Reviews by paulwasabii
The Tronsmart Bang SE is another member of Tronsmart's Bang family of outdoor party speakers. I would call it the smaller brother to the Bang Mini on power but makes up for it on eye catching LED show.
Here we can see the Bang SE and its box.
Next to the patriarch of the family, the Bang on the right, SE on the left.
In person, Bang SE is more portable, smaller with a convenient carry strap that attaches to hooks on the handle. This is also the first look at the LED light effects on the speakers, those are the two full range drivers on the front. Each of the Bang series has a different speaker configuration so do look into the one that meets your needs.
Tronsmart categorizes the Bang family by party size of course, so you can see the SE is for a small gathering of 6.
Side view of both SE and Bang are similar, both feature an LED ring.
Taking a closer look at the front control panel
We can see from left to right, Power, Sound Pulse EQ, Vol -, Play/Pause, Vol +, Stereo Pairing, and Lighting Modes
On the backside ports:
Reset button, USB A which can be used to charge devices, USB C for charging, AUX In, and TF card slot.
Sound: The Bang SE hits the balance of portability and sound quality. Tronsmart calls it bright sound and I wouldn't call it bright, but perhaps relative to the bassier brothers in the Bang family. The SE is part bringing sound to your space, part adding a visual pop to your party which it does better than its bigger brothers which also have LED effects, but none as eye catching as the dual lit cones of SE.
Having used other members of the family, I do miss the app support. Instead of using the app, the Sound Pulse EQ button will cycle EQ options.
While missing the app support, the handy carry strap is a nice addition.
Bluetooth pairing and range is as good as other Bang devices. Outdoors in an open space, Bluetooth range is typically very good and no different here.
Conclusion:
Bang SE is another member of Tronsmart's outdoor party speaker family for more intimate gatherings, think beach blanket or around a firepit. With the smaller party comes higher portability and that balance is where SE fits, along with an eye catching light show.
Here we can see the Bang SE and its box.
Next to the patriarch of the family, the Bang on the right, SE on the left.
In person, Bang SE is more portable, smaller with a convenient carry strap that attaches to hooks on the handle. This is also the first look at the LED light effects on the speakers, those are the two full range drivers on the front. Each of the Bang series has a different speaker configuration so do look into the one that meets your needs.
Side view of both SE and Bang are similar, both feature an LED ring.
Taking a closer look at the front control panel
We can see from left to right, Power, Sound Pulse EQ, Vol -, Play/Pause, Vol +, Stereo Pairing, and Lighting Modes
On the backside ports:
Reset button, USB A which can be used to charge devices, USB C for charging, AUX In, and TF card slot.
Sound: The Bang SE hits the balance of portability and sound quality. Tronsmart calls it bright sound and I wouldn't call it bright, but perhaps relative to the bassier brothers in the Bang family. The SE is part bringing sound to your space, part adding a visual pop to your party which it does better than its bigger brothers which also have LED effects, but none as eye catching as the dual lit cones of SE.
Having used other members of the family, I do miss the app support. Instead of using the app, the Sound Pulse EQ button will cycle EQ options.
While missing the app support, the handy carry strap is a nice addition.
Bluetooth pairing and range is as good as other Bang devices. Outdoors in an open space, Bluetooth range is typically very good and no different here.
Conclusion:
Bang SE is another member of Tronsmart's outdoor party speaker family for more intimate gatherings, think beach blanket or around a firepit. With the smaller party comes higher portability and that balance is where SE fits, along with an eye catching light show.
Tronsmart T7
I have a few Tronsmart speakers now, and the closest I have would be the Trip. That is a step up in convenience and size, but a step down on everything else. T7 is a bit bigger but definitely an upgrade over Trip.
Specs:
Wireless Version: 5.3
Wireless Range: Up to 18m/59ft (Open Area)
Input Power: 5V/2A, via Type-C port
Output: 30W
Microphone: Built-in
IP Rating: IPX7
Play Time (Varied by Volume Level & Audio Content): Up to 12 Hours(Varied by Light Display)
Charging Time: 3 Hours
Frequency Range: 60Hz – 20kHz
Playing Modes: Wireless,TF Card
Voice Assistant: Supports Siri, Google Assistant, Cortana
Other Features: Stereo Pairing, App Control, Vibrant LED Modes, 360° Surround Sound
Product Dimension: 216 x φ78mm/ 8.5 x 3.07inch
Product Weight: 870g/1.91bs
Package Dimension: 255 x 125 x 93mm/9.84 x 4.92 x 3.66inch
Package Weight:1.23kg/2.71lbs
Sound and Design
Where Trip and T7 diverge, Trip had 2 full rage speakers, T7 has a beefier config, 2 side firing tweeters and 1 woofer on the bottom. Trip is fine for a room, T7 has much better projection of sound and sense of low end bass at closer range. Where you can really notice it on T7, play with EQ modes and the Soundpulse is very vivid and will carry a bigger distance than you assume without maxing the volume.
Volume Wheel
Tronsmart likes their LED lighting modes and T7 is not different. Nice ring at the base of the volume wheel which is a cool feature compared to just putting +/- on the keypad as they did with Trip. Indoors, it takes on a more Alexa vibe.
Controls:
Standard controls, Power, Back, Play, Next and another Tronsmart feature found on their other products, Stereo Pairing. Under the rubberized cover, USB-C for power and TF slot for local music. Tronsmart calls T7 and outdoor speaker, but it works well indoors and is the right size for room-filling sound, so I would have liked to see an Aux In as well.
App Support
T7 does have Tronsmart App Support for firmware, EQ modes, and what I found super useful, powering off the T7. Do try the Default which I thought was more balanced for quieter, indoors perhaps. Soundpulse amps up the treble a bit for a more vivid sound, more of a party sound.
Wireless Range
Another small area that makes a difference if you have tried to use a Bluetooth speaker outdoors, the range can make a difference between fun and frustration. I am not a leave my phone by the speaker type, so I am typically walking around with the phone in my pocket. T7 passes the test for walking around and not dropping signal. The specs say 60ft in an open area which is great and was happy to not hear any dropouts.
Conclusion:
Tronsmart T7 came out a bit ago, but still holds up as a Bluetooth speaker for yardwork or on the counter in your kitchen for get-togethers. The side-firing tweeters will fill your outdoor spaces and the bottom-firing woofer will work great for some thump in your kitchen.
Thank you to Tronsmart for sending the T7, find it here:
https://www.tronsmart.com/products/tronsmart-t7-portable-outdoor-speaker
I have a few Tronsmart speakers now, and the closest I have would be the Trip. That is a step up in convenience and size, but a step down on everything else. T7 is a bit bigger but definitely an upgrade over Trip.
Specs:
Wireless Version: 5.3
Wireless Range: Up to 18m/59ft (Open Area)
Input Power: 5V/2A, via Type-C port
Output: 30W
Microphone: Built-in
IP Rating: IPX7
Play Time (Varied by Volume Level & Audio Content): Up to 12 Hours(Varied by Light Display)
Charging Time: 3 Hours
Frequency Range: 60Hz – 20kHz
Playing Modes: Wireless,TF Card
Voice Assistant: Supports Siri, Google Assistant, Cortana
Other Features: Stereo Pairing, App Control, Vibrant LED Modes, 360° Surround Sound
Product Dimension: 216 x φ78mm/ 8.5 x 3.07inch
Product Weight: 870g/1.91bs
Package Dimension: 255 x 125 x 93mm/9.84 x 4.92 x 3.66inch
Package Weight:1.23kg/2.71lbs
Sound and Design
Where Trip and T7 diverge, Trip had 2 full rage speakers, T7 has a beefier config, 2 side firing tweeters and 1 woofer on the bottom. Trip is fine for a room, T7 has much better projection of sound and sense of low end bass at closer range. Where you can really notice it on T7, play with EQ modes and the Soundpulse is very vivid and will carry a bigger distance than you assume without maxing the volume.
Volume Wheel
Tronsmart likes their LED lighting modes and T7 is not different. Nice ring at the base of the volume wheel which is a cool feature compared to just putting +/- on the keypad as they did with Trip. Indoors, it takes on a more Alexa vibe.
Controls:
Standard controls, Power, Back, Play, Next and another Tronsmart feature found on their other products, Stereo Pairing. Under the rubberized cover, USB-C for power and TF slot for local music. Tronsmart calls T7 and outdoor speaker, but it works well indoors and is the right size for room-filling sound, so I would have liked to see an Aux In as well.
