Don’t want to read this full review? Here’s the TLDR
Excellent bass, midrange and treble. No unnatural peaks or mudiness, sounds realistic and transparent. Kind of boring sounding at first but the longer the listen the more music elements will start to pop out, giving way for the listener to appreciate how the audio engineers master a specific track.

However, with all of these praises with the sound quality, there is some technical bugs that needs to be considered when buying them, first is the noise floor at low volumes, very annoying with games and watching youtube video, second is the 1s delay when transitioning to a new track, and last is the cable microphonics.

Anyways, best IEM in my collection in terms of sound quality.

Disclaimer…

• I bought the Quarks DSP with my own money, so anything I say here is with my own experience and thoughts with the Quarks DSP.
• YOUR MILEAGE WILL ALWAYS VARY
• Kindly check the "My Specific Library" section, to know if we have the same music taste, if not kindly check other reviews, as this review may somehow be inacccurate if ever you decided to buy the said IEM.

Let us talk about the sound.
Bass: Subwoofer like, Less Fun but Pinpoint
Quarks DSP has 10 db of subbass and enough midbass to replay lower pitched instruments accurately, the quantity isn't basshead level, however it is a dream come true for balanced heads. The bass on the Quarks DSP is pretty much in the background all the time and never influences the midrange in any way. Think of it like a 2 subwoofer system at the back of the head.

Referencing to the graph below, Quarks DSP has a tucked bass response which avoids muddiness or bloat with the caveat of making some vocals lack the conceivable "lushness or warmth" that other budget sets may have. Bass guitars riffs and drums sticking are replayed with full on transparency and are very clean sounding however they can sound unnatural or lacking weight "oomph" in some tracks (e.g Hip-hop or Rap). Subbass rumble is clearly audible as long as the track calls for it, otherwise the subbass is pretty subdued all the time.

In short, if you are bass = life this set is not recommended, however if you just want a clean bass Quarks DSP will serve you effortlessly.

Click to expand...

Midrange: Transparent like a Distilled Water in a Clear Glass.
All vocals with the Quarks DSP sounds like they are in a treated room with no echo or any reverbs. Vocals sounds like how they would sound in real life, there are no conceivable coloration, it isn't warm or cold, just sound very real. If you are one of the people who like to hear their favorite singer without any boundary this is the cheapest way to it.

Instrument fundamentals has the same trait as the vocals, it is just superbly transparent and clean without sacrificing note definition. Instruments sounds like they are floating in voided space of some kind and it is easy to pinpoint each instrument on that space. There are also no instruments that are too forward or too far from each other, all instruments are in the same plane and only changes when the one who masters the song defines it so.

Quarks DSP will let you experience midrange heaven in a cheap.

Click to expand...

Treble: Inoffensive but Well Extended
Quarks DSP lets me discover the term "boundless extension", like every harmonics are properly represented without harshness, fuzzy peaks, weird boost or resonances. Most sets I have tried so far (yes even the midtier ones) has a conceivable peak or resonances that somehow helps with hearing the nuances in music but with the caveat of making the sound less realistic. Quarks DSP is a different case, its like drinking a distilled water after a lifetime of soda. The treble doesn't have any weird quirks to it like all the sets I have tried, it is just linear, correct and smooth.

The treble response although smooth, it doesn't miss any nuances that all instruments may have, pianos, strings, trumpets, violins and other high-pitched instruments have full clarity and sparkle. Even atmospherics effects/electronic sound is represented excellently

Details aren't forced to the listener; those details are just floating on the soundscape waiting to be noticed.

Click to expand...

Lastly, I also have not experienced any treble fatigue even with hours of listening to Quarks DSP. So big plus for people who are sensitive to high frequencies.

Balance Between the Main Frequencies


The sound signature of the Quarks DSP closely follows the Harman Target but 3kHz above is reduced to remove any sibilance or unnatural clarity to the sound. The bass starts to roll off around 100 Hz to avoid influencing the midrange in any way while still giving enough clarity to the bass guitars and drums. The highest point of the bass (20Hz @95 dB) and upper midrange (2.8kHz @95 dB) is perfectly balanced and gives a very clean midrange response while still making sure that the bass and treble are still audible. The response onwards (3kHz above) is very linear with minor peaks to avoid damaging the harmonics of most instruments. The upper treble starts to roll off (at 15dB) around 10kHz, so that cymbals death are still audible without making the sound artifically sharp or strident.

Intagibles

• Soundstage has a room like proportion with above average width, height and depth (referencing to $10-$50 IEMs). Better than all KZs and the hyped IEMs right now like SalZero, Waner and Chu.
• Imaging is on point and accurate, instruments sound as where they should be without any fog or weird forwardness (specially in cymbals and violins), vocals is centered yet not overly forward.
• Separation is also excellent, no eye squinting is needed to layer the instruments and vocals. Mostly due to the impeccable imaging and bass tuck.
• Timbre is realistic and analog in most of my Japanese tracks but tends to lean towards a cold analytical (lean presentation) in some Western rock tracks.

"Listening to Quarks DSP feels like watching a singer at the center of a room devoid of reflections. Instruments have specific bubbles on the soundscape and no instrument is artifically forward or recessed. Might even say that Quarks DSP has the best headstage presentation I've heard so far add the absence of any weird quirkness in the treble... "Simply realistic"

Click to expand...

Drawbacks / Cons

• Noisefloor is audible and a big deal breaker, occurs when watching videos or playing games at lower volumes.
• There is a delay whenever the next song starts, every next song starts with a 1-2 sec delay before playing.
• Microphonics are atrocious, specially when travelling due to the small footprint of the IEM.
• Custom eartips are needed to achieve perfect isolation and intended sound.
• Might be boring/flat/sleepy/undynamic to some, specially for the ones who came from a V-shaped IEM.

Music Enjoyment Diary
Seisyun Complex by Kessoku Band
[Guitars, Bass Guitars, Drums, Female Vocals]
Sounds very complete, argghh, the resolution is on full throttle with this IEM. From drums, bass guitars, electric guitars to the vocals they come off as very clean and transparent. There's also no instruments that is too forward or almost inaudible. Plus the room ambience of this track is well represented with the Quarks DSP, there's literally no detail escaping my hearing. Bass guitar notes are also clearly audible in all parts of the track..add the nuanced yet lush replay of the female vocal lead..man.., like I don't even know if I'm listening to this track in a medium of some kind, it feels like I'm watching the Kessoku band doing their thing in a room.

Replay Rating: Beautiful

Clouds in the Water by Nagi Yanagi
[Cymbal Crashes, Female Vocals, Detail Retrieval]
You know when an IEM plays my favorite Nagi Yanagi tracks with full on transparency and realism, I just became so mesmerized that I grin unconciously like an idiot, and cannot move even an inch, cause I just want to savor this listening moment? Man that's how Quarks DSP played this track, f**king amazing, the cymbal crashes are full and properly separated on the soundscape, Nagi's voice is forward and very clear, drums sticking are audible without influencing or damaging Nagi's voice in any way. The ambience of the song is also properly replayed (yes the studio like feel is there, which I only heard with the RS1)..Argghhh..Amaazzing!!!..No where near my recent IEMs.

Replay Rating: Beautiful

Honey and Time Travel by Haruka Sora
[Ambience, Detail Retrieval, Imaging, Bass Slam]
The first minute of this song is literally an ASMR, and Quarks DSP plays it like Haruka Sora is whispering in my left and right ear, like what the fudge, it sounds so reaall..argghh..literally no IEM I have ever tried plays ASMR like this..haha..if you are a fan of such things buy Quarks DSP right fudging now!..

Anyways going to the imaging, yeah its properly represented with the Quarks DSP, I can literally imagine Haruka Sora within my headspace and the instruments at the background. Around 1:50, the sound effects is literally massaging my ears..what the..ok..ok..going to the bass part around 3:43, ahmm, why does the bass sound so clean and detailed yet authoritative at the same time like..bruh..what is even happening, I'm fudging hyped right now!! arghh..what the fudge is this replay. Even my RS1 which is 5x the price of this IEM can't play this track like this..

Replay Rating: Beautiful

Souvenir by Bump of Chicken
[Male Vocals, Bass Guitars, Drums, Piano]
This is one of the cases where Bump of Chicken is replayed with full on clarity, like with all of my recent IEMs their tracks are either too warm or too muddy, like the lead singer is very audible but it starts to influence the instruments due to how low the pitch of the lead singer is. Their tracks also has a wow factor with the Quarks DSP since there are micro nuances that starts to pop out due to the bass tuck.

Full on resolution again with the Quarks DSP, there's literally no details escaping my hearing. Plus it isn't artifically detailed like my other IEMs. Bass guitars are well audible, drums have a nice snap and slam to it, pianos have enough reverb and clarity even if the track gets complicated around the chorus.

Replay Rating: Beautiful

Ephemeral by Akira Kosemura feat Nagi Yanagi
[Ambience, Soundstage, Imaging, Female Vocals]
I want to fall into reverie with this song..like seriously its making me fall asleep. Nagi's voice is very clear and lush, its like she is singing a very beautiful lullaby on my front with the piano and little electronics effects on the background supporting her, creating this ethereal harmony. The bongo drums around 1:17 are imaged accurately and I can discern that it has a specific place on the soundscape.

I am just in love with this track, and Quarks DSP makes me fall in love with it even more. It's like Nagi's voice is warming my heart in someway, plus how Akira Kosemura composed this track is so lovely, it's like I travelled back to my childhood days again.

Click to expand...

Replay Rating: Beautiful

Tips Rollin

• JVC Spiraldots / Aet08 / Spinfits CP145 - All of these tips are good, and basically unlocks the Quarks DSP, they sound almost the same with the Spiraldots being a bit ahead since its wider sounding than the two
• Foam Tips - same as above, but reduces the soundstage depth by a hair. Frequency balance is still the same as the above.
• Stock Tips - basically makes the Quarks DSP lowres and bass lite, don't.

Technical Aspects

The measurement is repeated 5 times and the IEM is measured in a quite environment. The sound is mainly consist of Fundamentals and 2nd Harmonics, which is a typical response of an IEM with a quality driver. However there are noticeable noise floor around 150 Hz to 1kHz which can be noticeable at lower volumes but can be mitigated by listening to the Quarks DSP at moderate or high volume. Anyways, most of the time it is very hard to notice distortion in an IEM, so no need to worry about these measurements, just wanted to put this here for reference.​

Click to expand...

RT60 is a measure of how long sound takes to decay by 60 dB in a space that has a diffuse soundfield - REW Website​

Click to expand...

As you can see as I move the frequency around 100 Hz, the decay starts to fall off even faster compared to the frequencies before it. Which means that the frequency (100-250 Hz) that correlates to midbass boominess is almost gone before it even influences the lower midrange, giving a very clean midrange response due to the absence of bass resonances. You can also see how the DSP do its thing around 100 Hz (the square waterfall plot).

Click to expand...

Comparison
Quarks DSP vs 7Hz Salnotes Zero
SalZero is brighter, digital sounding, has metallic timbre, unnatural peak at the upper treble region, bass lite. Quarks DSP sounds more complete, realistic, has no metallic timbre, sounds very smooth, is neither bright or warm, definition of balance. Soundstage projection is also bigger on the Quarks DSP while also having the same detail retrieval and more accurate imaging than the SalZero. Quarks DSP takes the win.

Quarks DSP vs Tangzu Waner
Waner sounds more smooth, somehow muddy at higher volumes, has average soundstage projection, meh detail retrieval, has more warmth and lushness to the vocals, skewed imaging. Quarks DSP sounds more analytical while still retaining the smooth signature, it also doesn't have a hole before the resonance peak giving more "resolution" to the music, sounds complete and life like, more dynamic sounding, wider and taller soundstage. To be honest after trying again the Waner after a minute of Quarks DSP, Waner just sounds wrong and muddy.. Quarks DSP takes the win.

Quarks DSP vs KZ EDA High Resolution
EDA High Resolution has a more exaggerated soundstage presentation, brighter sound signature, weird positioning of vocals, sibilance in some tracks, sounds more artificial, somehow competent detail retrieval. Quarks DSP on the other hand sounds realistic and accurate, soundstage isn't exaggerated and imaging is miles better, vocal positioning is also centered and properly forward unlike the Hires that tends to push vocals at the front of my face, has more "resolution" compared to boosting the treble region. Quarks DSP takes the win.

Quarks DSP vs Acoustune RS1 Modded
RS1 sounds bloated and muddy when compared to Quarks DSP, but it has a studio feel "warmth" that is very popular in the audiophile community, it also has more lushness to the vocals, fuller replay to the cymbals, smoother presentation, same resolution as the Quarks DSP. However what I don't like with the RS1 is the imaging is quite weird and it has a hole like feeling compared the Quarks DSP, which is just pure transparent in its presentation. Quarks DSP takes the win.

Quarks DSP vs Hzsound Heart Mirror
Heart Mirror has boosted upper treble that some people correlate to "technical" performance, has lesser subbass, lean replay of bass guitars and drums, weird vocal positioning like the EDA High Resolution. Quarks DSP on the other hand sounds more detailed and nuanced without unnaturally boosting the upper treble, sounds more realistic, it also has a wider and taller soundstage, plus imaging is on point all of the time, separation is also impeccable with the Quarks DSP compared to Heart Mirror which tends to smear notes in some tracks. Quarks DSP takes the win.

To be honest whenever I switch from Quarks DSP to the IEMs listed above, all of those IEMs just sounded plain wrong, like I can notice how the treble is boosted in that certain IEM or how the bass is boosted or even how skewed the imaging is. It makes me not want to use those IEMs anymore, like I didn't expect that a $10 IEM will make me experience such clean and accurate sound signature, its a feat really.

Click to expand...

Recommend Tracks/Genres
All except Hiphop and Rap

Overall Rating
S- (Current top in my ranking list)
Highly Recommended~
My Ranking Listo!
Asterhythmist

For Gapless Users/Gamers/Video Watchers/Elites/Purist/EQ Allergics:
Do not buy this IEM. Don't.

For People who want to appreciate their music library:
Reset your ears, stop complicating your audio enjoyment, BUY Quarks DSP, appreciate your music even more.

Final Words
Quarks DSP is the gateway in drinking a distilled water in the sea of toxicating beverages.
Clean, Transparent, and Pure.
An unconventional budget endgame.

Hello, how are you doing? Are you curious about this TWS, are you having a hard time deciding if it's the right TWS for you, or maybe you want more opinion about the VXS? Maybe my review can help you? What do you think?


Disclaimer…

• First, I’d like to thank KZ-san for providing me with a review unit of VXS. I am not obliged to say or biasly promote this IEM, statements written in this review are within my own experience and enjoyment with the VXS and nothing else.
• Please and oh please read other reviews of the VXS, and consider this blob of text as another reference to solidify your splurging decisions.
• YOUR MILEAGE WILL ALWAYS VARY, HOWEVER IF YOU ARE LISTENING TO A LIBRARY LIKE MINE. CHANCES ARE YOU MIGHT ALSO HAVE THE SAME EXPERIENCE AS ME.

Unlike my IEM reviews, I will not only talk about the sound in this review but also the features that the VXS can offer. Build quality, battery life and other features like gaming mode will be analyzed. This will be a long-ish review so buckle up.


Don’t want to read this full review? Here’s the TLDR
Non Audio Shorts:

VXS has an average build quality, it's all plastic like all other cheap TWS. Battery life is fantastic and the buds alone can play music up to 2-3 hrs, the case can extend the life of the buds by around 2 days. Connectivity is also flawless and I didn't encounter any issues with my almost 2 months of usage of them. The connection also remains stable within 10 m of distance, that bluetooth 5.0 really did the thing to stabilize the connection. Gaming mode or low latency mode is also fantastic. There is still a bit of delay compared to wired but the delay with the gunshots with FPS games is almost unnoticeable, I can also hear the footsteps quite clearly.

Click to expand...

Audio Shorts:

I'm speechless really, the tuning isn't KZ at all. The sound is soft, analogish, extended and thumpy. It is really addicting the longer I listen to it. The bass is really good, I might even say that it's better than their recent IEM releases (Lyra, ESX, EDA Bal). It's clean and has proper slam and rumble while making the lower midrange spotless and free of any bloat. Midrange is also safe and there's no aggressiveness to all vocals, it's just lush and smooth, though a bit boxy in some tracks. The treble also avoids harshness while having proper extension making the harmonics of all instruments easily audible. Soundstage too is wider than average with good depth. Detail retrieval, resolution and layering however are mediocre.

If KZ can do this tuning but with better drivers, they literally have an endgame material here ready to fight the big guns.

Click to expand...

What equipment did I use to listen to the VXS?

• A Generic Android Phone (Samsung Galaxy Note 9 to be exact)
• Stock Tips
• Yeap that's it.

Build and Accessories

• The case is okay, good build, good snap, and dense enough to feel premium. However the glass that shows the TWS is too easy to scratch, like I literally just put the case on my bag and it already has 3 major scratches… it’s making me regret removing the protective plastic layer out of the box. If you decide to buy them don’t remove the plastic protector.
• Just my one cents, I think the VXS will look better without the glass, like making it all black like their old TWS. Not gonna lie the case looks like an IEM funeral..haha
• The TWS itself is dense enough however it has this plasticky feel to them specially the touch panel. The material though makes the VXS lightweight and easy to wear for a long period of time, almost like I’m not wearing anything at all.
• For people who are worried that VXS may fall in their cases, don’t worry, the magnet is very strong.I tried shaking them rigorously and the case didn’t open at all. The TWS is also easy to position in their cases due to the strong magnets.
• Mediocre accessories, like KZ please just provide proper packaging with your current releases, like we are tired of this white box with nothing but the product itself, atleast make some effort here..the tips are generic as it can be and the inclusions are nothing special.

Battery Life
The table below shows my 1 week usage of them.

The VXS with case can last me 4 days of average use, with almost 3-4 hrs of use per day. The standby battery life of the VXS is amazing really, after my week of testing I left them uncharged for 1 week and when I tried it, the case still has battery left to it (in red status), crazy..haha..Really reminds me of their T10 headphones and it's effortless 1 week battery life.

Gaming/Low Latency Mode

• To activate low latency mode, the touch panel needs to be tapped three times, wait until it says that you are in high performance mode.
• There’s a bit of delay in some games, for example Genshin Impact, combat voice lines are actually a bit delayed (maybe around 1-2 ms of delay) but tolerable in most parts. With FPS like ROS, the gunshots are actually audible and within a short time interval, but you can encounter a bit of delay when the gunshots are far away from you.

Bluetooth Connectivity

• The connection is still stable around 10 m, with walls and other objects blocking its way. Farther than that VXS starts to disconnect but returns as soon as I get near the 10 m zone.
• The connection is also free of any hiccups or jitter.

Ease of Use

• The charging port is USB-C so yeah, modern ports for the win.
• You can pause, skip or turn off the TWS using the dual ridges on the shell of the VXS. One tap to pause the music, two taps to skip, three taps to activate high performance mode, hold to turn on or off.
• The touch panel is touchy, like my music starts to pause just with a light touch, like I always accidentally skips to the next track just by holding the TWS with my hand. I think this can be improved by implementing a physical button instead, not that it's bad, the touch panel is responsive (too responsive I might say), it's just that it's kinda annoying to use sometimes since you need to make sure that you're not touching the face plate in any way.
• Again, like the KZ T10, this TWS is lacking app support, other players in the TWS market already included an app with their TWS. I think having an app makes this more enticing to common folks. Having an app also makes this TWS more EQ friendly and power user friendly. Flexibility is always a good thing isn’t it?
• There should be no issues with comfort when using VXS, it's pretty light in the ears and I didn’t experience any physical fatigue when wearing them. The tips are also comfortable and soft, but tip rolling is somehow hard since you can’t use aftermarket tips like Kbear07 (TWS specialized eartips are okay though), since the TWS cannot be inserted properly in the case.
• APTX support, yess, it's the adaptive version too. No jitters and I can’t detect audio degradation when using the VXS. More on the sound later..

