, spikey or sibilant. the graph shows these as near Flat, certainly reduced Bass and Treble. Like I said once before, I don't rely on graphs. my ears tell me differently about the HCK A2
 
Personally these IEMs are hand's-down my favorite. On a side note: (Simply because I'm nuts), I read on several reviews about the 5 driver musicmaker model needing 350 Hours of burn in to reach full potential. That being said I've now returned these HCK A2 back to the Burner to cook for another 100 hours or so...
 
I wouldn't want them at LESS than full potential, after all....
 
Bass: Just massive, It's there when it's present in the source material. Controlled and tight, slightly lacking the definition of the DQSM, but never bloated or bleeding into other frequencies.
 
Mids: Female or Male Vocals, Guitar work, micro details? This is about as good as it Gets.
 
Treble: I like it. As they burned in the Treble frequencies came out a little. For My ears PERFECT. They stopped just short of Bright, and Have super detail without being etched.
 
General Sound Quality: Superb. Btw: did I mention IT'S MASSIVE?
 
 
Comparisons:
 
Unfortunately the only other phone that I have in this price Range and Performance level is the DQSM. So Go with what You Know:
 
HCK A2 v.s. DQSM  I find these two polar opposites in most respects. The DQSM IS BRIGHT (Maybe just a tad too much for my own personal taste), and extremely Refined. Similar to a CIEM quality of refinement. The HCK A2 is coarser, darker and appeals to my baser instincts. I'd say they are equals in detail and micro detail, the soundstage on the HCK is larger. Both 'phones are a cut above the Pack, with the DQSM being thinner and the HCK A2 as being well....MASSIVE.
 
As a side note I really didn't find any appreciable difference between the two IEMs in EQ or Sound Quality switching the E12 or Vali as the amp source.
 
You really should make it a point to acquire BOTH of these IEMs for your collection. Sort of a Yin / Yang thing.
 
 
Conclusion: A well made earphone that simply rocketed to my favorite. It Punches WAY ABOVE its price point. I LOVE this thing.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/New-Original-AudioSense-AS20-Metal-Dynamic-HIFI-Monitor-Headphones-DIY-In-Ear-Earphones-Headset/32471606825.html?spm=2114.30010308.3.2.wJf8Vp&ws_ab_test=searchweb201556_9,searchweb201644_5_505_506_503_504_301_502_10014_10001_10002_10016_10005_10006_10003_10004_401_9999,searchweb201560_2,searchweb1451318400_-1,searchweb1451318411_6452&btsid=16fc1aff-95bc-4668-89d3-cbed56fbef78
 
 
 
Introduction: I stumbled across this little Gem as I was browsing through some of the available earphones on Aliexpress.com The specs and pictures intrigued me, as well as this being a Sub $40 (USD) Hybrid. So on impulse I purchased it from the seller, Easy Earphones, listed above.
 
DISCLAIMER: I am a hobbyist only. I am not affiliated with any sellers or manufacturers that may be listed in my reviews, nor am I provided with any samples for endorsements or reviews. I purchase all of my own gear. These reviews are just MY personal opinions and as I am sensitive to Highs, Your results may vary. I will offer product comparisons as long as I have something similar to compare.
 
Here are some pictures, as you can see they are packaged in a generic functional rather overly large cardboard presentation box.


 







They come with an embossed round case, earhooks, shirtclip, 4 pairs Eartips S,M,L Black silicone and a single pair of installed Red Core hybrids.
 
Specifications are available using the link posted at the top of the Page.
 
Construction: Appear to be made of spun/ turned aluminum, with nice solid standoffs that appear to have a positioning Tab? incorporated. Assuming from the provided earhooks they can be worn downcabled (my preference) or over-ear. Y connect wires are of teflon jacketed design VERY durable contrary to visual impressions and also have static and microphonic resistant properties. Very nice Y/ chin slider also out of aluminum Going into a Cloth or Kevlar covering on the main cable, (I love this, and also Cloth Braiding such as Trinity uses on Their IEMs), terminating in a straight plug with spun aluminum finish as well. All In All I can't fault it.
 
 
Source Details: For this Review I exclusively used XDuoo X3 coupled to a Fiio E12 Mont Blanc on high gain mode. There is NO EQ on the XDuoo player. Files are all 320kbps MP3, Flac 48Khz or High Resolution 96khz? downloads from HD TRACKS. Note this source combination was also used in the Comparisons.
 
SOURCE MATERIAL:
 
This is a list of songs that I used in this review. Many I use all the time, some less frequently. All the songs have some quality or nuance/ detail that work well as reference material.
 
No particular order:
 
Spirit-- Prelude/ Nothing to Hide/ Natures Way
Ai Takekawa-- Beyond the Moon Original version
Christina Novelli-- Concrete Angel
John Mayer-- Clarity/ Only Heart
Mick Jagger-- Dancing in the Starlight
SOAK-- Immigrant Song
Ronnie Wood-- I don't think So
Vivaldi-- SPRING (Four Seasons)
John G. Bryson-- Let the Pipes Play (Full Pipe Organ Album 1st song)
Alter Bridge-- Find the Real
Keb Mo'-- Everything I need
Jonny Lang--- Get What You Give/ Blew up the House
 
Sound Details:
Well now, this is where it gets Tricky. I bought these as an impulse buy along with several other more expensive 'phones. I had an Initial listen and in my impatience wrote them off as a decent generic sounding pair of the new plethora of budget Chinese hybrids, in order to get at "the good stuff".  So I put off actually Burning them in in favor of others that I was more anxious to get to. FAST FORWARD about 3 weeks. Finally got to "Breaking In" the AS20 and then she was ready for an extended listen.
 