App Support
T7 does have Tronsmart App Support for firmware, EQ modes, and what I found super useful, powering off the T7. Do try the Default which I thought was more balanced for quieter, indoors perhaps. Soundpulse amps up the treble a bit for a more vivid sound, more of a party sound.
Wireless Range
Another small area that makes a difference if you have tried to use a Bluetooth speaker outdoors, the range can make a difference between fun and frustration. I am not a leave my phone by the speaker type, so I am typically walking around with the phone in my pocket. T7 passes the test for walking around and not dropping signal. The specs say 60ft in an open area which is great and was happy to not hear any dropouts.
Conclusion:
Tronsmart T7 came out a bit ago, but still holds up as a Bluetooth speaker for yardwork or on the counter in your kitchen for get-togethers. The side-firing tweeters will fill your outdoor spaces and the bottom-firing woofer will work great for some thump in your kitchen.
Thank you to Tronsmart for sending the T7, find it here:
https://www.tronsmart.com/products/tronsmart-t7-portable-outdoor-speaker
Tronsmart Bang Max
I am going to start here for those of you familiar with the previous Bang model
The Bang Max box is small indication of how much larger the Max is over the previous model. No handle on top of the Max box, you have two cut outs on the sides for carrying with both hands.
Some of this is perspective, but yes, the Bang Max is much larger than Bang. Max on top, regular Bang lower,
From the front:
The Bang looks like a Mini compared to the Max. For those into numbers:
Bang:
Product Dimension361 x 183.4 x 150.3 mm/ 14.2 x 7.2 x 5.9inch
Product Weight3.08kg/6.79lbs
Bang Max:
Product Dimension470 x 199 x 260mm/18.5 x 7.83 x 10.24inch
Product Weight5.98kg/13.18 lbs
Not only did the weight nearly double but Max is also almost double the price of Bang, $109usd vs $229usd
How do you decide between Bang and Bang Max? Bigger is better? The answer is on the Bang Max box, the reference to outdoors. If your primary use is indoors, and I have used Bang indoors as a party speaker over the years, it is fine for that, Larger rooms will of course start to strain the sound, but for the most part, the original is going to be fine for any indoor use.
Where Bang Max is different is when you need to provide sound to your neighborhood. It is startingly loud and powerful in an open room like my garage. If you are listening to pop music with some bass, there will be no need to EQ more bass. If it is too much, move the speaker outdoors where it belongs. It is IPX6 Waterproof in case it rains or you are washing the car as I do, so its good for that level of splashing. The numbers say output power is 130W on Bang Max vs 60W on Bang.
I am not going to tear mine apart but here is the speaker configuration and they describe it as, dual tweeters, mid-tweeters & woofers.
Top Panel Max:
Bang:
Bang Max is standard buttons from the left, power, BT pairing, Vol -, Play, Vol + and the next one is stereo pairing if you happen to have two Bang Max and want to use them as a stereo pair, discrete left and right units.
Next is the SoundPulseEQ button which is going to cycle the EQ modes which can also be controlled in the Tronsmart App. Looks like this:
Next is the TrueConn button and this is for linking up to 100 speakers.
Lastly the Echo button which switches among the Echo modes, default, boosted, and extra boost.
Similar to Bang, you get a lightshow on the side only where Bang had a strip in front as well
Around back, some new additions as well
Bang has a USB A, Aux In, and TF-Card and USB-C power. Bang Max has those, but no USB-C in the back, but a new power adapter and DC-In socket. Tronsmart added two new inputs which lean towards using it as an outdoor amp for your side hustle as a musician on the corner. One mic input with adjustable gain and another which can be used by your partner's mic or an instrument such as a guitar. Cool features that again make more sense when entertaining outdoors in a large space vs the indoors Bang feature set.
Sound and performance, I didn't have an issue. Its a bassy sound, can be controlled with EQ, but as far as what I want outdoors, it needed have have a lot of bass in order to not sound thin. Bang Max will find itself in your yard during Fall cleanups, neighbor firepits, or anytime you need music for a gathering of 20 or 30 of your friends.
Spec Dump from Tronsmart's page:
Wireless Version5.3
Wireless Range18m/59ft (open area)
Input Power100~240V~50/60Hz
Output130W
IP RatingIPX6
Play Time (Varied by Volume Level & Audio Content)LED Off: Up to 24 Hours(On a 50% Volume)
Karaoke: Up to 10 Hours(On a 60% Volume)
Charging Time5 Hours
Frequency Range50Hz – 20kHz
Maximum SPL110dB
Playing ModesWirelessAux-in, Micro SD/TF Card, U-Disk
Other Features:
Sync Audio across 100+ Speakers
Stereo Pairing
Various Lighting Modes
Supports Wired Mic & Guitar Input(Wired Mic Not Included)
Custom EQ & Lights via APP
Dual Audio Modes
Built-in Powerbank
Product Dimension470 x 199 x 260mm/18.5 x 7.83 x 10.24inch
Product Weight5.98kg/13.18 lbs
Package Dimension517 x 248 x 303 mm/20.35 x 9.76 x 11.93inch
Package Weight7kg/15.43lbs
Many thanks to Tronsmart for sending the Bang Max, you can find it here:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CBP6RZ1Z
I am going to start here for those of you familiar with the previous Bang model
The Bang Max box is small indication of how much larger the Max is over the previous model. No handle on top of the Max box, you have two cut outs on the sides for carrying with both hands.
Some of this is perspective, but yes, the Bang Max is much larger than Bang. Max on top, regular Bang lower,
From the front:
The Bang looks like a Mini compared to the Max. For those into numbers:
Bang:
Product Dimension361 x 183.4 x 150.3 mm/ 14.2 x 7.2 x 5.9inch
Product Weight3.08kg/6.79lbs
Bang Max:
Product Dimension470 x 199 x 260mm/18.5 x 7.83 x 10.24inch
Product Weight5.98kg/13.18 lbs
Not only did the weight nearly double but Max is also almost double the price of Bang, $109usd vs $229usd
How do you decide between Bang and Bang Max? Bigger is better? The answer is on the Bang Max box, the reference to outdoors. If your primary use is indoors, and I have used Bang indoors as a party speaker over the years, it is fine for that, Larger rooms will of course start to strain the sound, but for the most part, the original is going to be fine for any indoor use.
Where Bang Max is different is when you need to provide sound to your neighborhood. It is startingly loud and powerful in an open room like my garage. If you are listening to pop music with some bass, there will be no need to EQ more bass. If it is too much, move the speaker outdoors where it belongs. It is IPX6 Waterproof in case it rains or you are washing the car as I do, so its good for that level of splashing. The numbers say output power is 130W on Bang Max vs 60W on Bang.
I am not going to tear mine apart but here is the speaker configuration and they describe it as, dual tweeters, mid-tweeters & woofers.
Top Panel Max:
Bang:
Bang Max is standard buttons from the left, power, BT pairing, Vol -, Play, Vol + and the next one is stereo pairing if you happen to have two Bang Max and want to use them as a stereo pair, discrete left and right units.
Next is the SoundPulseEQ button which is going to cycle the EQ modes which can also be controlled in the Tronsmart App. Looks like this:
Next is the TrueConn button and this is for linking up to 100 speakers.
Lastly the Echo button which switches among the Echo modes, default, boosted, and extra boost.
Similar to Bang, you get a lightshow on the side only where Bang had a strip in front as well
Around back, some new additions as well
Bang has a USB A, Aux In, and TF-Card and USB-C power. Bang Max has those, but no USB-C in the back, but a new power adapter and DC-In socket. Tronsmart added two new inputs which lean towards using it as an outdoor amp for your side hustle as a musician on the corner. One mic input with adjustable gain and another which can be used by your partner's mic or an instrument such as a guitar. Cool features that again make more sense when entertaining outdoors in a large space vs the indoors Bang feature set.
Sound and performance, I didn't have an issue. Its a bassy sound, can be controlled with EQ, but as far as what I want outdoors, it needed have have a lot of bass in order to not sound thin. Bang Max will find itself in your yard during Fall cleanups, neighbor firepits, or anytime you need music for a gathering of 20 or 30 of your friends.