Let us talk about the sound..
Thy Frequency Spectrum


Bass: Fun, Clean and Spotless
The best part of this IEM, its thumpy and punchy yet remains tight and fast. There’s literally no bloat in the lower midrange, I can feel the rumble and slam but the lower mids remain flat and uncolored. It feels like there’s a separated subwoofer everytime the bass on most of my track kicks in. The bass has this huge presence, it sounds like it will overtake the midrange and treble but instead immediately glides subduing itself avoiding bloat and giving space to lower pitched vocals. The drum kicks feel very impactful, I can feel them not just hear them, bass guitar riffs are easy to catch, same with drums sticking. I really adore the bass response on these…I must even say that VXS has the best bass response I heard from KZ so far, overtaking the ESX. There’s also audible textures and definition with the bass but not on the level of RS1.

If I have to really nitpick here, the bass is not properly layered like the RS1 or AS16 Pro. Which is I think justifiable since this is just a one composite DD.

Hey KZ-san !
“Didn’t expect this bass response on a TWS, amazing job really, please can you apply this bass response to your upcoming hybrids.”

Regards,

One of the people who wants to see you improve..

Click to expand...

Midrange: Smooth-ish Reverie
Lush and analog, a bit recessed but doesn’t sound bloated or muddy at all, male vocals sounded accurate, while female vocals lack a bit of energy. However the lack of energy really helps with hours of fatigue free listening. Actually there’s a bit of specific lushness with female vocals like the EDA Bal with VXS, I can actually feel the emotion when listening to my Nagi Yanagi tracks (entirely opposite of SalZero if you have them). There’s some tracks where female vocals are a bit boxy but that usually happens when the singer is hitting the high notes, otherwise it's pretty likeable and lush in most of my tracks. Instrument fundamentals are also properly weighted kinda like the Lyra but a bit leaner due to the subdued midbass.

Treble: Harshless Extension
Can’t find any cons in the treble really, KZ did a really nice job of removing harshness and retaining treble air. Harmonics and overtones are well represented in all of my tracks, there’s no missing info like what I experienced with Shimin Li. I didn’t also hear any bluntness when guitars, pianos and violins were playing (except for very complex tracks); they are actually rendered quite well. The treble response also enabled me to listen to the VXS for 4 hours straight..haha..if you think that VXS has the KZ edge, think again.. This is entirely a different treble approach by KZ. As I said earlier this isn’t a typical KZ tuned IEM, this is actually very reminiscent of some analog sounding IEMs like Heart Mirror.


Technicalities (Resolution, Soundstage, Staging, Coherency)

• Soundstage is wider than average, yeap wider than EDA Balanced and ESX, but it's lacking in the height department.
• Staging is alright, very good for slow tracks, in some complex tracks however, the position of instruments are hard to track. Bass is also placed at the left and right side instead of at the back of my head.
• Resolution is subpar, I think Lyra has better resolution when compared. Micro-nuances are most of the time hard to catch even with the excellent tuning.
• Detail retrieval is also average at best, layering is non-existent; it feels like there’s a fog in each instrument, they are not transparent as I prefer them to be.
• Driver speed is average, congestion occurs with very complex tracks, specially the bass starts to lose its tightness and control.
• Coherency is excellent, of course it's a single DD…haha.. But what I wanted to point out here is how the bass remains connected to the rest of the spectrum even if it has a harman like bass-shelf. The transition of bass-mids-treble is very smooth and very hard to fault.

FR-kun Time!


Music Analysis

While writing this section, I am listening thoroughly to the tracks that are mentioned, there will be sometimes where I will say coped statements and will be too lazy to explain anything.

Click to expand...

1. Light Prayer by Nagi Yanagi
Plain amazing with VXS, that drums maan so thumpy yet clean at the same time. I can also follow the bass riffs and drums sticking without any effort at all. The fundamentals of guitars, cymbals and bass guitars are properly represented as well, the said instruments aren’t muffled at all even with the thumpy bass response. The sound stage also has this studio feel similar to CCA Lyra but with bass properly separated on the soundstage. Nagi's voice is a bit boxy and lacking the sparkle but it has this lushness that I kept on coming back, its kinda addicting to be honest, this track has been on repeat for days due to that..haha

Replay Rating: Excellent

Click to expand...

2. Eironeia by mamenoi feat Nagi Yanagi
Surprisingly, the soundstage here is wider than my RS1, Nagi’s voice at the start feels very emotive and spot on. The atmospheric isn’t that impactful or immersive like the Lyra, but the separation of instruments makes up for it. Moreover the bass drop at 1:44 arghh, so clean and textured I really adore this bass response. Almost all the bass drop of this track makes my ears go into -gasm mode with VXS, just beautiful man, nothing to say really. It isn’t that detailed like my IEMs but man that specialty with the bass just keeps pulling me in.haha

Replay Rating: Excellent

Click to expand...

3. Paprika by Kenshi Yonezu
The immersion of this track with the VXS is unreal man, the bass drops, Kenshi voice, the atmospherics swaying back and forth around my headspace, the wide soundscape..so good. The chorus literally flexes..ahemm..I mean highlights how the bass rumbles and slams while the instruments remain clean and tranparent in the background. The replay of this track is more mesmerizing to me than the EDA Balanced and Lyra, just pure enjoyment here.

Replay Rating: Beautiful

Click to expand...

4. Growing Up by Macklemore feat Ed Sheeran
Full on studio sound here we go..Macklemore voice is lush and well articulated here. The drums sticking and guitars in the background are just replayed in harmony while there’s tasteful slam and rumble teasing my ears. I would like more energy with Ed Sheeran voice in the chorus, but how the VXS renders this track is just full on studio sound..haha..? helpmm.

Replay Rating: Beautiful

Click to expand...

Comparison

This comparative analysis is highly biased on my library, so please don’t take this as a unified guide on what should you buy or not.

Click to expand...

VXS vs EDA Balanced
VXS has a more satisfying bass shelf, an enjoyable organic and fatigue free sound, wider soundstage. EDA Balanced sounds more energetic, digitalish, detailed and has better sparkly female vocals. VXS wins for me, sorry EDA Bal Cult.

VXS vs Lyra (Modded)
VXS and Lyra actually have the same analog/studio-ish approach to sound with VXS secretly holding this specialty with bass response. VXS wins..but I still adore how the Lyra sounds, especially if I want more details with my music, but for pure enjoyment I’ll take the VXS anytime.

VXS vs Heart Mirror
Heart Mirror has more details, sounds airier, spacious, bass shy. VXS flexes its bass response while retaining the quality of its midrange and treble, while also having this spacious approach to music. Sorry Heart Mirror simps but I’ll give the win to VXS, I need the bass man, my library needs it.

VXS vs RS1 (Modded)
No contest..haha..RS1 takes the VXS formula, twists it, flexes it back and forth, until the presence of VXS disappears. RS1 has better resolution, staging, bass response, vocals, treble, sounds more realistic. VXS only wins here is the bass shelf (I really love that bass shelf) but all in all areas RS1 takes the win.

Eartips Rolling

I don't actually have a proper TWS eartips to try with the VXS, and all eartips that I have is incomptable with the case..soo yeah stock eartips will do the job.

Click to expand...

Equalization
Equalize this IEM? No no no..hahaha..this is KZ peak tuning no need to adjust anything.

Recommend Tracks/Genres
All tracks except Classical and Very Complex Tracks

Non-affliated Shop Links:
https://www.kztws.com/products/kz-vxs

Overall Rating
S- (Yes S- just below the RS1, this is peak KZ tuning, changed my mind.)
Highly Recommended~~
(Whenever I make my coworkers try this IEM they are always saying "is this 8D music?", "the bass is so separated" haha..)
My Ranking Listo!
Asterhythmist

Final Words
This took me over 2 months to review due to how good they are I just can't remove them in my ears, really. And even if I already have a very technically capable RS1, I'm still seeking for that VXS tuning, that's how good it is. Call me a shill, but this is legit amazing, I just hope that KZ can apply this to their hybrids.

Suggestions for the Next Releases

• App Support
• More understated look, the case looks better without the glass part in my opinion.
• Maybe apply the tuning in a Hybrid?
• Make the feel more premium, the case more snappier.
• KZ-san you already have an excellent tuning here, just improve the tech a bit more.

Summary | Too Long Don't Want to Read

First full BA IEM from KZ that has the DNA of their recent tuning work which aims to reduce treble aggressiveness and maintain a balance in the whole frequency spectrum. AS16 Pro actually has two signatures if you are aware of the impedance issue, without the impedance adapter it is a midcentric IEM, with the 30 Ohm impedance adapter it is U-Shaped or specifically Diffuse Field with significant bass boost (like the Tanchjim Tanya or SSP). Without the impedance adapter, vocals with the AS16 Pro sound intimate and in your face, it can be intimidating or wonky especially with female vocals. Lower treble is also masked by the hump at 1kHz making some instruments lack the presence on the soundscape (e.g piano, string instruments). With impedance adapter, hump at 1kHz is removed, making vocals to be placed far away from the listener, making the lower treble more audible adding presence to the instruments stated before. Bass with and without the impedance adapter is actually soft on the attack and rumble is almost inaudible even if the graphs show the opposite, there’s actually no slam to the bass and punch is like a feather touching you. However, the lack of any bass punch, makes drums and bass guitar highly transparent on the soundscape, like there’s no boundary withthose two instruments (they feel real), its literally in the front of my headspace without any coloration whatsoever.Technicalities punches way above its price range, detail retrieval, staging and layering is top notch, but soundstage is lacking a bit in wideness.

Click to expand...

Disclaimer

• I am salty and I only praise KZ IEMs, you might even call me a shill..haha..you shouldn't trust anything I'm saying here, you definitely should not read this review...why are you still reading this?..ooohh--kay..weird...Anyways back to the serious stuff...since you are still reading this, here's my review, join me cope this IEM.
• I reviewed the AS16 Pro with a 30-ohm adapter since it’s my preferred sound signature some notes will be added for stock form. I have also assessed the AS16 Pro for over 2 weeks to remove any biases from the "honeymoon period" of the said IEM.
• This review is highly biased towards my taste in music and my target sound signature. Please confirm first if we have the same library, if not skip this review and kindly check other reviews.
• YOUR MILEAGE MAY ALWAYS VARY.
• My unit is a review sample given generously by KZ, thanks to them I can continue reviewing IEMs..haha...I will be neutral as much as possible in this review, but as always bias statements will be unavoidable, and I highly recommend checking out other reviews and only making this long blob of text as a reference.
• If you have more questions about this IEM, kindly visit the official KZ Discord (I am always online there..haha) and let’s have a talk.

Sources Used

• CX-31993 “Main Source”
• Avani (ALC-5686)
• Abigail (CX-31993)
• LG V20
• Xiaom

Thy Frequency Spectrum

Truth to be told, AS16 Pro isn’t my preferred tuning at all, as I like more energy to the strings and pianos, and I will take the EDA Balanced or Lyra any day when it comes to tuning. But what boggled me with this IEM is how mellow it sounds (like I don’t know if this is KZ anymore, cause it doesn’t have the KZ edge/bite/aggressiveness). This IEM is created for relax listening in mind, I can’t actually detect any harsh peaks or enthusiastic bass with this IEM (like the CA10), it’s just smooth and linear, they sound amazing for Jazz and Bossa Nova, but its lacking the dynamics and fun factor to some of my JPOP and western tracks.

Click to expand...

Bass: Superbly Realistic, But Where’s the Slam?
Realistic and accurate. Nothing to describe it really, it isn’t big or punchy like the ESX. The graph will suggest that it will be bassy, but actually the bass sounds soft and lacking the slam. Bassheads may look at other IEMs if they want the slam. AS16 Pro bass also gears towards realism and speed, it isn’t exaggerated in any way and is just there to support what instrument needed it. Like if the drums need the bass it will cleanly provide it without any boundary, delay, or coloration at all. It’s really hard to describe it, it literally feels like the drummer/bass guitarist is around my headspace, it feels like I’m listening to a real performance not just a speaker.

All I can say is the bass response of the AS16 Pro is not tuned to provide fun but to provide detail and accuracy to lower pitched instruments. You know what other thing is amazing with the AS16 Pro? How it layers the bass, it literally has a specific bubble on the soundstage and never influences the midrange in any way, every time I listen to it; the bass is just at the back of my head, waiting for the cue.

Without Impedance Adapter: The same as above, but bass quantity may be perceived as lesser due to the midrange emphasis.

Click to expand...

Midrange: Properly Nuanced, Articulated and Realistic....What?!
Ahmm, what is this KZ? Is this a mistake? Haha.. Like the midrange of this is just plain amazing. All vocals sounded so accurate and true to life (it’s quite hypnotizing in some tracks). Both male and female vocals feel like they are in a center stage of a theater (plain beating all of my IEMs when it comes to vocal presentation and staging). Like what is this midrange response, it’s like a mix of Tanya (which is my vocal benchmark btw) and SeeAudio Yume. Like its lush, well weighted yet very detailed but on another level…ahmm..Plus instrument fundamentals sounds accurate and has this realistic tone to them, like this IEM, has no rights to sound this accurate in the midrange and for the price it's asking. What is even happening, can someone explain it to me.

Without Impedance Adapter: Vocals are more intimate, kinda scary sometimes to be honest, because singers sounded so close to me. Maybe perceived as harsh in some tracks due to how “in your face” the higher pitched vocals are. It is also not true to life/theater-like sounding compared with the impedance adapter.

Click to expand...

Treble: Mellow and Properly Extended, Just Lacking a Bit of Presence
Organic, safe, non-offensive and mellow. Instruments presence is tamed down to a significant amount compared to their recent IEMs, like AS16 Pro has the softest treble response I heard from KZ so far. It is not my preferred treble response since I like more presence to strings but highly works if you are listening to AS16 Pro for a long period of time.

I literally experience zero fatigue even with hours of usage with AS16 Pro (comparing to EDA Balanced, CRA+ and EDXU). Treble also retains linearity up to the upper treble and harmonics are well executed, it isn’t in overdrive like the Salnotes Zero/EDXU/CRA, so expect no artificial detail retrieval with the AS16 Pro, just pure realism. Cymbals are accurate and have proper initial attack and decay on the soundscape, it does not sound ring-y or incomplete like SalZero/Tanya, there’s no 8kHz peak actually (graphs lords rejoice. Haha)

Without Impedance Adapter: Lower treble is more subdued due to the masking of 1kHz hump, upper treble remains the same.

Click to expand...

Technicalities

• Decay and attack of notes are on the fast side, there’s literally no boundary between the listener and the instrument (occurs whenever I listen to Jazz/World Music/Bossa Nova with the AS16 Pro.
• Soundstage has excellent height and depth, average width. It highly mimics a small theater or studio depending on the track (mainly has a U-Shaped projection), it is also not exaggerated like the EDXU or EDA Balanced. Room reverbs and spatial cues are also properly represented. Beats the OG Yume when it comes to soundstage presentation.
• Staging is highly accurate and it is easy to pinpoint instruments, all instruments have specific bubbles on the soundstage. And is layered beautifully like jenga blocks, I can literally separate all instrument like layers in Photoshop.
• Resolution is excellent. It is far cry from any DD IEM I have tried, it is like I’m inside the music rather than watching it in a certain medium, it’s a mesmerizing experience really.
• There’s literally no congestion in any tracks I throw at it, from Bossa Nova to Electronica. Everything is just layered and separated beautifully. There’s a reason why the reviews below me praise it highly. It is legit.
• Coherency between the 8 BAs are excellent. However BA timbre is still noticeable in some tracks (there are some occasions where guitars sounded metallic) but not that catastrophic like the CA10).
• Macrodynamics is lacking for my library (oomph/weight of notes), not really suitable for tracks that need the aggressiveness, but microdynamics are excellently done. AS16 Pro is able to articulate little nuances in most instruments very well. I must even say that it is miles ahead compared to the midtier IEMs I have tried (e.g Yume Midnight).

FR-kun Time!


Music Analysis

While writing this section, I am listening thoroughly to the tracks that are mentioned, there will be sometimes where I will say coped statements and will be too lazy to explain anything.

Click to expand...

1. Hamu Test “Multiple tracks arranged by Hamu” (Played in HibyMusic)

The tracks in this section, will test the IEM ability to naturally replay and stage musical instruments like piano, guitar, violin and drums. This section will also test imaging, detail retrieval and separation. Most of the tracks here also hates V-shaped IEMs.

Click to expand...

AMAZZIINGGG ARRRRGHHHHH. What is this realism like what the…this is on another level like, I never thought that I could listen to Bossa Nova like this, it’s just too real and open. Like this is what I live for as a sound enthusiast..I wanna cry..this is plain beautiful.

No, no, no, you don’t need to know my critical analysis with these tracks, if you listen to Bossa Nova/Jazz/Blue etc. just buy it, like legit just buy it, experience the realism and pack up your things, quit any audio groups/forums, this is already end game for these type of tracks….haha

Replay Rating: Xtra Beautiful / Listening Redefined / Current Benchmark for these types of tracks.

2. Light Prayer by Nagi Yanagi (Played in HibyMusic)

Female Vocals, Driver Resolvability/Speed, Soundstage, Midrange Nuances

Click to expand...

Yoow, the speed of this track is amaze balls with AS16 Pro, bass riffs is replayed effortlessly, like AS16 Pro didn't even try, add Nagi's lush and angelic voice that is full of nuances and clarity, what the…. The soundstage too, the drums are literally at the back of my head, while Nagi is in the center stage of a U-shaped theatre, guitars and piano are also contained in a specific space on the soundscape, like what the duck is this replay, I'm speechless..haha.

Replay Rating: X-Beautiful

3. Decollete by Kenshin Yonezu (Played in HibyMusic)

Male Vocals, Midrange Resolvability, Dynamics, Separation

Click to expand...

Are there no tracks that sound bad with AS16 Pro, like what is this, again? The staging and layering of instruments in this track is just superb. It makes me appreciate Kenshi’s mastering and composition skills, like the resolution of this track with AS16 Pro is just on full throttle, no IEM I have tried recently sounded like this. Everything from Kenshi’s voice up to the little sparkles in the background sound euphonic yet realistic. If I really have to nitpick I would like more oomph to the bass, but overall, an excellent replay by AS16 Pro.

Replay Rating: Excellent

4. Link (Color Palette Live) by Nagi Yanagi (Played in Youtube)

Female Vocals, Staging, Layering, Timbre, Realism Factor

Click to expand...

Too real man, like what the, it’s too real, you can't do this AS16 Pro, like NOO stop. Why are you making me feel like I'm in the concert hall with Nagi, why are the piano, maracas, triangle, violins, and drums sounds so real? Bruh, do I deserve this beautiful rendition, I didn't know that this track can be replayed like this.

Please if you have the AS16 Pro, please listen to this track, fudging amazing.

Replay Rating: X-Beautiful | Listening Redefined

5. Left-Right Confusion by Yorushika (Played in Tidal)

Female Vocals, Articulation, Bass Response, Separation, Soundstage

Click to expand...

What the f…what is this..From Sui’s voice to the guitars they all sound realistic, better than any IEM I have tried so far. The bass response is also transparent and has its own bubble on the soundscape, actually all instruments have this sort of bubble (specific space on the soundscape).

Plain eargasmic and mesmerizing..haha…it feels like I’m watching n-buna and Suis doing their thing in a U-shaped theater, the instruments, guitars, piano, drums feel so real and natural with full on resolution to boot. Ahmmm. Do you need timestamps? Haha..cause all part of this track is just too good with AS16 Pro, can’t really explain further…haha..sorry?

Replay Rating: X-Beautiful

6. Cyberangel by Hanser (Honkai Impact 3 OST)

Female Vocals, Midrange Forwardness, Sibilance Test, Bass Response

Click to expand...