Well Now..... At First listen I was thinking: "Hey these aren't too bad". Bass was unusually controlled, very nice detail, great Mids on vocals and a nicely extended but not boosted High End. The Word COMPETENT comes to mind. A little better sounding than most off the generic hybrids I've heard so far. Well before I knew it, 3 Hours had passed. These AS20 are actually quite a decent little IEM, especially at a Sub. $40 Price Tag.
 
BUT: Something was nagging at me about the Bass. It was just WAY too controlled--tight and fairly well extended. That was when the Little Red Guy jumped up on my shoulder and said: "DO IT".
So I did it.
I Flicked the 6dB Bass boost, cranked up the Volume to most likely an unsafe listening Volume and slapped om ALTER BRIDGE.
 
I Got Chills.
These little Sheep IEMs ARE NOT SHEEP AT ALL. In fact they probably just left Grandma's house after they ate her. SO what's a Guy to Do? I tried to reduce these to a distorted mass, which actually is quite easy to do With 1Watt of power and Boosted Bass; FOR MOST IEMS. The AS20's weren't having any of it. I even went to PIPE ORGAN Music. Nothing, Just LOUD Clear concise Sound quality.
 
Yeah, they are pretty DAMN Competent.
 
Bass: The First thing that stood out for me was the unusual control of the Bass frequencies, Punchy, Fast, never masking or Bleeding, just WAY too good for a middle of the Road IEM
 
Mids; Very nice, crystal clear and slightly out front but not overextended, Just where I like them
 
Highs: Also very nice. some may call these rounded or rolled off, but I think they do what they are supposed to do without becoming overbearing, spikey, or sibilant in any way. Just enough to Have good separation, and details. Sound Stage is quite wide on the AS20 as well.
 
COMPARISONS:
 
In this range from $20 to $40  there are a few Hybrids with many more showing up it seems almost weekly.
 
AS20 V.S. Xiaomi Hybrid  Both of these most would consider on the darker side of EQing. Bass depth goes to the Xiaomi that truly has some of the deeper bass I've heard in in a Budget Hybrid. BASS quality and control however easily goes to the AS20, as well as mids. Since the Xiaomi's weak point IS in treble extension, (or complete lack thereof), it's obvious which phone I prefer. The Soundstage on the AS20 Is Quite Good. larger in width than the Xiaomi for certain.
 
AS20 V.S. 1MORE Hybrid. Now we Have a little different EQ. I would call the 1MORE Brighter and the AS20 dark by comparison. Surprisingly I find both of these about equal in detail and maybe a Tad better micro detail in the AS20. The 1MORE's Bass is Forward and Quite nice but lacking the extension of the AS20. The AS20 BASS is well,  UNUSUALLY good for a Budget IEM. Both 'phones have really good Mids Maybe Giving the Nod to the 1More, as I think the Mids are pushed to stay ahead of the Forward bass. Treble is slightly more extended on the 1MORE but has less cohesiveness with the rest of the frequencies than the AS20's Treble which is simply, FOR ME, very Listenable
 
CONCLUSION:  A well Made, very Listenable "Goldilocks" budget Hybrid. That Does actually stand out from the generic plethora being offered.
 
WARNING: I'm NOT RESPONSIBLE for Your well being, mental health, or immortal soul if You Amp, Boost or Crank the VOLUME on this IEM.
 
Grandma Found out the hard way.....

No Hype, No B.S., No descriptions.
 
SIMPLY: Buy a Pair, Listen to your best tracks. Then Get your Best 'phone out and listen to the Same Tracks.
 
YOU DECIDE.
 
I now have my "Desert Island" Earphones. Best extended 6+ hour Listening session I've ever had
 
TWIN

Since receiving this pair they have rapidly become my Goto's I really can't think of anything Bad to say about them. I can see where some could find them a little bright (silibant ?) depending on tip selection. Fortunately I'm not bothered by Treble frequencies. Easily inserted into ear, Great cable with cloth sheathing on lower portion. I find these outstanding at most any price point particularly for their +- apprx. $100 USD cost. Not the best isolation but I have no problem with it.

Purchased these From an Authorized seller in the UK as a Demo but in as new / Mint condition. They actually had 10 Pair, in hindsight I probably should have purchased a 2nd. After a Disappointing trial of Vsonic GR07 Classics, I decided to pop the Extra $$$$ and take a chance with the IE8s. I won't be looking back any time soon. You can use a lot of adjectives, in a nutshell they sound great and are actually on par with My Senn HD650s sonically. The first thing I did was Try all the supplied Tips finding that the Large regular tip is the best of the OEM lot for my ears. I will go into a little more detail in a few for better tips. Then I burned these in having a Listen at 50, 100, 200, 250 and 300 Hours. I for one definitely can hear a vast difference between New and Burned in. Relaxed would be what I would call the Transformation, and the Mid-Bass hump which never really bothered me anyways has smoothed out. I also Purchased a set of Balanced N8 OCCC silver Plated copper upgrade cables from HIFI-Acoustic Audio. Fantastic workmanship on these cables. Highly Recommended.
 
Now for eartips: I have Tried Comply Foams, Generic Silicone Hybrids from Ebay, Genuine Sony Hybrids, Phonak, Monster Gels, JVC, both Clear and Black assortments from Meelec, Auvio hybrids and of course the supplied OEM. My conclusion is BY A WIDE MARGIN: The Auvio Hybrids available at Radio Shack in Large size. They just make the sound BLOOM, at least to my ears.
 
Sorry for being Late to the Party, Might Have to try out the IE80s.
 
TWIN