Spec Dump from Tronsmart's page:
Wireless Version5.3
Wireless Range18m/59ft (open area)
Input Power100~240V~50/60Hz
Output130W
IP RatingIPX6
Play Time (Varied by Volume Level & Audio Content)LED Off: Up to 24 Hours(On a 50% Volume)
Karaoke: Up to 10 Hours(On a 60% Volume)
Charging Time5 Hours
Frequency Range50Hz – 20kHz
Maximum SPL110dB
Playing ModesWirelessAux-in, Micro SD/TF Card, U-Disk
Other Features:
Sync Audio across 100+ Speakers
Stereo Pairing
Various Lighting Modes
Supports Wired Mic & Guitar Input(Wired Mic Not Included)
Custom EQ & Lights via APP
Dual Audio Modes
Built-in Powerbank
Product Dimension470 x 199 x 260mm/18.5 x 7.83 x 10.24inch
Product Weight5.98kg/13.18 lbs
Package Dimension517 x 248 x 303 mm/20.35 x 9.76 x 11.93inch
Package Weight7kg/15.43lbs
Many thanks to Tronsmart for sending the Bang Max, you can find it here:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CBP6RZ1Z
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Tronsmart Onyx Pure Hybrid Dual Driver Headphones
Tronsmart Onyx Pure is the latest TWS from Tronsmart and the unique feature on Pure is the hybrid dual driver configuration. Not common at any price for TWS, but under $20usd is even less common.
Many thanks to Tronsmart for sending the Onyx Pure to me and you can find more information here:
https://www.tronsmart.com/products/tronsmart-onyx-pure-hybrid-dual-driver-headphones
Specs from Tronsmart:
| Bluetooth Version | 5.3 Codec: SBC |
| Bluetooth Range | Up to 10 meters / 33 feet |
| Number of Microphones | 2 |
| IP Rating | IPX5 |
| Play Time (Varied by Volume Level & Audio Content) | Earbuds: 7 Hours on a Single Charge(50% Volume) With Charging Case: Up to 32 Hours of Playtime (50% Volume) |
| Charging Time | Earbuds: 1.5 Hours Charging Case: 2 Hours |
| Frequency Range | 20-20KHz |
| Driver Unit | Dynamic Driver + Balanced Armature |
| Voice Assistant | Supports Siri, Cortana, Google Assistant, etc |
| Other Features | Reset Switch 3 EQ Modes |
As you can see from the spec list, this is fairly typical for the price range and missing app support and higher quality codec support that is found in their upscale model Onyx Prime.
Case:
Slim plastic case but does feature the reset on the bottom which is one feature I do like. No need to break open the manual to figure out what touch combo is needed to reset, just hold the reset button in for a few seconds and ready to pair again.
Sound
As I noted earlier, the hybrid dual driver configuration is not common for TWS
I was expecting less coherence, possibly more shrill with a BA in that location, but Tronsmart did a good job avoiding the typical budget hybrid tuning problems. There are 3 EQ modes, but as usual, the Normal setting is the most balanced and the one I would continue to use. The 3 modes graph as:
No real surprise on connecting the EQ mode to the graph. Bass mode adds bass and reduces treble which Tronsmart has done before. Just increasing bass would be fine, no need to reduce treble which simply adds a muddiness to the sound. But for Pure mode, they got it right, just reduce bass and leave the treble mostly the same.
Generally, the sound is more like a bass-boosted neutral. There is a fun mid-bass bump but flattens out fast going into the mids and then stays relatively flat into the treble. Just adding some upper treble boost for fun again. The noticeable lack of pinna gain is an interesting choice and makes for a real relaxed treble. No big V here. The second interesting piece is how the DD and BA divide the signature. I don't know where the crossover is but probably well into mid or upper treble. High enough that it sounds like a single driver until some high frequency instruments. For $20usd, the sound quality is good and that signature will attract a few folks as it is not very common.
Overall, I had $20usd expectations and I think they executed well here delivering good sound quality at a very reasonable price. I would love AptX and app support in all TWS, but considering the price constraints, I think Tronsmart smartly paired back the costly extras and focused on the sound which is the right move.
Disclaimer: Thank you to Tronsmart for sending the Onyx Ace Pro to me for review. You can find more information here: https://www.tronsmart.com/products/tronsmart-onyx-ace-pro-true-wireless-earphones
Specs from Tronsmart:
| Color | Black, White |
| Type | Semi in-ear |
| Audio Codecs | aptX Adaptive, aptX, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 |
| Bluetooth Range | 10m/33ft (Open Area) |
| Number of Microphones | 4 |
| IP Rating | IPX5 |
| Play Time | Up to 6.5 Hours (Single Charge) Up to 27 Hours (with the Charging Case) |
| Charging Time | Earphones: About 1 Hour 30 Minutes Charging Case: About 2 Hours |
| Frequency Range | 20-20kHz |
| Voice Assistant | Supports Siri, Cortana, Google Assistant, etc |
| Product Dimension | Earphone: 39 x 16.5 x 16.8 mm / 1.54 x 0.65 x 0.66 inches Charging Case: 48 x 23 x 57.5 mm / 1.89 x 0.9 x 2.26 inches |
| Product Weight | Earphone: about 4 g / 0.008lbs Charging Case: about 37 g / 0.08lbs |
| Package Dimension | 120 x 88 x 40 mm/4.72 x 3.46 x 1.57inches |
| Package Weight | 420g/0.93lbs |
| Package Contents | 1 x Onyx Ace Pro True Wireless Earphones 1 x Type-C Charging Cable 1 x Warranty Card 1 x User Manual |
Since I am later in the review list, I'll skip the packaging and user guide pics as those have been covered well already and skip to the audio bits.
I will mention the reset button at the bottom of the case is one of the more innovative features at this price if you have ever been in the position of trying to figure out how to reset a TWS.
Sound and Relevant Factors:
First, I am a believer in the higher quality Bluetooth codecs such as aptX Adaptive and aptX supported here. My Pixel 6 Pro simply says the connection is AptX
At the $35usd price, there are some aptX sets, but not many as it does require licensing. I am also an Android user and this aptX implementation seems as good as others I have heard recently.
Second, the airpod-like bud design is great for casual all-day listening, but wouldn't be my first choice for a serious music session. This is your do-it-all grab-and-go set that is generally good at music, calls, games, movies, etc. It is a generalist in sound and will easily handle anything you might need to wirelessly on the go. For a more serious music session, I also have Tronsmart's Onyx Prime which is also aptX and really geared towards audio enthusiasts. Onyx Ace Pro is geared towards anyone looking for an affordable set to throw in your gym bag or backpack for a day out.
The airpod style fit is not my favorite as it does allow quite a bit of environmental noise. Again, as a grab-and-go set where you might need to hear transportation announcements or want to listen to vehicular traffic, this is perfect. If you are looking for an IEM-type of isolation, that does not happen here and it affects the sound signature.
The bass is good but is not going to go deep with this style of fit. This is a mid-centric signature that is perfect for general music listening, taking calls, or watching movies. The bass in a quiet environment is quite nice and will be a bit harder to fully hear in a noisier environment.
The mids are a bit forward as you would expect in a generalist TWS set. There is just enough warmth on the low end to counter a bit of a rise in the upper mid. Again, this is a bit of a fit issue, the looser the fit, the more of a chance the upper mids will lean thin. Very similar to an IEM without a proper fit, lose some bass and an apparent brighter sound. The same happens here but again, this works in your favor for calls as you are getting a nice clear vocal emphasis.
Treble is fine, upper mid/lower treble emphasis and polite continuing on through the upper. I think both the bass and upper treble are there to really support the mids. Just enough so nothing is missing.
Overall, Tronsmart has delivered an affordable airpod-style TWS that can really handle everything you might need to do on the go. Music, games, calls, movies are all handled well here helped out by Qualcomm's chip and codec.
Tronsmart Trip Waterproof Portable Speaker
Tronsmart Trip is a new affordable Bluetooth speaker designed as a very portable, on-the-go-sized speaker that can still deliver on sound quality. The Trip is really meant as a throw it in your bag on the way out speaker solution and does well fulfilling that role.