00:17 sounds on the edge with most of my gear; however AS16 Pro replays it with smoothness and softness. Drums are also quite realistic and stay strictly at the back of my head. Hanser’s voice with this track is quite hypnotic…her voice is fully articulated and nuances are excellently replayed (there's details in her voice that I didn't hear with my current IEMs). All instruments also have their own bubbles on the soundscape from bass guitars to synthesizer. I can pretty much pinpoint all of them. Overall it’s a bizarre yet mesmerizing listening experience.

Replay Rating: Beautiful

7. Imperial Girl covered by Ito Kashitaro (Played in HibyMusic)

Male Vocals, Resolution, Drums and Bass Realism Check, Harshness Test

Click to expand...

Kashi-san voice is a little on the edge with AS16 Pro. However, again the staging, it’s so good from Ito's voice to the drums at the distance they have bubbles on the soundscape that I can easily locate and focus on. However, what I don't like is how Ito's voice is too forward with AS16 Pro, especially at the chorus part his voice is quite intimidating and nearing the shout territory. This track is also lacking the bass oomph that I really enjoy with IEMs like CRA+. But the realism of drums in this track is on another level, can't really comment on it.

Replay Rating: Average

Comparison

This comparative analysis is highly biased on my library, so please don’t take this as a unified guide on what should you buy or not.

Click to expand...

AS16 Pro vs EDA Balanced
EDA Balanced replays my library with energy, sparkle, dynamics and a bit artificial sounding when compared, while AS16 Pro plays my library with realism, organicness and warmth. Staging, layering, detail retrieval is better on AS16 Pro while EDA Balanced has an average tech but a more pleasing tuning for my ears..AS16 Pro sounds like you’re in the music while EDA Balanced sounds like a speaker setup in a hallway..Vocals are lusher with EDA Balanced but are accurate and positioned correctly with AS16 Pro. Can’t really choose between the two, I’m using the EDA Balanced whenever I want to listen to some pop tracks and while traveling, while AS16 Pro is for my home setup and whenever I want to indulge in that realism with my music. Tie

AS16 Pro vs ESX
AS16 Pro is more relaxed, accurate and organic sounding. ESX is grander, energetic, dynamic, and more fun. AS16 Pro has better soundstage presentation, while ESX is narrower and more in your head. Details are forefront with ESX, while with AS16 Pro you need to focus on a certain instrument to hear the little nuances. Vocals are more forward and lush with AS16 Pro, while ESX is a bit recessed with the vocals. Dynamics still goes with ESX and the overall wake up factor, AS16 Pro is mellow and comforting in comparison.
Tie. One for critical listening and one for whenever I want to wake up and jam with my music.

AS16 Pro vs Lyra
Think of it like this, take the Lyra organic signature, add a BA Tech to it, tadah AS16 Pro…AS16 Pro is the master of staging and layering at the price they are asking. AS16 Pro has better detail retrieval, less congestion, superb separation, and a theater like soundstage. Truer to life. However, it has tonal flaws like apparent lack of presence with strings, lack of macrodynamics to the sound. Lyra on the other hand boasts its complete and organic sound signature, and DD timbre. AS16 Pro wins.

AS16 Pro vs CA10
I don’t even want to compare these two..haha.. CA10 sounds plain trash compared to AS16 Pro, like CA10 is too bloated and harsh. AS16 Pro triumphs the CA10 in any way possible. It isn't even funny. AS16 Pro wins.

AS16 Pro vs Yume Midnight
There’s still this transducer barrier with Yume Midnight, and is too flat sounding for my ears. It has a wider soundstage than AS16 Pro, but nowhere near the layering and staging of AS16 Pro. Vocals are also more emotive with AS16 Pro, Yume Midnight sounds alright with the vocals nothing special. Bass is more dynamic with Yume Midnight, while AS16 Pro lacks the punch and oomph with the bass. Treble is more extended with AS16 Pro, making cymbals crash full and bodied compared to Yume Midnight. AS16 Pro makes me feel like I’m in the concert, while Yume Midnight makes me feel like I’m listening to a 5.1 Speaker setup.

Since AS16 Pro plays my Jazz, Live and Bossa Nova tracks with full on realism. AS16 Pro takes the win this time.

AS16 Pro vs CA16 Pro
CA16 Pro is more digital/artificial sounding, bassier, less technical, has recessed midrange, also brighter than AS16 Pro. AS16 Pro approaches music with realism in mind, it is miles ahead when it comes to technicalities and has a more pleasant/non-offensive tuning than CA16 Pro. AS16 Pro wins.

Eartips Rolling

Aside from the excellent sound performance of AS16 Pro, I have some nitpicks with it, like the big nozzle and the gigantic shell it has. It is plain uncomfortable for my ears, my default recommendable tip isn’t even working with AS16 Pro. And I am having physical fatigue with them whenever I’m using them for travel. There’s also an uncomfortable suction whenever they are in my ears, like I need to open my mouth just to insert and remove them properly.

Take note of the big nozzle if ever you are gonna buy them, the nozzle is big, 1.5x bigger than ZEX Pro. If you have small ears you might need triangular-ish shaped eartips (e.g Spinfits) to fit them properly.

Click to expand...

1. Kbear KB07
Nope, uncomfortable, didn’t achieve proper seal.

2. Stock Starline Tips
Good, but the internal pressure of this tips when they are in my ears is much greater than the tips after this, it is still uncomfortable to me. For the sound, it’s alright, no boost in any frequency whatsoever or any unnecessary resonances that may destroy AS16 Pro sound. AS16 Pro sounds flat with these tips to be honest.

3. Sony EP-EX11 Tips
Recommended, like the 2nd tips but less internal pressure more comfortable too.

4. SalZero Stock Pink Tips
Yes, more comfortable than the Sonys but this is much pricier since you can only get this tips alongside an overhyped IEM. Lower treble is a bit boosted with these tips, and bass quantity rises a bit.

5. Spinfits CP145/CP100
Recommended, will make the AS16 Pro midrange a bit recessed, but is the most comfortable tips I’ve tried, the internal pressure issue is gone with these tips. Moreover, the soundstage is a bit taller with these eartips, specifically with CP145.

6. Generic Foam Tips
Sadly, I can't fit them into my ears..

7. BGVP W01
Can’t achieve proper seal with them, bass is gone.

Equalization
No, it doesn’t need it . Just enjoy the realism.

Tested Synergies
Reverie into Realism
AS16 Pro, Spinfits CP145 Tips, CX-31993
Smoothest and most organic synergy I have achieved, beats the timbre and staging of some midtier IEMs I have tried (e.g Yume and Yume Midnight). Vocals are also more holographic and instruments are more weighted with this synergy. Basically the tips add some quantity to the lower treble while retaining the accurate midrange, while CX-31993 refines the signature a bit.

Enveloping and Mellow Approach
AS16 Pro, Sony EP-EX11 Tips, Avani
This synergy will add warmth to the realistic approach of AS16 Pro. It’s like a warm blanket on cold summer nights. Vocals are lusher and lower treble is a bit subdued compared to the first synergy. Detail retrieval is downgraded compared to the first synergy. Same bass response as the above.

Recommend Tracks/Genres
All tracks but excels with Acoustic/Jazz/Bossa Nova

“Not that good” Tracks
Some pop tracks that need the energy, some hip-hop and rap tracks.

Non-affliated Shop Links:
https://www.kztws.com/products/kz-as16-pro

Overall Rating
A+ (Current Top 2)
Highly Recommended~~
My Ranking Listo!
Asterhythmist

Final Words
Oh man, what a beautiful ride. This IEM isn’t allowing me to skip any songs in my library, like every song makes me locked in. If the recent reviews are hyping this IEM to oblivion, their impressions are actually correct. AS16 Pro is offering a sound that is beyond its price range, it isn’t a killer by any means but a flavor that should sit above $100 by default.

The thing that is a bummer with this IEM is you need an impedance adapter to correct its tuning, actually I find it a feature..haha..cause you actually have two different signatures in hand, midcentric or U-shaped. If you don’t like the stock midcentric approach then just buy a $5 30 Ohm impedance and you have yourself a U-shaped IEM. As far as I’m seeing it, some people also liked the mid centric approach while others find it wonky, it highly depends on what you are listening or sound preferences.

Suggestions for the Next Releases

• Reduce the size of the shell and the nozzle. Pls consider us folks who hab small ears. This IEM will be my dailies if it has the fit of ZEX Pro.
• Add a magnetostat to handle the air frequencies (With my experience with ZEX and ZES, KZ magnetostat driver handles the upper treble really well). Adding some extra sparkle will make the AS16 Pro go into another level.
• EDA/DQ6S DD as bass driver to add oomph and dynamics to the sound.
• Better set of eartips (inclusion of wide bores, narrow bores, or foam tips will be nice) even if the cost will go up a bit.
• A more generous or proper packaging please.

Before you read this review
I’ve used the Lyra with Sony EPEX-11 to subdue the induced treble harshness that the stock tips have, stock tips are still viable but as always, I don’t recommend them that much, especially since they somehow make the 4-5 kHz unrefined sounding. I have also used the Lyra with CX-31993 as my main source, since recent KZ IEMs tend to synergies with it well.


Summary
Third KZ/CCA IEM that aims to sound as organic or natural as it can (the first is DQ6S, second is CRA+). Lyra tracks the Harman Target midrange and treble to provide accurate tone and clarity to most instruments. The proper pinna rise contributes to the proper vocal positioning (as in dead center placement), most vocals are forward and has a clean presentation on the soundscape, it is not shrill or shouty by any means. The bass quantity is almost the same as the EDA Balanced, but has more definition and quite soft on the attack compared to the quick and tight bass response of the later. Treble response is on the relaxed side, but some people who are sensitive to 4.5 kHz or the sibilance region may find it too hot for their taste, additionally there is an 8kHz peak compensated with a 12 kHz peak to make the previous peak not harsh or too intrusive in the whole frequency response (e.g ZEX Pro), the said treble characteristic also gives life and sustained decay to cymbals, some people specially who are accustomed to perfect linear FR sets may find the cymbals unrefined in some tracks (this is not an issue for most people, just for selected individuals who have an “acquired taste”). Technicalities are almost the same as the ESX but a bit narrow on the soundstage and a bit soft on the dynamics. The driver here are also more resolving (notes may be perceived as layered and realistic on the attack and decay at times) than EDA Balanced or CRA+, truth to be told it is like a baby AS16 Pro when it comes to technicalities.

Disclaimer

• Take my review with a large scoop of salt and always cross reference.
• As always, I like to thank KZ/CCA for providing me a review unit of the CCA Lyra.
• I will analyze the CCA Lyra with references to my Dynamic Realist (EDA Blanced) and the most expensive set that I’ve tried so far (Yume Midnight).
• This review will somehow be biased towards my taste in music and my target sound signature.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.
• Please check "My Specific Library", if my library does not match yours, please consider reading other reviews. Thanks
• If you have more questions about this IEM, kindly visit the official KZ Discord and let’s have a talk there.

Equipment

• OG CX-31993 “Main Source”
• Avani (ALC-5686)
• Abigail (CX-31993)
• LG V20
• Xiaomi Mi 4

Thy Frequency Spectrum

“Lyra is shaped like Harp, Vega is one of the brightest star from Lyra. Lyra creates a sound that is ethereal, built around poetic tales of unrequited love” - CCA?

If you are confused by that statement, and so am I, we are on the same boat here haha. All I can say is what Lyra made me experience throughout these past weeks, is its natural and organic replay of instruments. I almost mistaken it to be a SeeAudio Yume in terms of overall sound signature.

Click to expand...

Bass: 8/10
Textured, well resolved and clean but lacks the punch, slam, depth and quantity (an unconventional approach here by KZ, basshead may go with the ESX for that grand bass). Midbass bleeds a bit on the midrange to give lushness to most instruments and lower pitched vocals. The bass here remains at the back and rarely presents itself forward (referencing to Shimin Li, which is weird cause the bass on that IEM is clean but it is forward on the soundscape). Bass in the Lyra is soft on the attack and decay but there are textures that can be heard as compared to EDA Balanced. Bass riffs can be followed but may not be noticeable or transparent at times. Overall, a quite satisfying bass response by Lyra, some neutral heads may like this approach by KZ. Also if you have the ESX, this is quite the antithesis of it, you may want to take this into consideration if you are considering a sidegrade.

Midrange 7.8/10
Higher pitched vocals may be perceived shouty specially with stock tips. With aftermarket tips (e.g Sony EP-EX11), the said vocals types show its full clarity while having this enticing lushness that is very well suited for JPOP, KPOP and female artist dominant library. The vocal forwardness is also in the middle ground here, singers appear dead center within my headspace and isn’t intimidating or dominating my whole music perception, all instruments also still have this place around the vocals. If you want your vocals accurate and lush, Lyra is a very good budget option for it. As for instruments fundamentals, all I can say is they are accurate and true to life, there’s no warm coloration or extra bite to most instruments. Wind, string, and percussions are just laid on the single plain, without emphasis for a specific type of instrument
(aside from cymbals in some tracks). Truth to be told, this is not my preferred midrange response, and I much prefer EDA Balanced presentation (I like extra aggressiveness to pianos and string instruments). But since most instruments are well weighted and natural sounding, many people may like this approach.

Treble 8.5/10
Organic, safe and just right. I think this is the region where Lyra excels, from lower treble to upper treble the response is almost linear for my ears. Instrument harmonics are well audible and strings and percussions has proper definition to them. However, there’s a peak at 8kHz and a lower 12kHz peak after that (which I found acceptable), cymbals aren’t that intrusive in most of my tracks (however it may be a different story to some). To be honest, I quite like what they did here cause cymbals has this extended sustain to them which makes it more defined on the soundscape and also helps on detail retrieval. Moreover, the dip after the 12kHz, yeeesss…that dip atleast for my ears contribute to wider soundstage and proper placement of instruments on the soundscape. What may be a bummer here is some people may find the treble harsh because the peaks starts early but if you are somehow listening to a library like mine, you will like the Lyra approach here, it’s just nicely laid out and well extended.

Technicalities

• Decay and attack of notes are in the moderate side, some people may also call it organic/analog sounding. It doesn't have the digital, energetic or speedy nature that EDA Balanced or CRA has, highly resembles a CNT DD notes presentation.
• Soundstage has average width and depth, below average height. It highly mimics a small pub / small studio in most tracks, it isn't exaggerated like the ESX or EDA Balanced. It also may be lacking for people who are accustomed to hall/theatre like sounding sets.
• Staging is accurate and highly mimics Yume Midnight presentation, the vocals are dead center and instruments are placed at the left, right, back and front of my headspace, they also have a physical feel and enough separation on the soundscape.
• Resolvability is very good for the price. I must even say that it has better definition/resolution than EDA Balanced even if it has a warm tint to it, there are some times where some notes are layered with one another, kind of like how AS16 Pro boast that prowess.
• Congestion still occurs with complex tracks but aren't bad like BL-03. With complex tracks layers in the music starts to diminish however nuances are still audible and I can't detect any harshness even if the notes articulation is degraded. With slow tracks, though, Lyra sweeps it without any effort at all, it also mimics the layering of some midtier IEMs.

Music Analysis

While writing this section, I am listening thoroughly to the tracks that are mentioned, there will be sometimes where I will say coped statements and will be too lazy to explain anything, but yeah, this is the part I enjoy the most so let me indulge just a bit.

Click to expand...

1. Hamu Test “Multiple tracks arranged by Hamu” (Played in HibyMusic)

The tracks in this section, will test the IEM ability to naturally replay and stage musical instruments like piano, guitar, violin and drums. This section will also test imaging, detail retrieval and separation. Most of the tracks here also hates V-shaped IEMs.

Click to expand...

How can I explain this, tracks in this section sound very natural and studio like. They aren’t exaggerated or detailed sounding like EDA Balanced but the feel of instruments are very true to life and I can imagine all tracks in this section with physicality and position them clearly, the soundstage has ample amount of space too. It highly reminds me of Heart Mirror by a lot, this is how HM plays my Hamu tracks, organic but with treble boost to make some instruments pop out, however with Lyra they just sound flat, no instruments are overtaking another and no over sharpening is happening throughout this track selection. It is very flat for my ears; I think I would like more energy to the guitars and wind instruments but I’m nitpicking at this point. Don’t want to sound like a shill, but the replay of the tracks in this section is much better and more natural to my ears than the Tanya, Yume, and HM. To be honest it’s like I’m listening to the Yume Midnight again, but the resolution is a bit trimmed down.

Replay Rating: Beautiful

2. Eironeia by mamenoi feat. Nagi Yanagi (Played in HibyMusic)

Female Vocals, Driver Resolvability, Soundstage, Midrange Nuances, Separation

Click to expand...

Flat out amazing with Lyra, how the rustic sound effect at the start travels within my headspace is plain eargasmic, add the melodic beat that sounds eerie yet magical. As Nagi takes the stage at 00:15, Lyra still plays the eerie atmosphere of the song with finesse and openness, while Nagi’s voice starts to dominate my center space and sing with lushness and accurate tone. As the track get complex at 01:43, the bass thumps yet decays very fast and is positioned cleanly at the back of my head, the guitar and piano stays very transparent and timbre stays true to life. This track starts to get very complex after 02:00, with added synthesizer in the mix, fortunately Lyra handles it effortlessly and instruments are still placed on where they are on the soundscape. In conclusion, Lyra play this song so beautifully that it let me fall into reverie.

Replay Rating: Beautiful

3. Machigai Sagashi by Kenshin Yonezu (Played in HibyMusic)

Male Vocals, Midrange Resolvability, Guitars, Separation

Click to expand...

Yes, what can I say Lyra excels in most of my Japanese library. Another superb rendition with Lyra, the atmospherics, little nuances and staging are so satisfying that it makes me want to close my eyes and just relax with this track. It isn’t like the ESX where it is played with weight and grandness, no no no, it’s somehow flat sounding and boring as other may call it, but man the details, soundstage and timbre of most instruments are just accurate, I can almost imagine them physically around my headspace. The thing is I can’t really relate to what the other people are saying about harshness, it isn’t harsh at all for my ears, they can sound a bit on the edge specially at 03:09, but it isn’t ear piercing or bothering at all, I quite like it to be honest cause it adds this bite or energy to the sound even if the whole signature of Lyra leans toward flatness. But even with all this praise that I have, and even Kenshi’s voice sound sooo accurate with Lyra, I still want some fun and energy with his tracks, Lyra unfortunately doesn’t provide it, so I will stick with ESX with this. But not bad at all with Lyra.

Replay Rating: Excellent

4. Left-Right Confusion by Yorushika (Played in Tidal)

Female Vocals, Notes Articulation, Bass Response, Separation, Soundstage

Click to expand...

Waaahh..what is this..Sui’s voice the instruments sound so real what the. That bass response too, strong yet stays strictly at the back of my head, what is even happening…it sounds so eargasmic what the…it feels like I’m watching a band doing their thing in a pub, the instruments, guitars, piano, drums feel so physical and 3D, it still lacks the resolution yes (comparing to AS16 Pro), but the timbre is just so good. Do you need timestamps? Haha..cause all part of this track is just too good for me, can’t really explain it to be honest…haha..sorry?

Replay Rating: Beautiful

5. Prism by Nagi Yanagi (Played in HibyMusic)

Female Vocals, Midrange Forwardness, Detail Retrieval, Separation, Soundstage

Click to expand...

The guitars at the start feels very articulated, and as Nagi takes the stage at 00:17 the song atmosphere starts to open up and Nagi’s lush voice starts to dominate. My senses start to kick in making me realize that “fudge another magical track incoming”. This is not like the ESX, where the track is just messy and unrefined, Lyra is a different story altogether, vocals are forward, bass is subdued, all instruments are balanced and laid out well. Staging of Lyra with this track is just top notch to be honest almost approaching AS16 Pro territory. However, even if Lyra plays this track wonderfully, there still something that is bothering me. The chorus parts of this track make Nagi’s voice a bit on the edge, it is somehow nearing the shouty territory, but as always this can be mitigated with lower volumes, I just like this track at high volume cause it’s sounds beautiful..haha

Replay Rating: Excellent

Frequency Response Analysis


Comparison

This comparative analysis is highly biased on my library, so please don’t take this as a unified guide on what should you buy or not.

Click to expand...

Lyra vs EDA Balanced
My Dynamic Realist replays my library with energy, sparkle, dynamics and cleanliness, while Lyra plays my library with correctness, organicness and warmth. Staging is better on DR but its exaggerated compared to Lyra..EDA Balanced sounds digital while Lyra sounds analog..I quite adore how the two present my library, and I will use them depending on my mood, can't really choose a winner here to be honest. Tie

Lyra vs ESX
Lyra is more relaxed, more natural and organic sounding, more balanced. ESX is grandier, more energetic, more dynamic, and more fun. The two has the same soundstage presentation (with Lyra being a bit narrow), staging is also the same between the two, detail retrieval is a bit better with Lyra, vocals are more forward with Lyra...I..I quite love this two (DR, ESX and Lyra are my daily IEMs, they have the same amount of time in my ears), one for critical listening and one for whenever I want to wake up and jam with my music. Tie...KZ did a good job of creating an ESX antithesis.

Lyra vs Shimin Li
Lyra has correct treble, has better techs, correct vocals, sound as organic and analog like Shimin Li. When compared Shimin Li has catastrophic treble response and shouty vocals. Don't even want to compare this two to be honest, I quite hate how Shimin Li replays my library it is just destroying my music enjoyment, glad that I didn't pull the trigger with that overhyped IEM. Don’t even talk about technicalities with Shimin Li its mediocre at best.

Lyra vs Heart Mirror
Lyra and Heart Mirror almost sound the same, with Heart Mirror being brighter and a bit better on detail retrieval. However, I will still choose the Lyra because of its accurate staging and proper vocal position on the soundscape (HM vocals has no permanent position on the soundscape and higher pitched vocals are placed too near to me, while lower pitched types are too far away from me, with Lyra they are just in center whatever vocal type it is). Lyra also sounds more accurate for my ears...Lyra wins.

Lyra vs DQ6S
DQ6S sounds more bloated when compared to Lyra, they both have the same sound presentation. What I don't like with DQ6S is how boxy the female vocals are and how subbass dominant it is, Lyra fixes the issues I have with the DQ6S, while retaining that organic replay...Lyra wins.

Lyra vs CRA+
CRA+ has more definition to cymbals, a bit faster driver speed and has the same organic nature as Lyra. The thing that makes me choose the Lyra over the CRA+ is, CRA+ sounds bloated to me, and upper treble is too metallic for my ears, they are still a good option, but I think Lyra does the whole organic signature better. Lyra wins.

Lyra vs Yume Midnight
YuMid is more refined sounding, doesn't need custom eartips to reduce the shout, has a more noticeable layers in the music and can handle complex tracks with finesse. Lyra somehow mimics the sound signature of YuMid while having 60% of its tech. It’s a YuMid lite for my ears. Yume Midnight wins

Lyra vs Tanya Max
Lyra sounds less bloated and more open, Tanya sounds more accurate and true to life with vocals..however I don't quite like how Tanya presents the bass and treble it’s just low res for my ears and messy for my library..Lyra wins

Lyra vs AS16 Pro
AS16 Pro is the master of staging and layering at the price they are asking. AS16 Pro has better detail retrieval, less congestion, superb separation, spacious soundstage, sounds truer to life. However, it has tonal flaws like apparent leanness with vocals and strings, lack of presence to some instruments. Lyra on the other hand boast its complete and organic sound signature. If Lyra somehow attains AS16 Pro tech it might win this comparison but I fortunately Lyra is too far away from it. AS16 Pro wins.

Mods

Lyra sounds harsh with stock eartips, recommended to change them as soon as possible.

Click to expand...

1. Kbear KB07
Won’t work this time, sounds the same as the stock eartips, I don’t if its just the fit, but the bass of Lyra in these eartips is just diminished. Not recommended.

2. Stock Starline Tips
No. But you can use this for a while if you don’t have other eartips on hand, just be aware of the treble unrefinedness, specially for people who are sensitive to the 4-6kHz region.

3. Sony EP-EX11 Tips
Yeap, will retain that organic timbre while reducing the treble unrefinedness by a lot. Recommended recommended, also improves vocal positioning and tightens the bass response.

4. KZ Reversed Starlines
Okay, if you found the Lyra bassy, which I doubt. Widens the stage and makes the midrange pop out, but reduces the bass significantly, good if you are a treblehead.

5. Spinfits CP145/CP100
Makes the Lyra V-shaped, midrange articulation starts to degrade, however soundscape becomes wider and taller.

6. Generic Foam Tips
Also removes the harshness, but with lesser soundscape width. I don’t recommend them that much since the foam tips bore slips out easily with Lyra’s nozzle.

7. BGVP W01
NOOO. Treble will go brrrr with these tips, don’t.

Equalization
No, just like the ESX, it doesn’t need it . Just enjoy its sound.

Tested Synergies
Midtier Set Mimicker
(Lyra, Sony EP-EX11 Tips, CX-31993, Nicehck 8-core High Purity Copper Cable)
Smoothest and most natural synergy I have achieved, kind of mimics the timbre and staging of some midtier IEMs I have tried (e.g Yume and Yume Midnight). Vocals are also lusher and instruments are more weighted with this synergy. Basically the tips reduces the harshness and makes the vocals more forward, while CX-31993 unlocks the techs and refines the signature a bit.

Make it even More Boring
(Lyra, Sony EP-EX11 Tips, Avani)
Sounds booorring..too flat sounding for my ears. I mean they are still good, but it didn’t have the dynamics that the above synergy has. Recommended if you are a neutral head.

Recommend Tracks/Genres:
Almost all tracks but excels with Acoustic/Jazz/Bossa Nova

“Not that good” Tracks:

• Some tracks with high pitched female vocal lead may be shouty to some.
• Rock (specially oldies), cymbals initial crash may be presented as too forward at times to some.
• Some tracks also lack the energy and wow factor (e.g Shirushibi by Nagi Yanagi).
• Complex tracks like Metal may not be layered as some people may prefer.

Non-affliated Shop Links:
CCA Lyra at Official KZ Store

Overall Rating
A (Below SeeAudio Yume)
Recommended

But due to the current competition right now (talking about the Zeros) KZ might have a hard time making the Lyra enticing to graphs worshippers or sound enthusiasts in general. Unfortunately, I also have a feeling that this will be another EDA Balanced case, since it is not reviewed by big reviewers it will just be skipped by many even if it sounds good and competitive by default. Let’s add the KZ drama and witch hunt that is resonating throughout different forums. It’s really saddening, since KZ is trying to improve their tuning, and get other people feedbacks in the process. All they received these days are backlash from people who didn’t even try most of their IEMs and didn’t know the whole story about the driver gate drama and just joining the hate bandwagon.

Click to expand...

My Ranking Listo!
Asterhythmist

Final Words

Nothing to say to be honest, I’m just disappointed that this IEM will be overshadowed just like the EDA Bal (which is still my keeper till this date).

Click to expand...

Summary
A shouty warmish midcentric IEM that may sound boring, lifeless and uninspiring. However, it has good bass texture and speed, just enough bass quantity, not lacking nor overbearing. Midrange is presented with forwardness, but female vocals induce some shout with stock eartips (Kbear07) and at higher volumes. Male vocals have enough weight and are lush in tone but it tilts towards a warm coloration and are not accurate sounding like the Tanya. Higher pitched male vocals also has some shout and harshness in some tracks. Treble is unsatisfactory and has a major dip at the mid-treble to upper treble region making the Li Shimin lack any sparkle and zing. All instruments feel blunted and just lacking the harmonics that should appear on the soundscape. Technicalities are average and I didn’t notice any improvements when comparing to my KZ/CCA IEMs, to be honest, its tech is below the recent KZ/CCA IEMs which is disappointing for the price they are asking for this IEM.

Preliminary

• I’ve used the Li Shimin for over 3 days with different sources and tips, played different tracks ranging from pop to bossa nova.
• Take my review with a large scoop of salt and always cross reference.
• I liked to thank Sir Eiji for including me in the Tangzu Li Shimin Tour.
• This review will somehow be biased towards my taste in music and my target sound signature.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.

Equipment

• CX-31993
• Avani (ALC-5686)
• Abigail (CX-31993) “Main Source”
• LG V20
• Xiaomi Mi 4

Thy Frequency Spectrum

This IEM sounds bland and any music enjoyment I have with my recent IEMs are just downgraded when switching to Li Shimin. It sounds too soft and there’s no dynamics, bite or zing at all. The microdetails I’m enjoying with EDA Balanced, ultimately gone, the soundstage that I’m so mesmerized with ESX, gone. I don’t understand the hype for this IEM, I mean the packaging is cool, the IEM looks is banger, the sound?

Click to expand...

Bass: 7/10
Li Shimin can handle big bass drops and has enough rumble to keep up with EDM tracks. But bass texturing is in the average side and even my Heart Mirror does a better job at it. Bass quantity is adequate and speed is in the slower side. Neutral heads will really appreciate this bass shelf but may find it lacking the bass snap. Midbass isn’t bleeding in the midrange, however the bass lacks the slam and punch, I can’t really follow the bass riffs with this set, it sounds too smooth in the bass.

Midrange 5/10
When I hope that this set will present the midrange better than the bass, my expectation goes haywire. This set presents my Nagi Yanagi tracks with unrefinedness and shout, I don’t really know what’s happening, she sounds lush when she’s singing in the lower octave, but as she increases her pitch, her voice has this unrefinedness and is somehow shouty, I might even describe it as shrill. I don’t really like how this set is replaying my favorite Nagi Yanagi tracks. For male vocals they are okay and sounds somehow accurate, they are lush sounding, can’t really find any faults in it really. But if I have to really nitpick, higher pitched male vocals have the same problem as the female ones. Instrument fundamentals are well articulated and noteweight is a bit on the thicker side, however some instruments like violins and piano may sound incomplete and one-noted in some tracks.

Treble 2/10
What…is even happening with the treble..where is the upper treble? Where are my sparkles? Where are the reverbs on the soundscape? It sounds like there’s a big hole in the treble area, instruments harmonics are almost inaudible, it just sounds so blunted. I mean the treble is safe, there’s no 8kHz peak and the presentation is almost harshless, but where’s the treble at? Listening to Li Shimin feels like something is taken from my music, it also feels like I’m in a cave of sound instead of being in an open space… This is so disappointing; I’m expecting better than this due to the hype.

Technicalities

• Driver presentation of notes are almost the same as Heart Mirror, it has moderate attack and decay. Some may even call this an organic presentation of sound.
• Complex tracks are handled pretty well, but treble may start to sound harsh and unrefined, recommended to lower the volume.
• Soundstage has an average wideness but below average height and depth. It feels like I am in a cave of sound instead of an open room.
• Imaging and staging are skewed in some songs, and bass may present itself forward along with the instruments, vocals are the nearest within your headspace and may sound to intimate, moreover some higher pitched instruments like piano or cymbals may be perceived as too far away from the listener.
• Separation is below average, and CCA Lyra beats it by a mile.
• Microdetails are meh, reverb and echoes are almost nonexistent, dynamics are soft and too smooth at times, overall timbre is accurate but pulled back by the treble response and may sound like the instruments are covered with cloth.

Music Analysis

No ….IEMs in the lower rank of my list doesn’t need this section. This is exclusive to the sets I have enjoyed.

Click to expand...

Frequency Response Analysis


Comparison

This comparative analysis is highly biased on my library, so please don’t take this as a unified guide on what should you buy or not.

Click to expand...

Li Shimin vs CRA+
CRA+ has more weight and warmth to the midrange, has a more palatable treble response, sounds less smooth than Li Shimin, sounds more detailed, bass is more textured and has significant slam and punch to it, midrange is safer and isn’t shouty like the Li Shimin. Li Shimin only advantage is it sounds more organic and less metallic, otherwise for my library, CRA+ wins

Li Shimin vs CCA Lyra
Think of it like this, take the Li Shimin sound signature and add a proper treble response and reduce the shoutiness of it. Tadah CCA Lyra. Lyra is a perfected Li Shimin for my ears, like the issues I have with the Li Shimin are just fixed by Lyra while also retaining that neutral/analog approach to the music. Lyra wins

Li Shimin vs EDA Balanced
EDA Balanced has better microdetails, has better soundstage presentation, has better bass texture, faster bass response, better treble extension, lovable and full of clarity female vocals rendition, has proper treble response. Li Shimin doesn’t have all of that, maybe it sounds more organic and timbre is more on the analog side? Don’t really care, Li Shimin is not letting me enjoy my music so EDA Balanced wins

Li Shimin vs Heart Mirror
Heart Mirror has better treble response, faster bass, non-shouty female vocals, wider soundstage, a correct staging of instruments and studio-like soundstage. Li Shimin has better male vocals rendition, has more warmth to the overall sound unlike Heart Mirror, has more bass quantity. For my library, Heart Mirror wins.

Li Shimin vs Tanya Max
Li Shimin only advantage in this comparison is it has a better bass shelf, other than that Tanya Max takes the Shimin Li analog warmth formula and refined it even further, they have both upper treble hole, but Tanya Max has a correct mid-treble response, Li Shimin has both dips at the mid-treble and upper treble making it sound more blunted than Tanya. Tanya Max wins

Mods
1. Stock Wide Bore Tips (07 clone)
Introduce shout, better to change this immediately.

2. Radius Deep Mounts
Yeap recommended, but treble may be perceived as unrefined at times.

3. Stock Narrow Bore Tips (08 clone)
Cuts the soundstage even more, makes the sound more bassy while also having that dark treble. No stop this.


Equalization

No, it sounds bad even with EQ, I just tried my target with this set and it sounds low-res and unrefined.

Click to expand...

Tested Synergies
Monotonic Disappointment
(Li Shimin, Kbear07, Abigail/Avani/CX-31993)
Sounds okay with Abigail, sounds even more darker with Avani, sounds more shouty with CX-31993. Do I really need to explain this synergy? I mean you the one reading this might have better source than me…. but yeah it sounds bad with all of my source. All the statements I wrote in this review is with the Abigail dongle.

Recommend Tracks/Genres:
Jazz, Classical, Indie, Old Rock

“Not that good” Tracks:
Almost all tracks in my music library.

Overall Rating
C- (Above CCA CA10)
NOT Recommended
(Sorry, but this set is just destroying my enjoyment with my music library, maybe other people will appreciate this kind of approach to music, but I really don’t..)
My Ranking Listo!
Asterhythmist

Final Words

Thank you for reading this *rant* I mean review.

Click to expand...

Before you read this review
Change the eartips to widebores when using newer KZ releases, just please, as stock eartips make the sound boomy and more v-shaped, degrading the sound quality by a lot. Throughout this review I will use Kbear07 as my main eartips, stock eartips are disregarded.


Summary
Most refined KZ so far, fun, safe, detailed, grand, open, dynamic, and organic sounding, a very suitable all-rounder IEM that will suit most music lovers’ taste (except neutral heads). Sound signature is leaning towards a U-Shaped presentation with significant hump around 250 Hz. Making ESX to dig subbass really well while also hitting the listener with slam, texture, weight and punch. Midrange is also excellently tuned, both male and female vocals are properly forward on the soundscape and exhibit accurate tone and lushness (however there are some tracks where the vocals will be 1 step back from the instruments, mainly occurs in heavy bass tracks). Lower treble is excellently tuned, guitars and violins have enough clarity but aren’t artificially sharp like the OG CRA. Upper treble has a dip (yeeessss~) which contributes to its wide soundscape, 3D feel and organic replay. Overtones also aren’t always forced to the listener, and all instruments are always perceived with proper distance on the soundscape (in short, it has a very good imaging/staging). Talking about imaging, soundstage has above average width, average height and above average depth. Speed and dynamics are also excellent and the sound will literally attack you with force whenever the tracks need that grandness and big presence on the soundscape. ESX mainly excels with all western tracks and selected Japanese music.

Disclaimer

• Take my review with a large scoop of salt and always cross reference.
• I like to thank papa KZ/CCA for providing me a review unit of the KZ ESX
• I will analyze the KZ ESX with references to my Dynamic Realist (EDA Blanced) and my most expensive set that I’ve tried so far (Yume Midnight)
• This review will somehow be biased towards my taste in music and my target sound signature.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.

Preliminary

• I’ve used the KZ ESX for over 3 weeks with different sources and tips, played different tracks ranging from pop to bossa nova.
• Before listening to ESX, I have taken a half day break of listening to IEMs, this is to make sure that ESX’s sound signature will be fresh and new to my ears.

Equipment

• CX-31993
• Avani (ALC-5686)
• Abigail (CX-31993) “Main Source”
• LG V20
• Xiaomi Mi 4

Thy Frequency Spectrum
Yeap, like Practiphile said ESX is the king of macrodynamics, all notes carry this very thick weight (presence) that makes the instruments exhibit this grand presence on the soundscape, its literally enticing the listener to jam with the music and ignore the microdetails in the music.

Bass: 9.8/10
Subbass digs really really deep (e.g Fresh Static Snow by Porter Robinson, ESX will literally guide you towards the deepest bass part of that track, just indulge and relax, it also rumbles very cleanly throughout the soundscape). There is also this significant presence of the lower pitched instruments on the soundscape, drum kicks and bass guitars feel very physical and real and I can somehow feel them beside me, it’s a bizzare yet a very indulging experience really, I can't explain how I love the bass presentation of ESX. Yes it bleeds in the midrange, but man the presentation is grand, theatre like, tight and textured..I don't know how to explain it anymore please helpm..if I have to really nitpick, bass lacks the snap and it doesn't decay that fast like the EDA Balanced. But overall man..deserve the 9.8, it’s just amazing.

Midrange: 7.5/10
Recessed depending on the track, if the track is somehow bass heavy the mids will be perceived as recessed otherwise it’s pretty forward in most of my tracks. Both male and female vocals are accurate and I can't detect any honk or boxiness to them. However, male vocals are more forward on the soundscape and exhibit more lushness/raspiness compared to female vocals. Female vocals also do not have this lovable sparkol/brightness/cleanliness that DR has so take that into consideration, to be honest it’s kinda like the Tanya vocal presentation but a bit tamed and laid back. Instrument fundamentals has a bit of warm tint to them and isn't as organic sounding like the Tanya, midrange has this warm coloration giving this thick note weight to all instruments where the fundamentals lie between 200-1kHz.

Treble: 9/10
Safe, palatable and harshless, yet isn't dark sounding at all. Treble does not have the edge (which some of KZ IEMs exhibit, e.g EDXU, CRA+, EDA Hires) and sounds very easy to the ears, piano, wind instruments, strings have enough clarity, notes are well nuanced and articulated on the soundscape. The treble presentation lacks the sparkle (gentle upper treble glide like the DR) but it has proper staging and frontal projection of instruments due to the dip at 12 kHz. Making the instruments to be placed 360 degrees around my headspace. Additionally, the dip at 12kHz, also contributes to the lack of bass snap and overtones might not be audible in some tracks (death of cymbals are hard to catch in some tracks). But overall, even if ESX doesn't have the satisfying treble sparkle and clarity that DR has, it still feels complete and not lacking at all like the Tanya which is straight up butchered in the upper treble.