Specs from Tronsmart
| Model | Trip |
| Color | Black, Blue, Grey, Red |
| Audio Codecs | SBC |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.3 |
| Bluetooth Range | 18m/59ft (Open Area) |
| Input Power | 5V/800mA via Type-C port |
| Output Power | 10W RMS |
| Microphone | Built-in |
| IP Rating | IPX7 |
| Play Time | Up to 20 Hours (on a 50% volume) |
| Charging Time | 3 Hours |
| Frequency Range | 20Hz-20KHz |
| Playing Modes | Bluetooth, Aux-in |
| Other Features | Stereo Pairing, Vibrant Color Options |
| Product Dimension | 169.5 x 81 x 40.7mm/6.67 x 3.19 x 1.6inch |
| Product Weight | 328g/11.57oz |
| Package Dimension | 182 x 99 x 48mm/7.17 x 3.89 x 1.89inch |
| Package Weight | 450g/0.99lbs |
| Package Contents | 1 x Tronsmart Trip Portable Outdoor Speaker, 1 x 3.5mm Audio Cable, 1 x Type-C Charging Cable, 1 x Warranty Card, 1 x User Manual |
Size Compared to Banana
Controls
All of the controls are located on the top of the Trip as large raised buttons for ease of use and visibility.
Inputs
Along with Bluetooth SBC codec, there is also an Aux next to the USB-C port for charging.
Pocket or Carry-able
The Trip is quite small and fits easily in man-sized pockets but there is also a carry loop if that does not work for you.
Sound
For those who are not familiar Soundpulse, this is a set of capabilities Tronsmart implements to increase sound quality in their speaker products. The gist of the problem is the small enclosure which is prone to more distortion and not enough stereo separation. Soundpulse mainly addresses those two issues and what is most noticeable is the front projection of sound, more focused than your typical bluetooth speaker at this price. It definitely has that room-filling sound for such a tiny speaker. Also part of Soundpulse is the combination of two full-range speakers paired with dual passive radiators. Again one of those features not easily found in other speakers at this price is no surprise for anyone who follows Tronsmart's portfolio of audio products. As I also have the Tronsmart Bang, which is a level or three above the Trip in price and sound quality, but the Trip and its front projection of music without much distortion does feel like it shares some DNA with the big brother Bang. What is missing from the big brother, the app support and EQ settings. What is not missing from the Bang, the ability to pair another Trip for true wireless stereo. OK, the Bang can pair with 100 units, but two paired for stereo is more than appropriate for this price. The Trip is more of a balanced signature, not bass-heavy, tuned well within the bounds of the dual drivers to prevent unnecessary distortion and work well with most popular music genres.
Waterproof
I did not test it but Trip is IPX7 waterproof. That is "IPX7: Can be submerged up to 1 meter in water for 30 minutes"
Conclusion
Tronsmart Trip is another in their line of quality outdoor speakers, this time aimed at those looking for the ultimate in portability while still bringing the sound quality. In that context, I think Trip is not only appropriately named but delivers on the promise of delivering quality tunes on your next trip or just stepping out for a good time in the yard.
Intro: Bang is Tronsmart's latest smart Bluetooth speaker featuring 60W of power, tons of input options, and mobile app support. Tronsmart sent this review unit to me but you can find it here:
Bang!
Packaging:
Specs from Tronsmart:
| Model | Bang |
| Colors | Black |
| Power | 60W |
| Input | 5V/2A via Type-C Port |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 |
| Bluetooth Compatibility | A2DP/AVRCP/HFP/HSP |
| Audio Decodec | SBC |
| Transmission Distance | 18m/59ft |
| Water Resistant | IPX6 |
| Battery Capacity | 10800mAh |
| Play Time | LED On: Up to 8 Hours(on a 50% Volume) LED Off: Up to 15 Hours(on a 50% Volume) |
| Charging Time | 4.5 Hours |
| Frequency Range | 20Hz-20KHz |
| Dimension | 361*183.4*150.3 mm/ 14.2*7.2*5.9inch |
| Net Weight | 3.08kg/108.6oz |
| Package Contents | 1 x Tronsmart Bang, 1 x Warranty Card, 1 x User Manual, 1 x Type-C Cable, 1 x Aux Cable |
Inputs:
Obviously being a Bluetooth speaker, the primary source will be Bluetooth 5.0 using SBC codec. Sadly no other codecs are supported as far as I can tell. Pairing is simple using NFC if your phone supports it. Additionally, music can be put on TF card/USB drive or using an AUX cable.
Power: 10800mAh battery will play music for 15 hours or 8 hours using the LED lights. It is also possible to slow charge your phone using the USB port. The charge time is 4.5 hours.
Controls:
The row of buttons covers the basic functionality but there is also app support which handles the more advanced features starting with updating the firmware
as well as source selection, the Tuneconn linking functionality for connecting up to 100 Bang speakers, LED color theme, and remote power off.
Sound:
Generally, I was pleasantly surprised with the sound quality. Out of the box, it sounded a bit more neutral than party, but that is what the EQ settings are for in the mobile app. It is an outdoor party speaker that needs to deliver a large amount of sound without much distortion and I think it does that very well. The EQ settings will refine it and I did prefer the Sound Pulse setting for a bit more party than the default setting. The EQ settings are labeled quite accurately, Deep Bass = heavy bass, Vocal is just the vocal range, everything else is dipped down. I defintiely preferred a more balanced sound found in Default or Sound Pulse which is also the setting to use if you prefer your lights to flicker with the beat.
Conclusion: At $109usd, I think Tronsmart delivered a solid smart Bluetooth speaker that not only sounds great but has a few features not found in similar products. The mobile app support is actually quite nice if you have other Tronsmart smart products like their TWS as it uses the same application. Looking forward to what Tronsmart delivers next.
Tronsmart Onyx Prime
Intro: The Tronsmart Onyx Prime is a hybrid TWS with a 1DD 1BA driver configuration. For Bluetooth 5.2 support, it uses the well-known QCC3040 chip supporting AptX Adaptive which is backward compatible with AptX. Non-AptX users have AAC or SBC. USB-C charging. The manufacturer stated runtime of 40 hours is optimistically based on recharging more than a few times.
Packaging: Nicer and larger than I expected for the price. Inside you will find replacement ear hooks and a set of tips. Also a cool diagram showing the hybrid driver placement in the shell.
The case is slim and the earbuds have more of a vertical orientation. I would prefer a flat bottom so the case would stand upright.
The earbuds are comfortable and I would suggest rotating the earhooks to fit your ear for a more secure fit. The included tips seem ok but did not provide an adequate seal so I used my own tips. The touch-sensitive button on the earbud worked very well for me also.
Sound:
As other reviews have mentioned, there is some bass here. For those who are Harman2019 fans, this is a bit more than Harman levels. I measured the Onyx Prime as it was shipped without installing the app first. The blue line is labeled Tronsmart Onyx Prime Default is this out-of-the-box sound. If you are using the stock tips that do not seal well in your ears, this level of bass will not sound as extreme as it looks. If you do what I did and swap tips to fir your ears, this is a high quantity of bass. It is also impactful for a TWS or even some IEMs in the same price range. For my usage which is mainly outdoors, I do enjoy a bigger V-shape signature like this as it blocks out the environmental noise without fatiguing levels of volume. The bass here is big on quantity, fun, and more controlled than I assumed it would be.
The mids are going to take on some recession and warmth from this big V-shape but it is also where you will hear the quality of AptX in the resolution and detail, as well as the quality of the drivers, or I should say the decision to pair this BA with this DD. The two sound as one (after you turn the bass down), more so than other hybrid TWS I have tried recently and in the past. In the mids, you do get the warmth from the bassy DD but also those sharper overtones from the BA as you would expect from a hybrid driver configuration. For me, this bumps it from an average set to hybrid TWS done quite well as this BA contributes positively to the imaging and separation as you would expect. Considering the bass level out of the box, the vocals are quite clear and certainly better with some EQ. With AptX and this driver configuration, you will also hear the Bluetooth codec limitations on resolution, texture, detail compared to your wired sets. I don't say that negatively, but rather they did well to the sound quality to edge of what is possible in this configuration and price.
The treble is a bit thin but it is the contrast to the bass and in the V-shape sound, especially outdoors, it works well. For a TWS to present that much treble extension without fatigue or straying off into metallic tinniness, again I think these two drivers work well and a good design decision.
For the stage, a bit small. Could use more width and some height to improve the imaging.
My personal preference was to start with the HIFI preset in the application EQ panel which you can see as the green line above in the graph. Drops the bass quite a bit and the upper range works better for me as slightly higher volumes. Generally, a shallower V is also going to help showcase those mids better as well. Again, this is dependent on your fit so with a poor fit, the hifi preset is going to sound nearly bass-less.