Technicalities

• Driver quality and speed is the same as the EDA Balanced, but unlike EDA Balanced all notes are carried with significant weight and you can somehow feel that some instruments especially bass guitars are in your front (it feels very 3D). Attack is a bit slow compared to EDA Balanced, but decay is almost the same and the drums sticking and changing of rhythm of kickdrums can be heard easily. It isn’t smudging or blurred in any way.
• Soundstage has an excellent width and height, above average depth (wider and taller than Yume, has better depth than Yume Midnight), it’s like you are in a large studio room and the instruments are placed 360 degress within your headspace. It isn’t like the EDA Balanced where you are in a hall (EDA Bal renders reverb and echoes on the soundscape amazingly tbh), but the presentation is much physical/real and there will be sometimes where you will be shocked at how real some lower pitched instruments sound, it’s like the Tanya presentation but on steroids.
• Imaging and staging are excellent, and almost the same as how Yume stages instruments.
• Separation is above average, but it isn’t that well separated like the EDA Balanced, it is much smoother sounding, more cohesive and relaxed sounding. It will make you ignore the details and just enjoy the music “ESX literally embodies the quote written on the box”.
• Microdetails are below average, and reverb and echoes may be missed at times, dynamics are a bit better than EDA Balanced, overall timbre is accurate and true to life.
• Macrodynamics, how the ESX takes in the larger picture of volume and moves it around and over the whole soundscape of the song? Yeah, no question, it’s amazeballs with that.

Music Analysis

While writing this section, I am listening thoroughly to the tracks that are mentioned, there will be sometimes where I will say coped statements and will be too lazy to explain anything, but yeah, this is the part I enjoy the most so let me indulge just a bit.

Click to expand...

1. Hamu Test “Multiple tracks arranged by Hamu” (Played in HibyMusic)

The tracks in this section, will test the IEM ability to naturally replay and stage musical instruments like piano, guitar, violin and drums. This section will also test imaging, detail retrieval and separation. Most of the tracks here also hates V-shaped IEMs.

Click to expand...

Maaan the tracks in this section are very dynamic, full of energy, organic, 3D-like and wide sounding. All instruments are presented with physicality and very big presence on the soundscape, like at the start of track サクラモチ, it literally sounds like I’m in a sunny sidewalk and there is a musician jamming with his guitar and triangle and some people are walking behind me, I can literally imagine myself at the front of the musician. Instruments are placed in the front, back and sides and the hitting of drums, strumming of guitars and that trumphet..arrrghhh.. so nuanced, heavy and articulated, so good. Additionally, listening to track 流星をくぐって, I can hear how the sound of the waves of the ocean go back and forth at the front and back of my head, while the drums start to jam at the start. Also the bass notes after that….just… starts to pound the soundscape, then decays very cleanly like nothing even happens, like what, what the fudge is even happening, maan..why is the bass flexing like that, its making me love the track even more like whth…. I can’t explain how I love the replay of this song with ESX, I just want to enjoy it damn it!!! Arrrghhh~~

Replay Rating: Beautiful

2. Betelgeuse by Go-qualia (Played in HibyMusic)

Female Vocals, Driver Resolvability, Soundstage, Midrange Nuances, Separation

Click to expand...

Bruh, wth is even happening, this track sounds amazing with EDA Balanced, and ESX turns up the dynamics and fun factor to 11, the overall sound is authoritative and all instruments has this big presence on the soundscape….Maaan.. the bass drop at 01:23 and how Illya voice actor starts to speak, it’s just so well done, the transition and how the bass attacks on the soundscape and how it decays very cleanly, like bruh it sounds soo goood, like what the fudge is ESX even doing with this track. The sense of space is very open, background voices are also articulated in the whole soundscape. However even if the main voice at the foreground is well weighted and tonally correct, it does not have the brightish and clean replay like the EDA Balanced (with EDA you can hear the echo on the voices, yes, all voices, even the background voices.), but maan the presentation of the sound scape is just..just making me ignore the microdetails in the music, and just focus on the fundamentals of the instruments..bruh its just so grand and theatre-like … As Nagi takes the stage at 04:09, she sounds so powerful and her voice is just so luuush…I don’t know what to say anymore, please if you love this track, just..just buy the ESX or even EDA Balanced if you like more details.

Replay Rating: Beautiful

3. All Ed Sheeran Tracks (Played in HibyMusic)

Guitars, Male Vocals, Soundstage, Separation, Staging

Click to expand...

Ahmm. Do I even need to explain the replay of Ed Sheeran tracks with ESX..
To be honest I just want to enjoy his tracks and ignore the little nitbits, I’ll just summarize it with 3 words. hehe
Theaterical, Grand, Lush.

No comment really, if you like Ed Sheeran, ESX is a no brainer.

Replay Rating: Beautiful

4. Machigai Sagashi by Kenshin Yonezu (Played in HibyMusic)

Male Vocals, Midrange Resolvability, Guitars, Separation

Click to expand...

Another majestic track with ESX, just plain beautiful. How the ESX extract the wideness and atmosphere of this song, is just so immersive, mind you this is still the start of the track. As Kenshi takes the stage, the atmosphere retains its wideness, while Kenshi’s lush voice dominate my center space. This track is a bit cleaner with EDA Balanced, however with ESX the instruments are more spread out throughout the soundstage, and there’s a hint of warmth to the overall sound, many will correlate it to being natural sounding. The niche thing here is at 01:01, even with the significant bass drop, the midrange retains its quality and transparency. Plus the contrabass at 02:01, I can imagine them at the furthest right at the back of my head, and I can hear how the strings are being plucked beautifully. If you are an avid Kenshi Yonezu listener you will love the ESX. Cause truth to be told, all of Kenshi tracks are amazingly rendered with ESX, you can feel the weight of notes, the lushness of Kenshi voice, appreciate how Kenshi master his tracks and plays with spatial cues..

Replay Rating: Beautiful

5. Prism from Polyomino Disc 2 by Nagi Yanagi (Played in HibyMusic)

Female Vocals, Midrange Forwardness, Detail Retrieval, Separation, Soundstage

Click to expand...

One of the weaknesses of ESX, to render female vocals with sparkle and render microdetails and echoes on the soundscape. This track is lacking resolution with ESX, the bass is somehow veiling the midrange and instruments feels like one noted. With EDA Balanced this track is clean, transparent and free from any veil or mud, microdetails and reverbs are just retrieved wonderfully and you can feel the atmosphere of the song. With ESX its just not there, it feels like the instruments are fighting for loudness on the soundstage add the enthusiastic bass that doesn’t want to get overtaken. It sounds messy.

Replay Rating: Meh

Frequency Response Analysis


Comparison

This comparative analysis is highly biased on my library, so please don’t take this as a unified guide on what should you buy or not.

Click to expand...

ESX vs CRA+
Think of CRA+ but without the metallic/artificial treble and vocals, and has this wider, deeper, and taller soundstage, that’s how the ESX sounds like. But even with the grander sound of ESX, there will be sometimes where people will still crave for those details in the upper treble that the CRA+ has, in which the ESX trades off with a more organic and immersive signature. For my library, no doubt ESX wins. But if you already have the CRA+ I don’t see any reasons upgrading to ESX, maybe if you like a more open soundstage while retaining the signature of CRA+, then yes upgrade to it.

ESX vs Oppoty (BL-03)
Its like I’m comparing a bicycle here with a motorcycle. ESX is the motorcycle by the way. ESX has better bass control, better soundstage, more accurate imaging, better vocals, even better accessories. I don’t know what BL03 is holding really, timbre? You can get 90% of that with ESX, soft bass that sounds bad with most of my tracks? Yeah nope. ESX wins

ESX vs EDA Balanced
EDA Balanced has better microdetails, sounds more in your face, has better soundstage presentation, has better faster bass response, has better treble extension, has better female vocals rendition, sounds more linear. ESX sounds grander, bigger, authoritative, also has a deeper soundstage, a more analog replay, sounds more dynamic, fun and laid back. I can’t choose helpm…. Tie

ESX vs EDX Ultra
Do I really need to do this? I really despise EDX Ultra upper treble, maybe just for reference, think of EDX Ultra but without the headache inducing upper treble, has better soundstage and is more dynamic and natural sounding, that’s how ESX sounds. ESX wins.

ESX vs Tanya Max (Using Avani)
Yeap, no competition, lol, ESX is just a grander, theatrical and, technical version of Tanya. Like don’t even at me. ESX wins

Mods

ESX sounds bloated and too bassy with stock tips, please and oh please change the tips to widebore (I highly recommend Kbear07 or BGVP W01) if you really want to enjoy them. And please KZ if you are seeing this, your eartips are ruining the sound of your current IEMs.

Click to expand...

1. Kbear KB07
Yes! Recommended (please always include these tips in your KZ purchase cause this IEM makes wonders on their recent IEMs), improves the soundstage and imaging. Also adds more texture to the bass, and make the midrange cleaner, adds dimensionality to the sound and makes the vocals more forward than stock tips.

2. Stock Starline Tips
STAPPPH, No.

3. Radius Deep Mounts
Yeap recommended also, but it cuts the openness of the soundstage of the ESX. Makes the vocals more forward and intimate than Kbear07.

4. KZ Reversed Starlines
Also cuts the bass to a significant degree, makes the midrange and treble pop out more. Adds more width to the soundstage, but reduces the depth and tallness. Vocals may appear may laid back. But still acceptable compared to the stock tips.

5. Spinfits CP145/CP100
Also cuts the bass to a significant degree, makes the midrange pop out more. But also diminishes the depth of the soundstage so yeah. Recommended if you think that ESX is too bassy even with Kbear07.

6. Generic Foam Tips
Almost the same as Kbear07 but less bass texture. Makes the vocals more laid back too than Kbear07.

7. BGVP W01
Kbear07 with lesser bass and wider soundstage, cleaner vocals too.

Equalization
No, it doesn’t need it . Just enjoy its sound.

Tested Synergies
Zenith’s Refined Synergy
(ESX, Kbear07, Abigail)
Smoothest and most dynamic synergy, Abigail will make sure that the bass mud is kept to a minimum while improving the soundstage depth and making sure that the midrange will pop out more. Kbear07 will tighten the bass and provide more room for midrange to shine. Microdetails are also more apparent with this synergy. Also, excellent set for fun, dynamic and fatigue free listening.

It’s All About the Fundamentals
(ESX, Kbear 07, Avani)
You want the super thick instrument fundamentals to slap you with force on the soundscape? Then yes this is a synergy to go for, however microdetails aren’t that audible in this synergy and other may find it too bassy or too heavy. This synergy is more suitable for jamming and losing yourself with the music rather than a critical listen. If you somehow achieved this synergy, try to play some energetic pop songs, and hear what I’m trying to say here.

Recommend Tracks/Genres:
Almost all genres, especially Western/OPM Tracks.

“Not that good” Tracks:
Not really a deal breaker for me, but some Japanese tracks might be too bassy to some. Female vocal centric tracks might also be unsatisfactory.

Shop Links:
https://www.kztws.com/products/kz-esx

Overall Rating
S- (Yes, S-, you reading that right)
Highly Recommended
(Current Top 1 due to the macrodynamics and its overall-theatre like staging, it also has the characteristic of an S-ranker in my list.)
My Ranking Listo!
Asterhythmist

Final Words

Super late to review this..sorry? And also thank you very much for reading my review. hehe
Talking off topic. It seems that there are reported issues with unit variance with some people, I’ve already talked to one of the KZ rep and it seems that it isn’t a batch issue, and just a typical case of Chi-fi unit variance. So take that into consideration if you are considering the ESX.. Also how many times do I need to repeat this…change da tipss ples~~

Click to expand...

Before you read this review:
I’ve tested the Tanya in its MAX configuration as recommended by Sir. Yannick. Specifically, Kbear 07 Tips and Avani dongle were used throughout the review. I didn’t use the stock eartips since they are making the Tanya super muddy and low res. So yeah, if you somehow really want to buy Tanya don’t forget to include a Kbear 07 tips.

Summary
Sound signature follows the diffuse field target with significant midbass to counter the big pinna gain rise (which will introduce shout at shallow insertions). Overall sound signature leans toward organic, natural and lush replay, no instruments feel oversharpened and elements in the music just feels really weighted and natural. Treble is also safely tuned and there’s no peaks or harshness to be found, however it just lacks the airiness in some tracks, making it congested/low-res at times specially with most of my Japanese music. Bass, there’s almost no sub-bass, bass doesn’t dig deep at all and all the bass is just focused on the midbass (not good for EDM and Trance). Soundstage is tall, but below average with width and depth, has a tendency to sound tunnel-like in some complex tracks, but with slow tracks the instruments are properly placed in front of me. Imaging and staging is average, with the con that with complex tracks, staging starts to suffer specially with drums, they are just drowned by this pillowy like bass on the soundscape..Lastly, the specialty of Tanya, the vocals, yeap it sounds like the vocals of some sub $100 IEMs, I’m not even kidding, there’s this lushness and accuracy to both male and female vocals that’s very reminiscent to the SeeAudio Yume.

Disclaimer

• Take my review with a large scoop of salt and always cross reference.
• I like to thank myself for purchasing the Tanchjim Tanya, thanks self!
• I will analyze the Tanchjim Tanya with references to my Dynamic Realist (DR, EDA Balanced), CCA CRA+ and Yume.
• This review will somehow be biased towards my taste in music and my target sound signature.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.

Preliminary

• I’ve used the Tanchjim Tanya for over 2 months with different sources and tips, played different tracks ranging from pop to bossa nova (except Metal).
• Before listening to Tanya, I have taken a half day break of listening to IEMs, this is to make sure that the Tanya’s sound signature will be fresh and new to my ears.

Equipment

Let me get this out of the way, out of the 5 sources I have, only Avani sounds good with Tanya Max, the remaining dongles just make the Tanya even more low resolution, like it’s not even funny how choosy the Tanya is with cheapo sources.

Click to expand...

• CX-31993 “Nope”
• Avani (ALC-5686) “Main Source”
• Abigail (CX-31993) “Nope, where’s the mids?”
• LG V20 “Nope”
• Xiaomi Mi 4 “Hahaha, say hello to mud”

Thy Frequency Spectrum

Yeap, there’s a reason why this little bullet-kun is hyped to the moon in the past years (2020-2021) and even until now, it just sounds so natural and organic, and very good for long listening sessions. However, folks who want a cleaner and transparent sound signature, I suggest looking at other options instead, as the Tanya will not do it for you.

Click to expand...

Bass: 4/10
There’s almost no sub-bass, yeap almost, if the track really calls for it, the subbass will be there, but very low in quantity, it doesn’t have this satisfying rumble that most of my KZ iems provide, plus it’s just mediocre bass, both in quantity and quality. The bass is focused on the midbass giving this warmth to the vocals while also making sure that the sub-bass will not haze the overall soundscape whatsoever. Truth to be told, the bass is one of the things I hate with Tanya, it’s feels very low res, it doesn’t have enough texture and definition, its controlled but its feels dampened or something. If you are considering Tanya for bass, don’t do it.

Midrange 9.5/10
Vocals are forward and well-articulated on the soundscape, it doesn’t have this coloration that recent KZ iems tend to add to the mix, it literally feels like I’m listening again to the SeeAudio Yume, the accuracy and lushness of both male and female vocals with the Tanya is just excellent (Tanya is literally my budget vocals benchmark). Female artists like Nagi Yanagi sounds very lush, accurate and has enough clarity, it doesn’t have the lovable sparkol that DR has, but its more accurate and truer to life. Male vocals are also accurate, from lowest pitch to highest pitch types, each vocal type has enough body, clarity and also sound true to life just like the female vocals. But, even with all this praise with the vocal replay, I didn’t rate the midrange as high as 10, since I still have some nitpick with most instrument fundamentals, it sounds realistic and natural for sure, however they lack the transparency and cleanliness, sounds like there’s a veil covering each instruments blocking the overtones to naturally decay on the soundscape, it sounds okay in some tracks like Jazz, but sounds lo-fi in recent mainstream music.

Treble 5/10
Safely tuned and no harshness or peaks to be found, the treble response is just very smooth and easy to the ears. However, in some of my tracks, I am itching for more clarity/brightness to some instruments like piano and strings, the said instruments just lack the resolution on the soundscape and sounds too soft and blunted. Overtones, most of the time sounds muted and veiled by the midbass. Add the dip at the upper treble of the Tanya making the sound closed-in and congested in some of my tracks (e.g Tachyon by Nagi Yanagi). If compared, DR in my opinion, has the perfect boost in the upper treble, making it open sounding yet not strident like the EDXU, Tanya in comparison sounded dull and blunted. To be honest, the treble performance of Tanya is just mediocre, the realistic factor is certainly there, but it lacks the brightness, microdetails are most of the times subdued and the reverbs are just not there.


Technicalities

• Driver speed is below average, yeap even with the magical tips (Kbear 07), Tanya sounds congested in some of my tracks and the midbass can’t keep up. Evident in most of my Nagi Yanagi tracks (e.g Tachyon album). It literally feels like the driver is struggling to provide enough articulation on the notes and sounds like the midbass is compensating the fundamentals by giving it more audibility on the soundscape even if it sounds low resolution in nature.
• Microdetail retrieval is meh, there’s almost no nuances on the soundscape and feels like I am being surrounded by this pillowy bass, it sounds nice for sure, but the transparency is being sacrificed in the process (I don’t quite like it to be honest). Macrodetails and dynamics are excellent though, there’s some occasion where some lower pitched instrument like drums and lower piano keys sound very real and organic, but yeah it feels blunted in most of my complex tracks.
• Soundstage has above average height but below average depth and width, it literally feels like I’m in a small room (or even in a tunnel at some times) covered with cloth.
• Separation is nope, as I said earlier that driver speed is just smearing some notes, instruments are well separated with slow tracks but tracks with complex harmonies are just not good sounding at all with Tanya.
• Driver is also not that efficient (compared to KZ), as I need to pump out more volume around (110/150 out of my phone) to make it sound acceptable and to pop the details out.
• Timbre, coherency and tonality is excellent and far from any KZs I’ve heard.

Music Analysis
1. Hamu Test “Multiple tracks arranged by Hamu” (Played in HibyMusic)

The tracks in this section, will test the IEM ability to naturally replay and stage musical instruments like piano, guitar, violin and drums. This section will also test imaging, detail retrieval and separation. Most of the tracks here also hates V-shaped IEMs.

Click to expand...

Hamu tracks with Tanya sounds accurate and well weighted. Most timbre of most instruments, guitars, drums, piano and wind instruments’ are accurate and feels real. However, there’s a hole in the upper treble and micro nuances with the said instruments aren’t retrieved well. Soundscape in most of track are spacious but they sound dampened and veiled by the midbass. Example is with the track 流星をくぐって, the overall soundscape doesn’t have the room reverb that most of my IEMs provide (with my EDA Balanced it literally feels like the instruments are diffused around my headspace, and you can literally hear all the micro nuances on the soundscape, with Tanya it’s just not there), it literally feels like the sound is coming off from a well or something, I mean the instruments timbre are accurate and are realistic sounding but like, they are in a tunnel of sound, instead of being diffused around my head. Like at the very start of the said track there’s already this pillowy like feeling that I don’t quite like, the whole atmosphere of all Hamu track just feels off to my ears.

Replay Rating: Average

2. Betelgeuse by Go-qualia (Played in HibyMusic)

Female Vocals, Driver Resolvability, Soundstage, Midrange Nuances, Separation

Click to expand...

It sounds so-so, like I said before with the Hamu tracks, it feels like the sound is coming off in a tunnel instead of being diffused 360 degrees around my headspace. To be honest this track sounds amazing with EDA Balanced and ESX, but with Tanya, it feels like I’m missing something, the details aren’t there, the cleanliness aren’t there. Though, the replay is bit more natural compared to CRA+. But even with those nitpicks that I have, there’s still some niche with the Tanya that I quite like. Like as the voice actor of Illya takes the stage at 01:20, she sounds very real and her voice are so articulated on the soundscape and is somehow tickling my left and right ears, it sounds like she is beside me or something, literally making me shiver. However, as Nagi Yanagi takes the stage at 04:09, my likeability of this song starts to crumble, Nagi sounds okay and her voice is clear and nuanced, but the notes of some instruments start smearing as soon as the track gets complex (as the bass takes over at 04:40), like the driver can’t just separate the elements of the music. The midbass is somehow complementing it, but but its making the sound even worse, wtfudge, it’s not a pleasant listen at all. I mean it sounds good when the track is just building up, but man as it gets complex…..nope nope

Replay Rating: Average

3. How Would You Feel by Ed Sheeran (Played in HibyMusic)

Guitars, Male Vocals, Soundstage, Separation, Staging

Click to expand...

Guitars, piano and drums sound realistic at the first second of the track, as Ed Sheeran takes the stage, his voice starts to diffuse all over the small soundscape. Ed Sheeran voice sounds quite realistic and I can’t notice any boxiness, unnaturalness or honk in his voice, it just sounds accurate. There’s also this studio feel to the whole track, but the instruments feel like they are all in front instead of being diffused around my headspace. Imaging and staging is pretty accurate and good so far with Tanya. However, what I don’t like is it feels congested in some parts of the track, like the midbass is killing the space between the instruments, like it sounds too spacious around 01:02 but as more instruments join the soundscape the space gets closed-in (around 04:08).

Replay Rating: Average

Comparison

This comparative analysis is highly biased on my library, so please don’t take this as a unified guide on what should you buy or not.

Click to expand...

Tanya Max vs CRA+
Tanya sounds more correct with the vocals, more linear and has taller soundstage. They are both targeting the same peeps out there, however I think Tanya did it better, but to make Tanya comparable you need specific tips and source otherwise it will sound more bloated and muddier than the CRA+. Tanya may sound congested if compared to CRA+ but the niche thing here is that Tanya sounds more natural on the decay and attack of notes. So yeah, Tanya is much better for my library, but you know, that non-removable cable is quite a bummer, so if you want a Tanya alternative then go CRA+. Tanya Max wins

Tanya Max vs BL-03
Let’s get this out of the way, BL03 sounds bloated and muddy to me, that slow bass is just a big nope for my library, and I don’t understand that it is still a recommendation in the community until now, nope nope. If you want a better BL03 with better timbre and better overall sound presentation, just go with Tanya. The two niche that makes the BL03 beats the Tanya is with its airier soundscape and treble, aside from that Tanya wins overall. Tanya Max wins

Tanya Max vs ESX
Yeap, no competition, lol, ESX is just a grander, theatrical and, technical version of Tanya. Like don’t even at me. ESX wins

Tanya Max vs The Dynamic Realist (EDA Balanced)
EDA Balanced is cleaner, more transparent, has a more sparkly female vocals, has wider soundstage, has miles better detail retrieval, has sub-bass, is lusher and more satisfying to listen to than Tanya Max. Like it’s not even a competition really, the only thing that makes me want to put Tanya Max above my DR is the fact that the vocals are more accurate and realistic with Tanya, aside from that, everything is better with DR. EDA Balanced wins.

Eartip Rolling

There are only two budget eartips options to be honest. Don’t try the Tanya with stock tips, yeap even with the included widebore, it sounds very meh.

Click to expand...

1. Kbear KB07
Yes! Recommended. I can’t say that it made the Tanya kill some $100 iem, it’s an overstatement really but yeah Tanya sounds very good with the said tips, opens up the whole soundscape, while retaining the timbre and tonality.

2. Reverse Starline Tips
Sounds like 07, but a bit brighter..If you found the Tanya to sound dull with 07 this tips are a very good alternative. Opens up the soundstage even more, cuts the midbass bloat significantly.

Equalization
Somehow fix the congestion with complex track with this EQ. Don’t blame me if you can’t listen to your Tanya without EQ anymore.

Fixes the bloat and cleans up the midrange, makes the overall signature shift to subbass focused instead of midbass focused. Made the pinna closer to DF target to make female vocals sparkol and to make the Tanya passable with most Japanese music. Lastly, fixes the upper treble veil and makes the microdetails pop out more on the soundscape.

Click to expand...

Tested Synergies
Sir Y. Semi Max Configuration (Tanya, Kbear07, Avani)
Yeap no question, if you want to appreciate Tanya, this is the budget option to go for. Soundstage is spacious, vocals isn’t shouty and sound correct/natural, fundamentals sounds well weighted and isn’t that bloated, treble is okayish, bass is also okayish.

Yuck Face 1 Config (Tanya, Kbear07, Abigail)
The fudge is this, the upper treble is pushed forward but sounds low res, the midbass is all over the place..where’s the mids?

Yuck Face 2 Config (Tanya, Kbear07, CX-31993)
Even worse than Yuck Face 1, narrower soundstage, treble is low res, sounds very lo-fi, vocals are shouty? What the fudge is happening.

It's FR-kun Time <'@'>


Recommend Tracks/Genres
Indie, Rock., Shoegazing, Alternatives, Soul/Blues, Orchestra, Live, Jazz

“Not that good” Tracks:
Pop, Trance / EDM, Rap, Hip Hop, Recent Japanese Music, Bossa Nova

Shop Links
Nope, just search it on google.

Overall Rating
A (High on the list for being my budget Vocal Benchmark, though…)
it is NOT Recommended

Just buy the ESX to be honest, it’s better than this in all areas except vocals rendition, but, but if you need the Tanya filter why not buy it

Click to expand...

My Ranking Listo!
Asterhythmist

Final Words
Thank you for reaching this part, this IEM is pretty old, and I am very late to review this, but I hope this helps someone who needs more opinion on the Tanya.

Before you read this review:

Before you read this review
The eartips included in the KZ EDA package are somehow mediocre and introduces more peaks to the overall sound. To fully unleash its potential, I highly recommend using wide bore tips like Kbear 07, the said tips will retain the treble quality while reducing the peaks and harshness that the stock tips have.




Summary
Generic Traits: Wide soundstage, very competent and speedy drivers, how the notes appear and disappear on the soundscape are very well defined. Detail retrieval are excellent, both macrodetails and microdetails are well nuanced within the soundscape. Imaging with lower pitched instruments is skewed and needs further improvement; however, the soundstage is just impressive, except for the High-Resolution version. All three IEMs also inherit aggressiveness to the sound with the High Resolution being the most relaxed of the three. With the said aggressiveness there’s no noticeable sibilance that is apparent in their old releases. Technicalities are almost the same between the three IEMs, with major differences in tonality.

EDA Bass: General sound signature is U-Shaped with great bass presence. Great depth and wideness to the soundstage. With beautifully textured, punchy and well resolved bass response that does not overstep or muds the midrange. Treble sparkles are well defined while midrange is a bit lean and some people may perceive the upper mids to be shouty at higher volumes. EDA Bass is also the most aggressive sounding out of the three. Beats the DQ6S when it comes to bass resolvability and tightness. Best enjoyed with low volume, treble peaks start to show at higher volumes.

EDA Balanced: General sound signature is approaching Harman Target 2019 with more midbass quantity. It has a concert-hall like sound presentation. Overall sound is very clean and transparent, vocals rendition is tinge brighter than Hzsound Heart Mirror, but both have the same vocals nuances and lushness. Bass response is also tighter that the EDA Bass, instruments nuances and details are just on full throttle and is flowing naturally in the whole soundscape, amazing detail retrieval, analytical with a hint of smoothness to the overall sound. Best sounding out of the three, beats all of my IEMs when it comes to technical performance.

EDA High Resolution: General sound signature is neutral leaning to bright. Treble presentation is same as Heart Mirror with okay-ish rendition of female vocals; however, harshness may occur in most rock tracks when used with stock tips. Soundscape has a small room feel compared to the other two’s wide dynamic concert hall like stage. This version is also the most tamed out of the three. It isn’t dynamic or full sounding like the Balanced version but is most natural and organic sounding set out of the three. Moreover, it has the lowest bass quantity and quality out of the three, bass quality can be improved using Kbear 07.


Disclaimer

• Take my review with a large scoop of salt and always cross reference.
• I like to thank papa KZ for providing me a review unit of the KZ EDA.
• I will analyze the KZ EDA with references to the most expensive set I’ve tried so far (Yume Midnight)
• This review will somehow be biased towards my taste in music and my target sound signature.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.

Preliminary

• I’ve used the KZ EDA Bass, Balanced and High Resolution for over 2 weeks with different sources and tips, played different tracks ranging from pop to bossa nova (except Metal).
• I also tested the EDA with stock cable and Kbear 07 eartips, and with CX-31993 as the source.

Equipment

• CX-31993 “Main Source”
• Avani (ALC-5686)
• Abigail (CX-31993)
• LG V20
• Xiaomi Mi 4

Thy Frequency Spectrum
I will review the KZ EDA ignoring its price and only focusing on the sound it offers. This will be a long ride since one of the EDA versions just activates my adrenaline rush as soon as I insert it into my ears. Truth to be told, my experience with the EDA has been a blast for the last 2 weeks, I will sound like a shill after this, but KZ really has outdone their selves this time, I don’t really know what’s happening, it seems like they have awakened something with their driver tech. This isn’t like my enthusiasm with the ZEX Pro (since it’s my first Harman Set), it legit sounds excellent, I even have to confirm it with my non-audiophile friends…

KZ EDA Bass “The Enticing Rumblist”

Bass: 9/10
EDA version with the most enthusiastic and authoritative bass response, beats the DQ6S when it comes to sub bass depth and grandness. Bass lacks the uniqueness (bass air between notes) that their recent model KZ ZES is offering but the texture, tightness and its presence on the soundstage is like two subwoofers on the back of my head. Quantity and quality will easily satisfy bass heads, and people who plays drums or bass guitars will find the bass response of the KZ EDA Bass to be satisfactory as all fundamentals of the said instruments are just shown with poise, detail and articulation. The only issue I have with the EDA Bass is that there’s some track where the bass became the focus of the overall soundscape, while midrange and treble start to lose its redeeming qualities, KZ EDA Balanced version does not have this issue. Using wide bore tips like Kbear 07 highly helps with the bass tightness and cleanliness of the EDA Bass.

Midrange: 7/10
A bit recessed and lean. Midrange lacks refinement; instrument fundamentals does not have enough articulation and weight that the EDA Balanced is offering. Moreover, female vocals are sparkly but sometimes approaches the shout territory specially at higher volumes. Male vocals on the other hand are a bit lusher than the EDA Balanced and leaner than the DQ6S or ZES. Deep male vocals highly benefit with the midrange of the EDA Bass as it’s replayed with weight and lushness, while higher pitched male vocals are somehow thin and wispy.

However, even with the huge bass response as shown in the graphs, the midrange still leans on the brighter side, due to the bass response having this speedy nature rather than a smooth bloomy response that some drivers (LCP, CNT) are offering, reducing the influence of the midbass in the lower midrange by a lot. The caveat of making the bass like what stated above is it results to less warmth and smoothness in the midrange.

Treble: 6/10
Well extended but may come off as harsh and peaky at higher volumes (highly recommend to use a narrow bore tip with the said set), 2kHz and 5khz peaks introduces harshness at the upper midrange and lower treble. At lower volumes however, the treble is very satisfactory. Soundscape begins to show fluttering nuances in the harmonics of pianos, flutes and guitars. There’s also enough air and brilliance within the soundscape which contributes to its open and spacious sound characteristic. Moreover, the EDA Bass version upper treble response has more overall quantity than the High Resolution and Balanced version, making the overall sound more aggressive and strident than the other two.

KZ EDA High Resolution “The Affluent Detailer”

Bass: 6/10
Low in quantity but tight and fast like its brothers. With stock ear tips bass is limp and lacks weight, but with wide bore tips (e.g Kbear 07), bass starts to show its prowess, quality and articulation starts to be noticeable like its brothers but just less in quantity. Subbass rumble is definitely low and midbass is just there to add depth and a bit of weight to the overall sound. Drums and bass guitars sound lean and lacks the fun factor, but has decent details and articulation on the soundscape. Moreover, even if the bass is somehow elevated according to the graphs, the drivers just control it very nicely throughout the spectrum making bass bleed nonexistent.

Overall, bass isn’t that dynamic like its brothers but quality is still there. The low quantity will definitely satisfy neutral heads as it unmasks the lower midrange details and sounds really good with tracks that has inherent punchy bass.

Midrange 6.5/10
One of the best parts of the High-Resolution version, midrange is more transparent than the EDA Balanced but there’s a noticeable shout at the upper midrange making female vocals sparkly and energetic but borderline peaky with some tracks. Instrument fundamentals sounds properly detailed and nuances came off quite nicely. But, due to the lower midbass quantity and higher pinna gain, the overall midrange has a thin character to it which is not that suitable for rock and metal tracks, but excellent for jazz, bossa nova and ambient music. Male and female vocals also have this thinness to them resulting to a very transparent yet tonally off vocals.

Treble 8/10
Due to the focus of the overall sound at the treble area, treble region came off as superbly extended, sparkly and full of air. The treble presentation makes the EDA High Resolution retrieve more microdetails (e.g room reverb) and nuances, soundscape has more air and openness compared to its brothers. Piano and string instruments harmonics are just shown with clarity and articulation making symphonic tracks have this dimensionality and grandness to it.

In summary, just think of High-Resolution version as Heart Mirror Lite. I also didn’t rate the treble as high as the Balanced Version since peaks around 2kHz and 6kHz are more audible with this version.

KZ EDA Balanced “The Dynamic Realist”

Bass: 9/10
Middle-ground quantity between the High Resolution and Bass Version, bass is tight and excellently controlled and textured, there's no bloatiness or mud to be found within the whole frequency spectrum. Subbass also rumbles nicely and has a good heft and depth to it. It isn't as big and authoritative as the KZ ZES but the quality makes up for it. The quality of the bass just makes the bass guitars have this rumbly and textured ring that I think can only be found in higher-end IEMs. Additionally, drums sticking and riffs are also transparent and free from any fuzziness. Truth be told, I can't quite find any fault with the bass, and I much prefer this bass response rather than the Yume Midnight bass. Bass heads and neutral heads will approve of this bass quality and quantity, since the bass isn’t your typical bloomy and soft bass, it’s high quality and never loses its control even with complex tracks. This also might be the best bass response I've heard so far from KZ, no not just from KZ but all of the IEMs I have right now, yes even with EQ.

With all this praise, if I have to nitpick, I think a lesser bass quantity will be more welcome for the balanced version. And this bass quantity should be for the bass version instead.

Midrange 8/10
Both male and female vocals have a tinge of brightness to them, but it is still lush, nuanced and highly detailed. Female vocals are sparkly, well-articulated and has enough energy to sound angelic (it is very eargasmic for JPOP and KPOP). Male vocals also exhibit good weight and raspiness to them, however they still have a bit of leanness and it isn't that organic sounding like the Yume or DQ6S. Tenor singers highly benefits with the midrange of EDA as it is full of clarity and quite energetic.

If I have to summarize it, vocals on the EDA Balanced are transparent, lush and clean, but isn't that smooth sounding. Moreover, instrument fundamentals are highly nuanced and the attacks and decay of notes are well audible. Percussion, strings and wind instruments are superbly transparent and highly nuanced in the whole soundscape.

Treble 9.5/10
Excellently extended and isn't glassy or brittle like the CRA. If I may relate it to the CRA, think of CRA treble but without the hotness, artificialness and aggressiveness. Upper treble has a downward sloping response which is in line with the Harman Target making the overall sound very transparent while avoiding harshness or stridentness. Guitar and higher pitched piano keys are resolved perfectly but may sound too energetic in some tracks. I can't also detect any major peaks when used with Kbear 07 tips, stock tips unfortunately show the 6 and 8kHz peak.

The overall sound of the KZ EDA is slightly lean, making the highlights in the treble area front and center. The sense of dynamics and resolvability of the dynamic driver is clearly flexed here. The harmonics of certain instruments are just retrieved wonderfully in the treble region, while microdetails (e,g room reverb) are slightly muted. Guitars also shines with the said treble presentation, its precise, clean and has enough energy to sound full and dynamic, while also avoiding harshness and sibilance.

To be honest with right eartips KZ EDA Balanced has one of the best treble presentations I've heard so far, on par with Yume Midnight, with EDA Balanced being a tinge brighter, both have the same resolving prowess in the treble region. Surprisingly, the treble presentation has the same characteristic as my ZEX Pro with Elysian X EQ. If you tried the ZEX Pro with that EQ you'll know what I mean with the EDA.



Technicalities

EDA Balanced

• The quality of the dynamic driver in the KZ EDA Balanced just screams quality and fine engineering. The new driver seems to resolve the whole frequency spectrum with finesse and poise, I can’t detect any congestion and frequency bleed that even the Yume Midnight has in some of my tracks. The driver just has this speedy nature that is really hard to find even in the $50 range. The technical prowess of the EDA Balanced driver is an experience I think many people should try even once, its literally screaming “Look at me, I’m more resolving than some of the hybrid sets in the price higher than me!”.
• Soundstage is tall, wide and spacious, it has this wow factor out of the box, and will make your music super engaging and dynamic. Think as if you’re in a concert hall with a hearing booster in your ears, just jamming and watching a certain band do their thing. That’s what it feels like with the EDA Balanced.
• Separation and imaging are excellent, and all instruments has noticeable distances within that tall soundstage, there’s also some tracks where I can somehow feel how high and low some instruments are on the stage (Dear by Ito Kashitaro). The soundstage size of the EDA is I think can only be found in higher end IEMs; it is unreal that you can do this kind of soundstage in this price range…. With all of this praise, however, staging still needs some improvement as some lower pitched instruments are skewed and are a little forward in some songs, but otherwise impressive soundstage and imaging by the EDA Balanced.
• The overall sound isn’t that organic sounding like per say Heart Mirror or Yume, however the dynamics, speed and fun it provides to my library is just a joy to listen to and I much prefer this kind of sound presentation rather than the perfectionist neutral Harman IEMs like the Yume that lacks the energy and more for a critical listener who want to look for flatness in their music rather than to jam with it. Whenever I play my music with the KZ EDA it feels like I’m being rained with energy every time, it’s just the right of aggressiveness for my ears.

Even my non-audiophile friends are banging their head when they play their favorite song in my KZ EDA Balanced. I also let them try my ZEX Pro, Heart Mirror and DQ6S but only the KZ EDA makes them jam like that..hahaha

Click to expand...

EDA Bass

• Driver quality and speed is the same as the balanced version, and technicalities punches way above its price range. The driver has better coherency and performance than the DQ6S and ZES.
• Soundstage is impressive, and is the most immersive out of the three (ZES soundstage can’t even compete), it also has more depth than the Balanced Version.
• Separation and imaging are also excellent even beating my CA16 Pro to pieces, the driver in the EDA just resolve each frequency band with articulation and speed, however even with the immersive soundstage, the staging of instruments are still skewed in some tracks.
• Microdetails, dynamics and timbre are the same as the balanced version, with the Bass Version having more heft to the overall sound.

EDA High Resolution

• The driver speed and resolving prowess are a bit better than the EDA Balanced but some peaks aren’t that controlled or subdued.
• Soundstage is much smaller than its brothers (concert hall like presentation vs small room), but it has a more open and airier feel. The dimensionality of the overall sound is flat and 2D-ish.
• Separation and imaging are also excellent, I can locate the instruments with accuracy within the soundscape, instruments have proper distances to each other and isn’t mushy or veiled. Vocals are also front and center and does not disturb any instruments whatsoever.
• Due to the focus at the treble region and subdued bass response, the overall sound may be perceived as pale and not that dynamic compared to its brothers.

Music Analysis

In this section I will mainly use the EDA Balanced for analysis, some notes will be added for the Bass and High-Resolution Version.

Click to expand...

1. Hamu Test “Multiple tracks arranged by Hamu” (Played in HibyMusic)

The tracks in this section, will test the IEM ability to naturally replay and stage musical instruments like piano, guitar, violin and drums. This section will also test imaging, detail retrieval and separation. Most of the tracks here also hates V-shaped IEMs.

Click to expand...