As far as the application support, do install it and check/upgrade the firmware as mine needed an upgrade. The EQ presets are easy to set but when I would quit the app the re-open it, the EQ settings do not seem to be saved or recalled. I figured this out after spending a bunch of time customizing the hifi preset only to have it disappear on the next open of the app. So for now, I stick to the Hifi preset. Hopefully, they will offer more robust custom EQ support in the future.
Thank you to Tronsmart for sending this review sample to me. You can find more info on Tronsmart's main site here or purchase on Amazon here
For more details, my video review is here:
Intro: The Tronsmart Onyx Prime is a hybrid TWS with a 1DD 1BA driver configuration. For Bluetooth 5.2 support, it uses the well-known QCC3040 chip supporting AptX Adaptive which is backward compatible with AptX. Non-AptX users have AAC or SBC. USB-C charging. The manufacturer stated runtime of 40 hours is optimistically based on recharging more than a few times.
Packaging: Nicer and larger than I expected for the price. Inside you will find replacement ear hooks and a set of tips. Also a cool diagram showing the hybrid driver placement in the shell.
The case is slim and the earbuds have more of a vertical orientation. I would prefer a flat bottom so the case would stand upright.
The earbuds are comfortable and I would suggest rotating the earhooks to fit your ear for a more secure fit. The included tips seem ok but did not provide an adequate seal so I used my own tips. The touch-sensitive button on the earbud worked very well for me also.
Sound:
As other reviews have mentioned, there is some bass here. For those who are Harman2019 fans, this is a bit more than Harman levels. I measured the Onyx Prime as it was shipped without installing the app first. The blue line is labeled Tronsmart Onyx Prime Default is this out-of-the-box sound. If you are using the stock tips that do not seal well in your ears, this level of bass will not sound as extreme as it looks. If you do what I did and swap tips to fir your ears, this is a high quantity of bass. It is also impactful for a TWS or even some IEMs in the same price range. For my usage which is mainly outdoors, I do enjoy a bigger V-shape signature like this as it blocks out the environmental noise without fatiguing levels of volume. The bass here is big on quantity, fun, and more controlled than I assumed it would be.
The mids are going to take on some recession and warmth from this big V-shape but it is also where you will hear the quality of AptX in the resolution and detail, as well as the quality of the drivers, or I should say the decision to pair this BA with this DD. The two sound as one (after you turn the bass down), more so than other hybrid TWS I have tried recently and in the past. In the mids, you do get the warmth from the bassy DD but also those sharper overtones from the BA as you would expect from a hybrid driver configuration. For me, this bumps it from an average set to hybrid TWS done quite well as this BA contributes positively to the imaging and separation as you would expect. Considering the bass level out of the box, the vocals are quite clear and certainly better with some EQ. With AptX and this driver configuration, you will also hear the Bluetooth codec limitations on resolution, texture, detail compared to your wired sets. I don't say that negatively, but rather they did well to the sound quality to edge of what is possible in this configuration and price.
The treble is a bit thin but it is the contrast to the bass and in the V-shape sound, especially outdoors, it works well. For a TWS to present that much treble extension without fatigue or straying off into metallic tinniness, again I think these two drivers work well and a good design decision.
For the stage, a bit small. Could use more width and some height to improve the imaging.
My personal preference was to start with the HIFI preset in the application EQ panel which you can see as the green line above in the graph. Drops the bass quite a bit and the upper range works better for me as slightly higher volumes. Generally, a shallower V is also going to help showcase those mids better as well. Again, this is dependent on your fit so with a poor fit, the hifi preset is going to sound nearly bass-less.
As far as the application support, do install it and check/upgrade the firmware as mine needed an upgrade. The EQ presets are easy to set but when I would quit the app the re-open it, the EQ settings do not seem to be saved or recalled. I figured this out after spending a bunch of time customizing the hifi preset only to have it disappear on the next open of the app. So for now, I stick to the Hifi preset. Hopefully, they will offer more robust custom EQ support in the future.
Thank you to Tronsmart for sending this review sample to me. You can find more info on Tronsmart's main site here or purchase on Amazon here
For more details, my video review is here:
KBEAR Aurora
Disclaimers: I received this review sample from KeepHifi.
I am a BL03 fan/lush mid fan so Aurora's signature is one that I like very much. Aurora is the rare set that comes along that so closely matches my own preferences that I would consider it a bias in this case, I was almost predisposed to love this one.
Specs: 1 10mm titanium dome dynamic driver, mirrored shells. recessed 2pin.
Accessories: Leather case and KBEAR KB07 tip set, electric blue SPC cable, cleaning cloth, brush
Build: Stunning metal shells polished to mirror finish, blue accents. Top notch look and feel
Fit and comfort: no issues. Fits great and KBEAR has learned to use lighter materials from their previous flagships.
Gear: Mostly Qudelix 5K with balanced output, Comply isolation tips, NiceHCK SpaceCloud cable 2.5mm
Sound: warm, Harman-ish, bass similar level to KBEAR Believe plus more decay, full note weight, treble level like a more extended BL03, coherent, natural, organic like a 1DD, volume scales like Tanchjim Tanya. You should be getting the idea that it has a Blon-esque sound and with that, the tuning leans towards that richer, thicker, lush sound so if you are a detail chaser or prefer a lighter note weight, the Aurora may not be for you.
Bass: If you are going to hear any benefit from a small burn-in, it is in the bass. Not any change in level, but tightened up a bit from my out of the box impression. The bass is clean and controlled considering the quantity but I do wish there was a bit more detail/texture to it. I think the bass level is right for balance and quality is good, but $170usd is quite a bit of money for a single DD. On one hand, I do wish it was a bit faster, tighter, hit harder, and more texture, but I am not sure that would have been faithful to the sound signature. It plays perfectly into this thicker, smoother, softer, relaxed sound so I think from a technical point of view, I would want more, but I think it would need to be a different sound signature. For fans of slam and rumble, it can go there, but not an ear shaking basshead set. I think the balance between bass and treble is good, any more lower bass and it would have been quite dark.
Mids: Think in terms of your BL03 descriptors, weighty, meaty, rich, thick, lush, textured, natural, detailed but lacking the clarity and transparency of leaner sets. As a BL03 fan, these mids are very familiar, just better, cleaner, more detailed with a more capable dynamic driver. On one hand, there is this natural and luscious quality to the vocals but for hybrid/tri-brid fans, this is still a 1DD and will not have above average details or resolution. Generally both male and female vocals have plenty of warmth, but on the soft side. There are no hard edges or any hint of aggressive gain here.
Treble: For those familiar with KBEAR Believe, you will recognize a drop in the treble level. See the graph above. Maybe that was due to feedback or just design. In my opinion, it is a bit of an overcompensation. The extension and quality is great, but the level needs a slight boost to bring back some sparkle and air. That will flow down to better dynamics in the mids and add a bit of an edge that I said was missing. I understand the softer presentation, but I think it also results in an apparent less-detailed sound. Just a bit of EQ or tips that offer a bit of emphasis to the upper treble makes Aurora better without changing its character.
Soundstage: One of those 3D stages where you first notice the vocals are offset from your head and then as the instruments fill in, there is sound all around the space. It is not the largest space and in no way cramped, but feels immersive and in line with my expectations at this price tag. One of those sets, where there is no “at the ears”, it is more of a continuous space, not discreet positions. A big stage with lots of separation and easy to pinpoint instruments in the space.
Tonality: Warm but slightly dark due to the treble level. I prefer a slight treble boost to add a bit more brightness and better balance. Great 1DD timbre.
Details: Good for a 1DD, but detail chasers will want more. My first impression was detailed, but can squeeze out more detail with some more treble.
Volume: Easier to drive than Believe, but it also loves more power, more volume. At lower volume, the treble level is more noticeable so hit vol + a few times. And then a few more times.
Price: The $170usd seems on the high side for a 1DD. Potential buyers should weigh their preferences against what is offered by Aurora. While it seems like a steep price, the demand has exceeded supply thus far into the release.
More rambling can be found here:
Extra Photos:
Disclaimers: I received this review sample from KeepHifi.
I am a BL03 fan/lush mid fan so Aurora's signature is one that I like very much. Aurora is the rare set that comes along that so closely matches my own preferences that I would consider it a bias in this case, I was almost predisposed to love this one.
Specs: 1 10mm titanium dome dynamic driver, mirrored shells. recessed 2pin.
Accessories: Leather case and KBEAR KB07 tip set, electric blue SPC cable, cleaning cloth, brush
Build: Stunning metal shells polished to mirror finish, blue accents. Top notch look and feel
Fit and comfort: no issues. Fits great and KBEAR has learned to use lighter materials from their previous flagships.
Gear: Mostly Qudelix 5K with balanced output, Comply isolation tips, NiceHCK SpaceCloud cable 2.5mm
Sound: warm, Harman-ish, bass similar level to KBEAR Believe plus more decay, full note weight, treble level like a more extended BL03, coherent, natural, organic like a 1DD, volume scales like Tanchjim Tanya. You should be getting the idea that it has a Blon-esque sound and with that, the tuning leans towards that richer, thicker, lush sound so if you are a detail chaser or prefer a lighter note weight, the Aurora may not be for you.
Bass: If you are going to hear any benefit from a small burn-in, it is in the bass. Not any change in level, but tightened up a bit from my out of the box impression. The bass is clean and controlled considering the quantity but I do wish there was a bit more detail/texture to it. I think the bass level is right for balance and quality is good, but $170usd is quite a bit of money for a single DD. On one hand, I do wish it was a bit faster, tighter, hit harder, and more texture, but I am not sure that would have been faithful to the sound signature. It plays perfectly into this thicker, smoother, softer, relaxed sound so I think from a technical point of view, I would want more, but I think it would need to be a different sound signature. For fans of slam and rumble, it can go there, but not an ear shaking basshead set. I think the balance between bass and treble is good, any more lower bass and it would have been quite dark.
Mids: Think in terms of your BL03 descriptors, weighty, meaty, rich, thick, lush, textured, natural, detailed but lacking the clarity and transparency of leaner sets. As a BL03 fan, these mids are very familiar, just better, cleaner, more detailed with a more capable dynamic driver. On one hand, there is this natural and luscious quality to the vocals but for hybrid/tri-brid fans, this is still a 1DD and will not have above average details or resolution. Generally both male and female vocals have plenty of warmth, but on the soft side. There are no hard edges or any hint of aggressive gain here.
Treble: For those familiar with KBEAR Believe, you will recognize a drop in the treble level. See the graph above. Maybe that was due to feedback or just design. In my opinion, it is a bit of an overcompensation. The extension and quality is great, but the level needs a slight boost to bring back some sparkle and air. That will flow down to better dynamics in the mids and add a bit of an edge that I said was missing. I understand the softer presentation, but I think it also results in an apparent less-detailed sound. Just a bit of EQ or tips that offer a bit of emphasis to the upper treble makes Aurora better without changing its character.
Soundstage: One of those 3D stages where you first notice the vocals are offset from your head and then as the instruments fill in, there is sound all around the space. It is not the largest space and in no way cramped, but feels immersive and in line with my expectations at this price tag. One of those sets, where there is no “at the ears”, it is more of a continuous space, not discreet positions. A big stage with lots of separation and easy to pinpoint instruments in the space.
Tonality: Warm but slightly dark due to the treble level. I prefer a slight treble boost to add a bit more brightness and better balance. Great 1DD timbre.
Details: Good for a 1DD, but detail chasers will want more. My first impression was detailed, but can squeeze out more detail with some more treble.
Volume: Easier to drive than Believe, but it also loves more power, more volume. At lower volume, the treble level is more noticeable so hit vol + a few times. And then a few more times.
Price: The $170usd seems on the high side for a 1DD. Potential buyers should weigh their preferences against what is offered by Aurora. While it seems like a steep price, the demand has exceeded supply thus far into the release.
More rambling can be found here:
Extra Photos:
Redcarmoose
Nice review! Beautiful photos!
paulwasabii
Thank you very much
Intro: The KBEAR KB06 is a recent release by the relatively new company KBEAR. The KB06 is a 2BA 1DD hybrid which is not common in the under $30 range where you mostly find 1BA 1DD. In the under $30 range, ChiFi fans usually recommend the KZ ZSN or ZSN Pro or Sony MH755 as I have done here in the past. The KB06 is another alternative offering a more natural sound, better soundstage, and plenty of bass. I think those characteristics will appeal to some users looking for recommendations in the under $30 category.
Fit and Finish: It is quite small and very comfortable. The shell is teardrop in shape, metal back plate and resin transparent shell. There is a vent on the backplate, but I did not try covering it up to see how it affected overall sound. The cable is straight out of the KZ warehouse, the standard braided copper brown cable.
Sound: When I mention the KB06 as an alternative to the KZ ZSN Pro, it is very dependent on the music preferences and tolerance for bass. The KZ ZSN Pro is more consistent across genres of music whereas the KB06 can be more of a wildcard in how it responds to the synergy of bass, vocals, and instruments.
I am a fan of heavy bass but it also needs to sound pleasing to the ears. There is no doubt the KB06 can supply plenty of bass, but I would prefer it to be a bit more restrained and defined. Other than the initial wow factor of the bass on an initial listen, I think it would have been better to match the quantity with the quality. In this case, the KB06 responds well to bringing the bass down a notch with an EQ. My favorite bass notes were mostly pure mid bass, big punches of bass or plucks on an upright. The natural sound comes thru more than a big EDM sub bass movement which doesn’t quite have a matching texture and richness versus the quantity of bass.
The mids are where it is at with the KB06. Female voices, guitars, most instruments sound surprisingly good. Voices are also brought very forward which is again another tuning choice that will either attract or turn off some folks. When you combine a clear, strong vocal with a wide soundstage, it can sound very, very good. That was one issue with the ZSN Pro, not nearly as wide and you will miss some of the airy-ness and reverberations of the vocals. One issue with the mids was the clashing of the forward vocals and other instruments such as guitars. In Lady Gaga’s Joanne, she sings and plays the guitar, but if you follow the guitar, it will get lost behind her vocals. Other singers and guitars do not show the issue but something to be aware of if you are a critical listener.
The treble tries to avoid peaks and brightness. It seems to roll off early and some details will be lost in the upper ranges. I think this was a better decision and let the mids shine where most popular music lives. For this reason, rock, pop, country, and other popular genres work well. I do listen to quite a bit of EDM and this is not my favorite for that genre on the bass side as well as the treble where you will lose texture on some of those computer-generated noises. I think the extra BA does present more natural instruments but not nearly as helpful on more computer-generated sounds.
Conclusion: I have been asked here and other platforms for recommendations in the $20-$30 range and I think the KB06 is a valid choice for some people. Obviously my next question would be what are your music preferences and bass tolerance, but I think the strong vocals is attractive to many people and useful in higher noise listening environments.
Fit and Finish: It is quite small and very comfortable. The shell is teardrop in shape, metal back plate and resin transparent shell. There is a vent on the backplate, but I did not try covering it up to see how it affected overall sound. The cable is straight out of the KZ warehouse, the standard braided copper brown cable.
Sound: When I mention the KB06 as an alternative to the KZ ZSN Pro, it is very dependent on the music preferences and tolerance for bass. The KZ ZSN Pro is more consistent across genres of music whereas the KB06 can be more of a wildcard in how it responds to the synergy of bass, vocals, and instruments.
I am a fan of heavy bass but it also needs to sound pleasing to the ears. There is no doubt the KB06 can supply plenty of bass, but I would prefer it to be a bit more restrained and defined. Other than the initial wow factor of the bass on an initial listen, I think it would have been better to match the quantity with the quality. In this case, the KB06 responds well to bringing the bass down a notch with an EQ. My favorite bass notes were mostly pure mid bass, big punches of bass or plucks on an upright. The natural sound comes thru more than a big EDM sub bass movement which doesn’t quite have a matching texture and richness versus the quantity of bass.
The mids are where it is at with the KB06. Female voices, guitars, most instruments sound surprisingly good. Voices are also brought very forward which is again another tuning choice that will either attract or turn off some folks. When you combine a clear, strong vocal with a wide soundstage, it can sound very, very good. That was one issue with the ZSN Pro, not nearly as wide and you will miss some of the airy-ness and reverberations of the vocals. One issue with the mids was the clashing of the forward vocals and other instruments such as guitars. In Lady Gaga’s Joanne, she sings and plays the guitar, but if you follow the guitar, it will get lost behind her vocals. Other singers and guitars do not show the issue but something to be aware of if you are a critical listener.