Most of the tracks in this section are very dynamic, full of energy, superbly detailed and wide sounding. All instruments are full of articulation and nuances, like at the start of track サクラモチ, it literally sounds like I’m in a sidewalk and there a musician jamming with his guitar and triangle, I can feel the whole soundscape and it feels really open and amazingly real. Instruments are distanced 360 degrees around my head and no details are escaping within the soundscape even the attack and decays of cymbals or little sparkling effects at the distance are audible and articulated really well. Additionally, listening to track 流星をくぐって, I can somehow hear how the sound of the waves of the ocean go back and forth while the drums starts to jam at the start… it is just amazing how EDA Balanced retrieves those little details, like I don’t even know if I’m listening to a $30 dollar IEM anymore, its unreal really…oh..ah my hype engine is getting off again, I must stop..hahahah., I’m quite speechless right now on what I’m hearing, I don’t want to analyze this track collection anymore, it’s just beautiful sounding with the EDA Balanced, I also think the replay is much more amazing in the EDA Balanced compared to Yume Midnight…..please someone tell me what’s happening.

Bass Version: too bassy, but almost sound the same as the EDA Balanced with peaks being more noticeable

Click to expand...

High Resolution Version: airier sounding but lacks dynamics, flat sounding, no wow factor.

Click to expand...

Replay Rating: Beautiful

2. Shiroku Yawarakana Hana by Nagi Yanagi (Played in Apple Music)

Female Vocals, Driver Speed, Soundstage, Bass Response, Separation

Click to expand...

What the fudge is this…please help. It sounds beautiful oh no, like the soundstage is really wide and open, Nagi’s voice is lush and super detailed, the instruments also have proper distances within the soundstage and I can imagine how high or low the instruments are, like what the fudge. Plus, at 1:38 there’s splashing effects that are circling at the back of my head and I can imagine how far and close they are to me…. Moreover, the strings, the strings man, like bruh why are they so articulated like all notes are just shown with transparency within the stage even if there’s so much happening in the background. Like, like this is just the same with the Hamu Tracks test but more extreme. Hahaha, this is unfair.. Am I even allowed to listen to this track like this?

Bass Version: has more depth than the EDA Balanced, bass more enthusiastic. Again, it almost sounds the same as the EDA Balanced with peaks being more noticeable

Click to expand...

High Resolution Version: a bit flat sounding, sounds more detailed but dynamics are almost non-existent.

Click to expand...

Replay Rating: Beautiful

3. Roller Coaster by SawanoHiroyuki[Nzk]:Gemie (Played in HibyMusic)

Female Vocals, Driver Speed, Bass Response, Separation, Dynamics

Click to expand...

The synthesizer beat and its nuances throughout the soundscape is clearly audible and are spread out at the back, front, left and right side. The dynamics of this track with KZ EDA Balanced just makes me want to ignore the details and just jam with the music. The bass response throughout the track is just full of texture and slam, while also giving space and air to the midrange and treble. Moreover, little microdetails within the chorus are also retrieved quite wonderfully and they are not that forward or brittle into the mix like the CRA. Gemie vocals is at the edge of being shouty at some point in the track (01:55) but its otherwise sparkly and controlled most of the time. The soundscape is not that wide like my ZEX Pro with Hypocrisy EQ, but the dynamics and microdetails made up for it. Overall, the replay isn’t that natural but the energy that EDA Balanced gives to this track is just amazing and I think many people will enjoy this track with the EDA Balanced.

Bass Version: more bass, more depth to the soundstage, peaky treble edges/transients

Click to expand...

High Resolution Version: too bright, there’s more air and nuances within the soundscape but lacks the energy that its brothers provide.

Click to expand...

Replay Rating: Superb

4. Toumin by Yorushika (Played in Apple Music)

Female Vocals, Midrange Quality, Resolvability, Soundstage

Click to expand...

The electric guitar, bass guitar are drums notes are well defined at the start, and as the rhythm changes at 0:15 the soundscape begins to open and microdetails starts to pop out around my headspace. The cymbals throughout the track maybe perceived as too energetic but the twist is it never sounds harsh, sibilant or peaky, how the driver control the treble region is very good and the attack and decay of cymbal crashes are well articulated within the soundscape. Suis voice throughout the track is sparkly and energetic and never feels recessed or bloated by the bass or treble region. At certain complex part of the track like at (02:22), the EDA Balanced retains its resolvability prowess, like I can still the distances of the instruments within the stage, but the 6kHz and 8kHz peak starts to get noticeable, and cymbals became too forward into the mix.

Bass Version: more soundstage depth, bass guitars are more audible and textured, Suis voice is a bit peakier. Same dynamics but downgraded detail retrieval.

Click to expand...

High Resolution Version: higher pitched instruments are more forward, bass guitars are less audible, cymbals crashes are peakier, Suis voice is leaner and a bit shouty specially at the chorus part. More air and openness compared to Balanced version.

Click to expand...

Replay Rating: Excellent

Comparison
EDA Balanced vs Yume Midnight, CCA CRA, Heart Mirror and KZ ZEX Pro
EDA Balanced beats all of the four IEMs when it comes to dynamics, transients and soundstage immersiveness. Tonal balance, correctness and timbre still go to Yume Midnight, but the overall fun and wow factor goes to EDA Balanced. CCA CRA can go now and get out of this comparison, since EDA is just CRA but refined to a T. Heart Mirror gives a good fight when it comes to organic-ness to the overall sound but falls short when it comes to staging, detail retrieval, bass quality, transparency and overall resolvability. ZEX Pro is more relaxed sounding but has a glaring flaw (12 kHz dip and 8kHz peak), EDA Balanced has no glaring flaw when used with proper eartips and sounds like ZEX Pro with Elysian X EQ. Truth to be told EDA Balanced beats the my ZEX Pro to pieces that its accessories are immediately with the EDA Balanced right after I tried it out of the box, like literally, just right after I played the first track, I know immediately the EDA Balanced will be my dailies.

EDA Bass vs KZ DQ6S, KZ ZES, KZ ZEX and CCA CA16 Pro
Bass cleanliness, quality, and texture goes to EDA Bass. Soundstage immersiveness and detail retrieval also goes to EDA Bass. KZ DQ6S however, wins when it comes to bass bloom and organic replay, ZES on the other hand, wins when it comes to bass air and unique darkish upper treble extended signature, lastly CCA CA16 Pro wins when it comes to quantity and bass rumble. ZEX? lol no.

EDA High Resolution vs CCA CRA, Heart Mirror, KZ EDX
Like its brothers, EDA High Resolution wins when it comes to soundstage, driver speed and dynamics. CRA wins in detail retrieval but most of the time the overall sound is brittle and over sharpened. Heart Mirror crushes the EDA High Resolution when it comes to overall tonal balance and treble response, but EDA gives a good fight nonetheless, EDA is just too lean in most tracks, leaner than HM. However, EDA High Resolution has a more satisfying bass response and is airier sounding than the Heart Mirror, ahmm just think of EDA High Resolution as a Heart Mirror wanna be. EDX? lol no.


Mods
All IEMs in the KZ EDA is somehow sensitive with tips so please tip roll first to appreciate its sound.

1. Kbear KB07
Yes! Recommended and the cheapest option, this will remove the 6 kHz and 8 kHz peaks significantly, widens the soundstage and improves imaging. Also adds more texture to the bass, suitable for all EDA versions. Basically, unlock the prowess of all EDA Version.

2. Stock Starline Tips
No, there’s a peak at 6 kHz and 8 kHz, will not show the true prowess of the EDA. Soundstage is not that wide compared to the other eartips.

3. Radius Deep Mounts
Recommended! If you think that EDA Balanced and EDA Bass is too aggressive, sounds the best with EDA High Resolution, treble transients are much controlled with the RDM tips compared to Kbear 07.

4. Spinfits CP145
Semi-recommended! EDA Balanced and EDA High Resolutions sounds the best with it, however the dynamics and treble resolution will not be the same as the RDM and Kbear 07. Will also make the EDA Bass more v-shaped.

5. Sony EP-EX11 Tips
Only recommended for High Resolution and EDA Bass. Will remove the treble edge that those two have, but the overall soundscape will be darkish and dynamics starts to be subdued.

5. Foam Tips
Recommended! This is just like the RDM tips but treble air is a bit subdued.


Tested Synergies

Lingering Fragments of a Dynamic Realist

Tiandenhere CX-31993, EDA Balanced, Kbear 07 Tips, Nicehck C8-1 Cable

Click to expand...

Perfect synergy, clean, transparent and dynamic replay. I’m still mesmerized by this synergy until now. Both the dongle and EDA Balanced complements each other, EDA Balanced having this dynamism and speed, just lacking control in its transients, and the CX dongle helping the EDA to control its transients and reveal more microdetails in the midrange. Just beautiful. It is literally a needed fragment for the EDA Balanced to sound amazing.

A Mediocre Dynamic Realist

Abigail CX-31993, EDA Balanced, Kbear 07 Tips

Click to expand...

Sounds okayish, but the dynamics and energy of KZ EDA Balanced are not shown properly with this synergy, like it feels like the EDA Balanced hasn’t reached its full potential yet. Plus, midrange isn’t that lush compared to the synergy above.

Wanna-be a Heart Mirror?

Avani, KZ EDA High Resolution, Sony EP EX-11 Tips

Click to expand...

Excellent pairing, this pairing somehow mimics my Heart Mirror but is a little bit lean compared to the real thing. Treble response is almost the same but a bit peakier with EDA High Resolution. Vocal presentation is a hair lusher with HM compared to this synergy. Treble presentation still better than CRA though.

Resolution and Smaller Details

Tiandenhere CX-31993, EDA High Resolution, Radius Deep Mounts

Click to expand...

Unlocks the prowess of the EDA High Resolution, this synergy goes one on one with the first synergy, like they have their own perks and its hard to decide. I’m using this synergy more for my Bossa Nova tracks, while the first synergy is for most of my tracks.

Immersiveness, Depth and Rumble

Tiandenhere CX-31993, EDA Bass, Kbear 07 Tips

Click to expand...

Have you heard the DQ6S? Yeap this isn’t it..hahahhah…but seriously this is better than DQ6S like don’t even. The immersiveness of the soundstage is just unreal, plus that depth? Just wow. The only problem I have with this synergy is that there’s still treble peaks at higher volumes, but at lower volume it’s just eargasmic.

Technical Aspects


Recommend Tracks/Genres

• Jrock/Jpop
• Rock
• Modern Pop
• Old Pop
• RnB
• Trance / EDM
• Hip-hop
• Rap
• Bossa Nova
• Jazz

“Not that good” Tracks

• High Resolution: Most rock tracks and some female vocal tracks that are focused on high notes.
• Bass: Jazz, Acoustic and Orchestra
• Balanced: None

Non-affiliate Links
https://www.kztws.com/products/kz-eda
https://shopee.ph/KZ-EDA-flagship-m...d4&xptdk=21a348d9-31eb-4e71-b039-b32556fb92d4

Overall Rating
KZ EDA Balanced: S (On par with Yume Midnight)
KZ EDA Bass: A+ (Superseding DQ6S)
KZ EDA High Resolution: A (Just below the Bass version)

My Ranking Listo!
Recommended!

Final Words
Just wanted to point out the accessories included in the KZ EDA. The accessories are still standard KZ but the tips are much softer than their old KZ Starline but not that thin compared to DQ6S tips, moreover the cable is much softer and malleable than their old silver cable (the new cable is also more prone to oxidation).

With that out of the way, I’m still amazed at how KZ improved from ZSN Pro X to this, like the jump of sound quality is just unreal, even the CRN can’t come close to EDA sound quality. I think it will be a missed opportunity to not even try this set, cause truth to be told all of EDA IEMs have very good engineered dynamic drivers, like you can hear the quality and how the drivers are refined, the resolvability is just unreal for the price they are asking. If you are still salty about the driver gate issue, then definitely ignore this set, but if you are like me who just love to listen to their library, and just want some eargasmic experience, then I think KZ is doing something here that is worth taking a look.

Finally, thanks for reaching this part! Hope you enjoy the read, even if it is pretty long.

Summary

Sound signature follows crinacle IEF neutral with generous amount of sub-bass boost, lesser lower treble and boosted upper treble which overall contribute to its wide staging. Unlike the OG Yume, Midnight is leaning more towards a U-shaped signature to add more dynamics and microdetails to the overall sound. Bass has enough definition, texture and speed. Additionally, instrument that lies on the lower frequencies are very well defined and free of fuzziness or bloat. Midrange on the other hand like Yume is also refined to perfection, however vocals on the Midnight are leaning towards a warmer tint compared to OG Yume neutral tone. Making male vocals weightier and lusher than the Yume, with the caveat of making female vocals lack the definition and clarity that the OG Yume has. Treble presentation is also carved carefully and there is enough energy at the brilliance region to add dimensionality to the sound. Microdetails and layering are very well present and instruments’ harmonics are well represented without any form of graininess to them. The guitars, piano keys and cymbals attack, death and little nuances are just laid out effortlessly in 360 degrees around my headspace

Click to expand...

Unlike the Yume which might be boring for some due to its neutral signature, Midnight is somehow the opposite of that, and people who love energetic signature may find the Midnight very acceptable for their taste. Midnight has this bite to the overall sound that makes it more engaging and open.

Click to expand...

For technicalities, staging, timbre, layering and imaging are very good for the price range, the soundstage is more spacious than the Yume, and the layering and imaging of the instruments are improved significantly. Separation is also improved as instrument has a more physical and nuanced feel on the stage.

Click to expand...

Disclaimer

• I like to thank Sir Eiji Z. R. for lending me the SeeAudio Yume: Midnight for review.
• Take my review with a lot of salt and always cross reference.
• This review will somehow be biased towards my taste in music and my target sound signature.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.
• You can check My IEM Rankings for better visualization and shortened comparison to my other IEMs.
• As always don't forget to take my review with salt and always cross reference

Preliminary

• I’ve used the Midnight for around two days, used different cheapo dongles as a source, and stock small tips.
• I tested the Midnight with stock cable and eartips, and with Abigail as the source.

My Specific Library
I mostly listen to this artists/group of artists, arranged from frequently to least played:

ShibayanRecords, Mitsukiyo, Nagi Yanagi, Yorushika, Kenshi Yonezu, Yoasobi, Ito Kashitaro, Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran, Sawano Hiroyuki, ChouCho, Weaver, Turnover, The Script and Hoyo-Mix.

I also love to listen to symphonic tracks or tracks with relaxing/magical/nostalgic vibe to it.

My Target Sound Signature
My target sound signature is crinacle’s IEF neutral with sub-bass boost or Harman 2019 v2 with reduced upper mids gain. However, V-shaped or U-shaped will also work as long as there are sufficient technicalities. Congestion, bass bloat, and muddiness are a big no for me.

Equipment

• CX-31993
• Avani (ALC-5686)
• Abigail (CX-31993) “Main Source”
• LG V20
• Xiaomi Mi 4

Thy Frequency Spectrum

The Midnight sound is leaning more to a U-shaped signature and is more open sounding than the OG Yume. There’s also a substantial bass dynamics and instrument dimensionality in the Midnight while retaining the organic timbre of the OG Yume.

Click to expand...

Bass: 5/5
Midnight makes full use of the 9.2 mm liquid silicon diaphragm dynamic driver and new low frequency filter conversion technology (LFC) which contributes to its enthusiastic yet clean bass response. The sub-bass region is more prominent in the mix compared to the midbass, and there’s this satisfying rumble that works very well with bass guitars and cellos, the mid-bass also has a good punch and slam on every beat without covering the details in the midrange. Like the OG Yume, Midnight bass does not bleed into the midrange whatsoever, even if the track call for substantial amount of bass, instruments like lower keys pianos, cellos, and bass guitars has defined extensions and has on-point tonal weight. However, bass heads should be warried as the Midnight does not have the bloom or bass oomph; instead, what the Midnight offers is a clean, textured and accurate bass.

Midrange: 4.5/5
This region is somehow downgraded in my opinion (coming from the Yume), gone now is the nuanced, sparkly and transparent female vocals, it is now replaced with a somehow average female vocal presentation, like it lacks this tingling harmonics or transparency that female leads like Suis and Nagi Yanagi has, I don’t quite feel the vocals now in the Midnight compared to the Yume, which treats female vocals with perfect clarity and tone. Fortunately, male vocals remain weighty but they are a bit lusher than the Yume. Fundamentals of the strings, wind and percussion instrument are still nicely weighted and like the Yume sound tonally correct and accurate. Moreover, due to the dip around 4-5 kHz, vocals on the Midnight avoids going to the edge of shoutiness unlike the Yume (tested with Kyoumen no Nami - Yurika). Playing all of tracks in my library with the Midnight, I can quite confirm that they are also an all-rounder like the Yume but works wonders with genres like rock and indie.

Treble: 5/5
The Midnight's treble response is nearly identical to that of the original Yume, but with greater extensions, sparkle and dimensionality. Midnight retains this smooth, calm, relaxing treble presentation that the OG Yume has. However, to my ears, the lower treble of the Midnight is extra-soft; which makes electronics guitars sound a little muted or lacking the bite compared to other string instrument, aside from this nitpick, the treble region is quietly carved well, the boost in the upper treble also gives this dimensionality and separation to the instrument which also helps in microdetail retrieval which the OG Yume does not have.

Technicalities

• Like the Yume, Midnight coherency between the two balanced armatures and one dynamic driver is quite excellent, however I can quite hear a BA timbre in the female vocals specially alto types which the OG Yume does not exhibit.
• Soundstage is expansive and instruments has this nuanced physicality on the stage. Width and height are above average while depth is below average for the price.
• Separation and layering are also excellent considering the price. All instrument is properly separated and properly placed on the stage, I can’t detect any instance where an instrument smear into another instrument or vocals. Imaging is also very accurate; I can quite point out the specific sound bubbles on where the instrument lies on and they have this fixed position on the stage.
• Driver resolvability is also improved over the OG Yume, microdetails and microdetails are more audible than the Yume, and I can hear more nuances in the whole music compared to OG Yume while also retaining the natural feel to the attack and decay of notes.

Music Analysis

Kindly, click the title of the section to listen to the tracks

Click to expand...

1. Hamu Test “Multiple tracks arranged by Hamu” (Played in HibyMusic)

The tracks in this section, will test the IEM ability to naturally replay and stage musical instruments like piano, guitar, violin and drums. This section will also test imaging, detail retrieval and separation. So far, the only IEM I have that masterfully replay this section are Yume:Midnight and Heart Mirror with rating of Superb. Most of the tracks here also hates V-shaped IEMs.

Click to expand...

Yeap, another amazing replay by the Midnight just like the Yume. Layering and staging of the instruments are just open and feels so natural. Even if there’s a more significant bass on the Midnight macrodetails and microdetails are just retrieved wonderfully throughout all of my Hamu tracks, pianos, guitars and percussions have correct timbre and are very detailed, more detailed than the Yume. Little nuances or cues also pop in and out of my headspace quite nicely, which is such an eargasm…ngl. I can’t also detect any over sharpening or artificial tone to the instruments. Staging is also quite nice; all instrument feels like they are jamming around a small concert hall. The only thing that I don’t like with the Midnight is that the replay of the guitars is quite soft and lacking the bite compared to Yume.

Overall! Quite eargasmic and open sounding replay by the Midnight, excellent.

Replay Rating: Superb


2. The Clouds and the Ghost by Yorushika (Played in HibyMusic)

Female Vocals, Staging, Harmonics, Bass Response

Click to expand...

Do I even need to analyze in this song, Yume plays this quite perfectly and Midnight add more spice to the sound, like its more open sounding than the Yume, while still retaining the timbre of the Yume. I don’t even know what’s happening anymore…Again do I even need to analyze this song…. It’s just perfect, like all of the things I want in this song is just laid out properly with finesse and style. I don’t even know what to say anymore. If I have to nitpick, maybe Suis voice is a little bit metallic compared to the Yume? But aside from that the replay of this track is just perfect from top to bottom.
Also, I have to point out that microdetails are more audible in the Midnight compared to Yume.

Replay Rating: Superb


3. Daydream by Kenshi Yonezu (Played in HibyMusic)

Male Vocals, Staging, Imaging

Click to expand...