The treble tries to avoid peaks and brightness. It seems to roll off early and some details will be lost in the upper ranges. I think this was a better decision and let the mids shine where most popular music lives. For this reason, rock, pop, country, and other popular genres work well. I do listen to quite a bit of EDM and this is not my favorite for that genre on the bass side as well as the treble where you will lose texture on some of those computer-generated noises. I think the extra BA does present more natural instruments but not nearly as helpful on more computer-generated sounds.
Conclusion: I have been asked here and other platforms for recommendations in the $20-$30 range and I think the KB06 is a valid choice for some people. Obviously my next question would be what are your music preferences and bass tolerance, but I think the strong vocals is attractive to many people and useful in higher noise listening environments.
TL;DR It is everything good about the ZS10 Pro but better. KZ still needs to tighten the bass and thicken the improved treble.
Intro: The KZ ZSX is the latest hybrid IEM from KZ utilizing 1DD and 5BA. Coming from the ZS10P, that is an extra BA which happens to be a new model fo KZ called the DWEK (actually 2 DWEKs used in the ZSX). On paper, that is the biggest change from the ZS10P.
Packaging: New fancy packaging for the ZSX.
Cable: Same cable as the ZS10P. I wasn’t very impressed with the ZSX with the standard cable. I have no proof, but some of the initial reviews saying the ZSX is a side-grade to the ZS10P or this mids were probably using the stock cable. I went with a 16 core copper and it really adds some thickness to the bass and mids. The KZ silver/gold is also better than the stock cable. I wasn’t a cable believer until the ZSX. I had the same cable on the ZS10P and I do not think it changes the sound much at all.
Fit: Not the same as the ZS10P. For me, the ZS10P was the best fitting KZ and the flat back always feels flush even if it sticks out a bit. The ZSX is more like Frankenstein bolts in your ears if you look in the mirror. Fit-wise, they don’t bother me at all but I know this is not the case with everyone. I slipped on the large star tips just as I did with the ZS10P.
Sound: There are a couple of FR charts on here, take a look, the two look very similar up to 7K, the ZSX dips and the extends out further than the ZS10P. I do not think these on-paper changes capture the in-ear experience of the ZSX. I think the sum, the entire package, is more than what I expected from the added driver since KZ hasn’t always been the more is better company.
The bass is very much like the ZS10P which means plentiful but not necessarily fast or refined. With the 16 core cable, it is squarely in basehead territory. This is EDM, rap, pop bass rumble and punch, not Jazz trio precision bass. More so than the ZS10P, the bass punch is impactful, creeping into TFZ No. 3 territory. The TFZ is both more refined and more impactful, but the ZSX is in the ballpark.
The mids are quite similar. As I mentioned, the lower mids will be thicker, meatier with a different cable. What I noticed most from using the ZSX, it is difficult to find vocals that do not sound right. Usually, there is a Prince or Peter Gabriel or Tracy Chapman that doesn’t sound right on a KZ. The ZS10P was the higher range of voices, some Prince or Sam Smith. Generally, everything sounds more like it should on the ZSX, more like a pure dynamic driver, not a hybrid. More natural or organic timbre.
The treble is where the ZSX differentiates itself from the ZS10P. I never found the ZS10P fatiguing or too bright even on fatiguing music from Deadmau5. The ZSX just gives you more texture in the treble, not necessarily any more detail or resolution. Deadmau5 incessant rising notes sound more tolerable up until the drop. Less “steely” is how everyone describes it and I agree. The detail and resolution on the ZS10P were great for the price range and the ZSX retains the tiny vocal details and airy echos. Now the ZSX has a treble to match the bass so it seems much more balanced than the ZS10, again it feels more like a dynamic driver than a hybrid.
The soundstage was good on the ZS10P. Compared to the ZSN Pro, the ZS10P came with a much wider soundstage. I don’t necessarily think the soundstage is any wider or deeper (maybe deeper), but instrument imaging is better, more defined. Hard to put a pin on it, but the psychoacoustics are better than the ZS10P. Maybe it is simply the instruments sounding better so they are more noticeable on more complex tracks.
Conclusion: Despite the minimal changes on paper, the in-ear experience makes the ZSX a worthy upgrade to the ZS10 Pro. Unless your musical preferences go towards fast, precision bass, then it may not be a match for you. For me, no other KZ effortlessly played EDM, pop, rock, classic rock, hard rock, and metal was about as far down that path as I go.
Intro: The KZ ZSX is the latest hybrid IEM from KZ utilizing 1DD and 5BA. Coming from the ZS10P, that is an extra BA which happens to be a new model fo KZ called the DWEK (actually 2 DWEKs used in the ZSX). On paper, that is the biggest change from the ZS10P.
Packaging: New fancy packaging for the ZSX.
Cable: Same cable as the ZS10P. I wasn’t very impressed with the ZSX with the standard cable. I have no proof, but some of the initial reviews saying the ZSX is a side-grade to the ZS10P or this mids were probably using the stock cable. I went with a 16 core copper and it really adds some thickness to the bass and mids. The KZ silver/gold is also better than the stock cable. I wasn’t a cable believer until the ZSX. I had the same cable on the ZS10P and I do not think it changes the sound much at all.
Fit: Not the same as the ZS10P. For me, the ZS10P was the best fitting KZ and the flat back always feels flush even if it sticks out a bit. The ZSX is more like Frankenstein bolts in your ears if you look in the mirror. Fit-wise, they don’t bother me at all but I know this is not the case with everyone. I slipped on the large star tips just as I did with the ZS10P.
Sound: There are a couple of FR charts on here, take a look, the two look very similar up to 7K, the ZSX dips and the extends out further than the ZS10P. I do not think these on-paper changes capture the in-ear experience of the ZSX. I think the sum, the entire package, is more than what I expected from the added driver since KZ hasn’t always been the more is better company.
The bass is very much like the ZS10P which means plentiful but not necessarily fast or refined. With the 16 core cable, it is squarely in basehead territory. This is EDM, rap, pop bass rumble and punch, not Jazz trio precision bass. More so than the ZS10P, the bass punch is impactful, creeping into TFZ No. 3 territory. The TFZ is both more refined and more impactful, but the ZSX is in the ballpark.
The mids are quite similar. As I mentioned, the lower mids will be thicker, meatier with a different cable. What I noticed most from using the ZSX, it is difficult to find vocals that do not sound right. Usually, there is a Prince or Peter Gabriel or Tracy Chapman that doesn’t sound right on a KZ. The ZS10P was the higher range of voices, some Prince or Sam Smith. Generally, everything sounds more like it should on the ZSX, more like a pure dynamic driver, not a hybrid. More natural or organic timbre.
The treble is where the ZSX differentiates itself from the ZS10P. I never found the ZS10P fatiguing or too bright even on fatiguing music from Deadmau5. The ZSX just gives you more texture in the treble, not necessarily any more detail or resolution. Deadmau5 incessant rising notes sound more tolerable up until the drop. Less “steely” is how everyone describes it and I agree. The detail and resolution on the ZS10P were great for the price range and the ZSX retains the tiny vocal details and airy echos. Now the ZSX has a treble to match the bass so it seems much more balanced than the ZS10, again it feels more like a dynamic driver than a hybrid.
The soundstage was good on the ZS10P. Compared to the ZSN Pro, the ZS10P came with a much wider soundstage. I don’t necessarily think the soundstage is any wider or deeper (maybe deeper), but instrument imaging is better, more defined. Hard to put a pin on it, but the psychoacoustics are better than the ZS10P. Maybe it is simply the instruments sounding better so they are more noticeable on more complex tracks.
Conclusion: Despite the minimal changes on paper, the in-ear experience makes the ZSX a worthy upgrade to the ZS10 Pro. Unless your musical preferences go towards fast, precision bass, then it may not be a match for you. For me, no other KZ effortlessly played EDM, pop, rock, classic rock, hard rock, and metal was about as far down that path as I go.
Intro: The KB EAR F1 was the second earphone from KB EAR between the Opal and the KB10. The Opal is a single dynamic driver and this F1 is a single balanced armature. This is the first BA only earphone I had tried so I had some preconceived ideas of what it would sound like without a dynamic driver. Luckily my assumptions proved wrong and the F1 turned out to be a unique and capable addition to my collection.
Gear: LG V30+ phone, USB Audio Player Pro (kept it in Bit Perfect mode), most tracks either MQA from Tidal or local FLAC.
Fit and Finish: As you can see from the image, the F1 is a unique transparent resin L-shape with MMCX connectors. The cable is clear plastic-coated silver cores with aluminum casing on the gold-plated connectors. There is a metal KB EAR logo inside the body. There are L/R markings on the cable, but nearly impossible to see without good lighting. I guess a red or blue dot would have ruined the clear aesthetic.
Comfort: I am partial to IEM style fit with the bud flush in the ear and cable around the ear. The F1 sticks out of the ear more than an IEM and with enough weight outside of the ear, I found myself pushing them back in the ear to make sure the orientation was correct. In most cases the fit was fine, but I kept doing it because it felt like the bud had moved. Overall these are comfortable but you will need to get used to the shape and how it feels hanging from your ear. Beyond comfort, a very tight fit is required to hear the full sound from the F1. A loose fit will sound thin across the board and you will try to EQ the heck out of it, but go with large tips and make sure it is a tight fit.
Sound: Before the F1 arrived, I assumed the F1 would be lacking in the bass department, but what I didn’t expect was the flat frequency graph which you can see here. I like the typical V-shaped graphs and do not mind the emphasized lows and highs at all. Take a break and let your ears adjust to hearing music in its more natural state and everything will sound great.
Despite my assumptions, the F1 has plenty of sub-bass. KB EAR chose wisely on the vented BA. Rolls off a bit fast for my taste, but I was surprised it could rumble at all. Royals by Lorde sounds great, just a bit fast on the sub-bass. Royals pushes the bass and the F1 can respond, but on songs where the sub-bass is not as deep, the roll-off will be more evident. There is also plenty of mid-bass but my impression is it is fast and tight. Similar to the sub-bass, when not pushed it can sound thin, more like a drum machine than a drum, but always enough of the initial punch. I like songs with quiet, airy vocals and that is where the F1 is in the sweet spot. Think about Sam Smith, Lady Gaga, Dido, and Peter Gabriel who have vocals in the lower ranges. Moving from the mids to the highs, the word “detailed” stuck with me. Try the 24bit version of Dido’s Hurricanes. So much detail and transparency in the quiet vocals. I do not find the treble bright at all, similar to the low end, rolls off a bit quick. If there was a point I wanted to turn off bit-perfect and EQ a bit, it would be to bump the treble a bit. I think that might be the trade-off with the vented BA, better low end at the expense of a high end that rolls off quickly. Personally, I prefer the detailed vocals over the perfect cymbal crash. These might not be for those seeking the soaring strings of orchestral music. Soundstage is average width but not deep. Instrument imaging is good for a few instruments, but will sound crowded with more layers. Again, vocals are in the F1 sweet spot, not complex, layered arrangements.
Pros:
Unique L-shaped design in clear resin.
Detailed, airy vocals
Cons:
Better suited to music in the mid ranges, not as good for bass-heavy or orchestral.
Other products in the same price range may be better for general purpose listening.
Gear: LG V30+ phone, USB Audio Player Pro (kept it in Bit Perfect mode), most tracks either MQA from Tidal or local FLAC.
Fit and Finish: As you can see from the image, the F1 is a unique transparent resin L-shape with MMCX connectors. The cable is clear plastic-coated silver cores with aluminum casing on the gold-plated connectors. There is a metal KB EAR logo inside the body. There are L/R markings on the cable, but nearly impossible to see without good lighting. I guess a red or blue dot would have ruined the clear aesthetic.
Comfort: I am partial to IEM style fit with the bud flush in the ear and cable around the ear. The F1 sticks out of the ear more than an IEM and with enough weight outside of the ear, I found myself pushing them back in the ear to make sure the orientation was correct. In most cases the fit was fine, but I kept doing it because it felt like the bud had moved. Overall these are comfortable but you will need to get used to the shape and how it feels hanging from your ear. Beyond comfort, a very tight fit is required to hear the full sound from the F1. A loose fit will sound thin across the board and you will try to EQ the heck out of it, but go with large tips and make sure it is a tight fit.
Sound: Before the F1 arrived, I assumed the F1 would be lacking in the bass department, but what I didn’t expect was the flat frequency graph which you can see here. I like the typical V-shaped graphs and do not mind the emphasized lows and highs at all. Take a break and let your ears adjust to hearing music in its more natural state and everything will sound great.
Despite my assumptions, the F1 has plenty of sub-bass. KB EAR chose wisely on the vented BA. Rolls off a bit fast for my taste, but I was surprised it could rumble at all. Royals by Lorde sounds great, just a bit fast on the sub-bass. Royals pushes the bass and the F1 can respond, but on songs where the sub-bass is not as deep, the roll-off will be more evident. There is also plenty of mid-bass but my impression is it is fast and tight. Similar to the sub-bass, when not pushed it can sound thin, more like a drum machine than a drum, but always enough of the initial punch. I like songs with quiet, airy vocals and that is where the F1 is in the sweet spot. Think about Sam Smith, Lady Gaga, Dido, and Peter Gabriel who have vocals in the lower ranges. Moving from the mids to the highs, the word “detailed” stuck with me. Try the 24bit version of Dido’s Hurricanes. So much detail and transparency in the quiet vocals. I do not find the treble bright at all, similar to the low end, rolls off a bit quick. If there was a point I wanted to turn off bit-perfect and EQ a bit, it would be to bump the treble a bit. I think that might be the trade-off with the vented BA, better low end at the expense of a high end that rolls off quickly. Personally, I prefer the detailed vocals over the perfect cymbal crash. These might not be for those seeking the soaring strings of orchestral music. Soundstage is average width but not deep. Instrument imaging is good for a few instruments, but will sound crowded with more layers. Again, vocals are in the F1 sweet spot, not complex, layered arrangements.
Pros:
Unique L-shaped design in clear resin.
Detailed, airy vocals
Cons:
Better suited to music in the mid ranges, not as good for bass-heavy or orchestral.
Other products in the same price range may be better for general purpose listening.
Disclaimer: The KZ ZS10 Pro was provided by Yooaudio and can be purchased here: https://www.amazon.com/Headphones-****-Earphones-Balanced-mic/dp/B07QTPSTHM/
Packaging: Coming from the KZ ZSN Pro, upgraded color packaging. Standard cable and tip selection though.
Comfort: The ZS10 Pro has been described as an improved ZSN Pro but using the same shell. I am firmly on the side of the ZSN Pro being one of the most comfortable IEM KZ has put out and the ZS10 Pro doesn’t change that. Same shell, same great fit and comfort.
Sound: I will side with nearly every review on the highs and lows. The mid-bass is great and not much different than the ZSN Pro. Sub-bass may be the same as well, I did not A/B them, but if you prefer a little rumble with your mid-bass punch, there is plenty on the ZS10 Pro. The treble is nice, it can sound warm and airy on the right song, think Christina Perri’s human or Fleetwood Mac’s Dreams. Honestly, Dreams sounds really amazing on these, blows me away. The mids are where there are more issues. If you read enough reviews, the mids lie somewhere between perfect and recessed or flat. I agree, depending on the song you are listening to, it can be great or not quite right. My impression is certain vocals just sounded slightly off, the tone was not quite right, often too high. I had a difficult time with Prince’s Purple Rain and Calvin Harris’ Promises. Bjork Hyperballad was a bit recessed. To me, the vocals were a bit thin and recessed. At the same time, some vocals sounded amazing like Lorde or Tracy Chapman. I used UAPP and Toneboosters EQ to adjust the mids in those cases. I do think Bjork’s vocals need a little boost to bring them where I expected them to be. In this case, the ZS10 Pro responds well to small adjustments and the Toneboosters parametric EQ has bell-shaped curves which helps roll off the edges into the upper and lower mids. After reading many ZS10 Pro glowing reviews before I received them, I thought mine were broken. If you read closely, others have noted some issues in the midsection, but perhaps it sounds better on better sources or most of it depends on your song choice. I do believe many people will never hear any issues on the ZS10 Pro simply due to their music preference so just wanted to say there may be a need for some EQ if your favorite song does not sound as you were expecting.
Overall: It is hard to dispute the ZS10 Pro’s sound quality at $50 and its status as the most talked about KZ product at the moment. Given how well received the KZ ZSN Pro was for its price, comfort, and sound quality, it should be no surprise that the ZS10 Pro ups the ante in sound quality while retaining amazing comfort and value.
Longer Video Review: Here
More photos: Here
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