The portrayal of the starry night background at the start is organic and realistic, it sounds open and holographic. Kenshi's voice is lush, weighted, and accurate sounding, The cowbells and piano are also clean, transparent and detailed sounding. The bass…yeah the bass, it is just clean and tight, it just rumbles cleanly, excellent texturing and slam. Finally, microdetails magically appears on the wide soundstage like at 01:11 forward, the cowbell comes to be crisp and little nuances can be heard after the bell has rung. All of that happens even if the bass on this track is quite enthusiastic. Amazing replay overall.

Replay Rating: Superb

Comparison
ZEX Pro vs Midnight
Both IEMs follows the crinacle IEF neutral target very generously but one is unrefined and the other one polished and refined to the max. Yeah this isn’t a fair comparison and there’s already a clear winner with this comparison. But let me list what improvements does Midnight brings that makes it stand above the ZEX Pro. First is the timbre, even if the midrange and treble is handled by the balanced armature in the Midnight, the metallic tone that plagues ZEX Pro are non-existent with the Midnight, the midrange and treble are just smooth, organic sounding and free of any timbral inconsistencies unlike ZEX Pro. Midnight does not have the unrefined treble that ZEX Pro has. Once you wear the Midnight, the refinement you will hear will spread all over the place, from lowest bass lines up to the highest treble. Like think of ZEX Pro but without any of its issues in the treble and is also buffed to a T. Technicalities are also miles ahead with the Midnight, it has wider stage, clearer imaging, fantastic layering and top-notch detail retrieval compared to ZEX Pro. So yeap, if you are looking for an upgrade and you really like ZEX Pro signature but you hate EQ-ing and wanted a refined version of it, just save up and buy Midnight, it’s what you are looking for. However, this comparison becomes blur as we EQ ZEX Pro to a certain IEM (kindly check 𝗪𝗜𝗟𝗗𝗖𝗔𝗥𝗗 section.) 𝗠𝗶𝗱𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝘀

Heart Mirror vs Midnight
Again bye bye Heart Mirror, Midnight isn’t a real upgrade to the HM perse since it somehow has a different vocal presentation than the HM, and I much recommend you go with the Yume rather than Midnight if you like a refined HM signature. But let’s compare the two nonetheless. First, bass in the Midnight has more texture, punch and slam, while HM is a little shy when it comes to the bass region, it is still textured and clean. HM also lacks the refinement that Midnight has. Second, midrange, if you see my review of the Yume, my thought about Midnight is also the same, vocals in the Midnight are just accurate, lush and detailed, HM can’t even. However, the vocals are not bad in the HM, it got around 70-80% vocal quality of the Yume and Midnight. Lastly is the treble, HM treble is quite unrefined when compared side by side with the Midnight, there’s no comparison really, Midnight treble is miles better than the Heart Mirror, however Heart Mirror has this niche with the string instruments that Midnight does not have, like the strings with Heart Mirrors just sound crispy and detailed compared to Midnight softish dynamics with string instruments. If you like string instruments then yeah you can consider the Heart Mirror.

Midnight is clearly the winner here due to the technicalities and tonal balance, but Heart Mirror give off a good fight not gonna lie. 𝗠𝗶𝗱𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝘀

Yume vs Midnight
Yeah, I don’t need to compare this two, Midnight is basically an improved and refined Yume, like everything in the Midnight is just miles ahead better than the Yume (while retaining the vocal clarity on the Yume), you may lose the breathy and nuanced vocals that Yume has but Midnight converts that niche to a much nicer and all-rounder sound signature plus it has wider stage… just buy the Midnight you don’t need more reason as to why. 𝗠𝗶𝗱𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝗻𝘀


Wildcard Comparison
ZEX Pro Elysian EQ'ed (Asters) vs Midnight

EQs for the ZEX Pro can be downloaded here: ZEX Pro Equalization Sets

Click to expand...

Wondering why is this here? Cause in all honesty I can’t quite get the price increase when I compare the ZEX Pro and Midnight side by side, specially if you can just EQ the ZEX Pro to fix its issues. You might be thinking that I might be inhaling a lot of copium right now (maybe yes), but the EQ ZEX Pro just sounds better for my library and my ears, Midnight becomes boring and lifeless in comparison when the ZEX Pro has been EQ-ed out.

P.S I will call the ZEX Pro EQ’ed as Asters for easier identification.

Click to expand...

Bass:
Bass in Asters are much dynamic, punchy and tight, all instruments in the bass region just sounds dynamic, open and full of slam. Midnight in comparison is limpy and soft. It’s true that the bass in the Midnight is more accurate however, Aster bass just makes me wanna jam and ignore any analysis in the song, it makes me wanna bang my head, and that’s what important. Aster’s bass just make me lost in the music.

Midrange:
This region goes to Midnight undoubtedly, the refinement in this region is just in full throttle with the Midnight, all vocals sound correct and timbre is spot-on. Aster on the other hand is a little thin in the vocals, it is still full of nuances and details but not as lush sounding as the Midnight. For tracks that is focused on the vocals I’ll take the Midnight anytime.

Treble:
This is where the real “coping mechanism” starts. Ironically, I like the Asters' treble more, it is just more open, detailed and sparkly, guitars, cymbals and other high noted instrument just sound crispy compared to Midnight dull presentation of those instrument. The treble makes me wanna jam and ignore everything, that’s how good it is, plus the nuances are just on full-on throttle with the Aster, like everything in the music is hyperdetailed and the music just becomes more dynamic and wider. Midnight can’t even touch it, yeah Midnight is tonally correct, but I’d rather have a fun listen rather than to look for mistakes in my music like a grumpy old man.

Technicalities:
Soundstage goes to Asters, it is just wider and more open than the Midnight. Layering also goes to the Asters, the instruments are just cleanly separated within that wide soundstage. Timbre goes to Midnight of course. Staging goes to Aster, the placement of the instruments with the Aster are just top notch, like my hearing is being enhanced and buffed everytime I focus on a certain instrument. With that copium comparison out of the way. Aster wins, yeap you read that right

See my "coped" rankings here: Xeruskun Ratings

Tested Synergies
The Boring Synergy
(Avani + Midnight with stock cable and small eartips)
Excellent pairing, but the sound is warmer than the other sets. Vocals are also lusher and weightier in this synergy compared to the ones below. Like the effect with the Yume, this synergy also gives the Midnight vocals a nice breathiness and transparency. Vocal clarity are quite top notch in this synergy. Soundstage is unaffected in any way, still the same as the other synergies.

Details Enthusiasts
(Abigail + Midnight with stock cable and small eartips)
The most detailed synergy out of the two. Vocals are less nuanced, but instrument like guitars has more energy/bite at the top compared to the other sets. Soundstage is also unaffected, still wide and open.


Technical Aspects
Shown in this section are the frequency response of the DQ6s. The measurements are taken by a Dayton IMM-6 Mic with a DIY Tube Coupler, so assume that this measurements are not that accurate compared to the graphs released by the reviewers who have an IEC-711 coupler. Suggestions about this section are always welcome.

CSD Plot Parameters are based on this blog:
https://diyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/tutorials/how-to-interpret-graphs/csdwaterfall-spectrum/​

Click to expand...

Recommend Tracks/Genres
All Genres

“Not that good” Tracks
None

Overall Rating
S+ (Relative to my IEMs) (Superseding Heart Mirror)
S (Relative to Price)
Highly Recommended!

Addendum
The Midnight will be my official best sounding IEM in my collection and will be used as reference for my later reviews. And of course, it will be placed right at the top of my ranking list. Additionally, as you can notice at the title “Asters' Long Awaited Gentle Harmony”, the long-awaited gentle harmony pertains to the sub-200 dollars sound that I wanted to try for a long time. Since, all of my reviews only revolve around KZ iems, I need a certain standard to further strengthen the reliability of my reviews. It is also a really informative experience for me to hear what higher priced gears has to offer.

Summary

Sound signature adheres to the Harman 2019 Target with lesser pinna gain and a safe sub-bass boost concentrated around 30-50 Hz. Very good for tracks with female lead, jazz and acoustic tracks. Bass is punchy and textured however it lacks the slam and quantity that bassheads are looking for, not recommend for them. Midrange on the other hand is refined to a T, vocals clarity is top notch (female vocalist are front and center, full of clarity and nuances), and instrument just sound tonally correct. Treble presentation is also safe and free of harshness, even if the treble is subdued in this IEM, instrument harmonics are still audible, guitars, piano keys and cymbals are full of details even if the staging is quite average.

Click to expand...

Might also be boring for some due the balanced signature. Since no part of the frequency is giving that bite or somebody may call it niche, all frequencies are just nicely laid out in a flat plane.

Click to expand...

For technicalities, staging, layering and imaging are quite average for the price range, the soundstage width and height closely resembles Heart Mirror, but with better imaging and layering of the instruments.

Click to expand...

Disclaimer

• I like to thank Sir Chris R. for lending me the SeeAudio Yume for review.
• This review will somehow be biased towards my taste in music and my target sound signature.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.
• You can check My IEM Rankings for better visualization and shortened comparison to my other IEMs.
• As always don't forget to take my review with salt and always cross reference

Preliminary

• I’ve used the SeeAudio Yume for around one and a half day, use different cheapo dongles as a source, and stock small tips.
• I tested the SeeAudio Yume with stock cable and eartips, and with Abigail as the source.

My Specific Library
I mostly listen to this artists/group of artists, arranged from frequently to least played:

ShibayanRecords, Mitsukiyo, Nagi Yanagi, Yorushika, Kenshi Yonezu, Yoasobi, Ito Kashitaro, Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran, Sawano Hiroyuki, ChouCho, Weaver, Turnover, The Script and Hoyo-Mix.

I also love to listen to symphonic tracks or tracks with relaxing/magical/nostalgic vibe to it.

My Target Sound Signature
My target sound signature is crinacle’s IEF neutral with sub-bass boost or Harman 2019 v2 with reduced upper mids gain. However, V-shaped or U-shaped will also work as long as there are sufficient technicalities. Congestion, bass bloat, and muddiness are a big no for me.

Equipment

• CX-31993
• Avani (ALC-5686)
• Abigail (CX-31993) “Main Source”
• LG V20
• Xiaomi Mi 4

Thy Frequency Spectrum

The sound signature is mid-centric and vocals especially female vocals are highlighted front and center, full of clarity and nuances while all instrument occupies my headspace in 360, quite eargasmic to say the least.

Click to expand...

Bass: 4/5
Textured and clean but lacks the punch, slam and quantity that bassheads are looking for. Bass bleed is non-existent and the bass is not taking the front stage whatsoever. There still a lite subbass rumble that makes bass guitars defined however kick drums lack the impact and feels lean most of the time. Overall, the bass is quite average with the Yume, I don’t quite get the $100 vibe in the bass region.

Midrange: 5/5
This region is the highlight of this IEM. Vocals are detailed, clear and nuanced, instrument fundamentals are also nicely weighted, percussion, wind, and string instrument sound tonally correct and has this nice lushness to them. Some vocals especially alto and soprano types may approach the edge of shoutiness at times, but rarely occurs (e.g Kyoumen no Nami - Yurika). And surprisingly even if there’s no midbass hump that makes male vocals forward and lively, male vocals never feel lean nor thin. Running all my tracks with the Yume I can quite say that they are definitely an all-rounder, all my tracks from Ito Kashitaro (may sound sibilant on IEMs with 2kHz peak) to witch (one of the Toho Bossa Nova female vocalist) sounds refined and correct. Nothing to complain in the midrange to be honest.

Treble: 5/5
Organic, safe and just right. I think this is the region where also excels at. The treble region is just refined and free of any harshness. Even if the treble region lacks the air frequencies, instrument harmonics are still audible and microdetails still pop in and out within my headspace. Instrument like cymbals and electric guitars also has this nice definition to them and never feel harsh, peaky nor too sharpened, it is just right. Not gonna lie, I find the treble quite enjoyable and is one of the things that I like with the Yume.

Technicalities

• The coherency between the two balanced armatures and one dynamic driver is quite excellent, I can’t quite point out where the balanced armature or dynamic driver ends. The overall presentation of bass, midrange and treble is smooth and free of any driver phasing inconsistencies.
• Soundstage is average for the price they are asking for; it does not have this wide feeling that even cheaper IEMs provide (e.g CCA CRA). Width and height are average while depth is below average. Soundstage is somehow similar in size with the Hzsound Heart Mirror.
• Separation and layering are quite average considering the price. Most instrument are properly separated and has that physicality on the stage however some of them (e.g bass guitars) may sound smooth at times and may lack the 3D feel. Imaging is very accurate there’s no instance where the vocals or other instrument smears one another, if you like the Heart Mirror then this IEM improves on the staging and layering part while also retaining the stage of the HM.
• Driver resolvability is excellent, microdetails and microdetails are portrayed properly, attack and decay of notes also feels organic and natural, it’s just “right”.

Music Analysis

Kindly, click the title of the section to listen to the tracks

Click to expand...

1. Hamu Test “Multiple tracks arranged by Hamu” (Played in HibyMusic)

The tracks in this section, will test the IEM ability to naturally replay and stage musical instruments like piano, guitar, violin and drums. This section will also test imaging, detail retrieval and separation. So far, the only IEM I have that masterfully replay this section are Yume:Midnight and Heart Mirror with rating of Superb. Most of the tracks here also hates V-shaped IEMs.

Click to expand...

Yeap, quite amazing replay by the Yume. Layering and staging of the instruments are just unreal. The bass shelf of the Yume also helps on revealing macrodetails in all of my Hamu tracks, pianos, guitars and percussions are lush and feels so natural and highly detailed. Microdetails also pop in and out of my headspace quite nicely, which is such an eargasm for me…ngl…fudging nice. I can’t also detect any over sharpening or artificial tone to the said instruments. Staging is also quite nice, all instrument feels like they are jamming around my headspace, the carton box feel that I have with some of the tracks I tested is non-existent with my Hamu tracks.

Approved! The replay of the Yume with Hamu tracks are beautiful nothing to complain here.

Replay Rating: Superb



2. The Clouds and the Ghost by Yorushika (Played in HibyMusic)

Female Vocals, Staging, Harmonics, Bass Response

Click to expand...

ZEX Pro made me fall in love with this track already, and Yume does it in another level..Do I even need to analyze this..hahhahha…I just want to listen to this masterpiece. Darn it… The replay is quite unreal. The clock, chime, bells, guitars, gentle whisper and water droplets at the start and throughout the track feels so real with the Yume, like its 200% more natural sounding than the ZEX Pro. I can also locate the little nuances and details on the song one by one without any efforts at all, plus the harmonics (echoes) decays so naturally like..I don’t even know what to say anymore..the replay is just so refined and beautiful. Don’t forget Suis’ voice, it’s not that sharp like Heart Mirror or thinnish like ZEX Pro but, like, it’s very natural I can’t explain it, I fudging love how Yume plays this track, I’m quite in awe.

Replay Rating: Superb


3. Hello Euphoria by Turnover (Played in HibyMusic)

Timbre, Male Vocals, Mids Quality, Driver Speed

Click to expand...

Yeap another track where Yume excels at, simply beautiful. I don’t know what’s happening but the vocal on this track is more laid back compared to my Yorushika and Yoasobi tracks. The timbre and tonality are also spot on, plus the little nuances in the drums and the overall nostalgic vibe are excellently portrayed by the Yume. The harmony between the guitars, vocals, and drums is also euphoric as fudge.

The staging and layering are also excellent, can’t comment on this anymore. A perfect track with the Yume.

Replay Rating: Superb


Comparison
ZEX Pro vs Yume
One is a cheap attempt on balanced tuning, and one using costly drivers to deliver a mid-centric signature. I know this is an unfair comparison since ZP is $35 while Yume is around $169, but you know what? ZEX Pro quitely trade blows with the Yume. They almost have the same tonal balance it is just that ZEX Pro has this weird treble glare in some tracks. Yume on the other hand, is so refined sounding its hard-to-find a fault in its tuning, plus the technicalities and timbre of the Yume is just miles ahead better than the ZEX Pro. I know ZEX Pro is quite obliterated in this comparison, but when KZ decided to fix the upper treble of the ZEX Pro that’s when this comparison will make sense. Cause you know, EQ’ed ZEX Pro is quite there on the tops. You really just need to EQ ZEX Pro to appreciate it and that’s a bummer. Yume wins

Heart Mirror vs SeeAudio Yume
Budget champ of neutrality versus audiophile’s “female vocals specialist”. Okay bye bye Heart Mirror, yeap this is a clear upgrade path to Heart Mirror, like Yume has that HM niche (enticing female vocals clarity) while also providing a refined soundstage and layering with the instruments. Like Yume is just like a technical Heart Mirror, Heart Mirror users, save up and just be contended with the Yume, you don’t need any more upgrade than this imho. Yume wins

Midnight vs Yume
Yeah, I don’t need to compare this two, Midnight is basically an improved and refined Yume, like everything in the Midnight is just miles ahead better than the Yume (while retaining the vocal clarity on the Yume), you may lose the breathy and nuanced vocals that Yume has but Midnight converts that niche to a much nicer and all-rounder sound signature plus it has wider stage… just buy the Midnight you don’t need more reason as to why. 𝗠𝗶𝗱𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝗻𝘀

ZES vs Yume
Vocals still goes to Yume, ZES lacks the clarity and nuanced that the Yume has. Bass goes to ZES, the big chunky dynamic driver that ZES has just slams quite hard while retaining that texture and tightness. Yume is lacking on the bass department. Treble goes to Yume, treble is just nicely tuned with the Yume, there’s no harshness or discernable peaks. Technicalities goes to ZES, like ZES gives that nice studio feel plus macrodetails and microdetails are much more audible in the ZES compared to Yume. 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 tie, they have different sound signatures, one will satisfy basshead, the other one will satisfy vocal lovers.


Tested Synergies
Warmth and Immersion Set
(Avani + Yume with stock cable and small eartips)
Very nice pairing, but the sound is duller than the “Soundstage Revealer”. Instrument are also lusher and weightier in this synergy compared to the ones below. This synergy also gives the vocals that nice breathiness to them, I can quite hear vocal nuances that are absent in the other synergies. Soundstage in this synergy is the crampiest of all of the synergies.

Soundstage Revealer
(Abigail + Yume with stock cable and small eartips)
Soundstage in this synergy has more width and height. Vocals are also nuanced but not as much as the “Weighted Synergy”. Overall tonal balance is all right, layering and staging is much better than the other synergies.

Details Extraction
(OG CX-31993 + Yume with stock cable and small eartips)
Soundstage is more deep and sub-bass is also more audible in this synergy. Vocals are pushed back at the back of my head and nuances are somehow muted compare to the other synergies. Microdetails are also more audible in this synergy compared to the ones on the top.


Technical Aspects
Shown in this section are the frequency response of the DQ6s. The measurements are taken by a Dayton IMM-6 Mic with a DIY Tube Coupler, so assume that this measurements are not that accurate compared to the graphs released by the reviewers who have an IEC-711 coupler. Suggestions about this section are always welcome.

CSD Plot Parameters are based on this blog:
https://diyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/tutorials/how-to-interpret-graphs/csdwaterfall-spectrum/​

Click to expand...

Recommend Tracks/Genres
All Genres (aside from very sibilant and alto/soprano dominant vocal tracks)

“Not that good” Tracks
None, maybe Metal?

Overall Rating
S (Relative to my IEMs) (Superseding Heart Mirror)
A (Relative to Price)
Recommended! Specially for vocal lovers.

Addendum
I've tried EQ-ing the SeeAudio Yume to fit Yume:Midnight frequency response, and yeah raising up the upper treble through EQ fixes the average soundstage of Yume. Quite wider sounding now compared to non-EQ.

Equalization Files: Yume v1 to Yume: Midnight Simulation

Summary

Sound signature is U-shaped with good vocal clarity and treble extension. Bass is concentrated around 30-400 Hz, giving the bass a nice slam, adds more punch to the drums/bass guitars, and lushness to the male vocals without masking (overstepping) instrument fundamentals and female vocals. The overall presentation can be perceived as dark sometimes due to the subdued pinna gain, however this dark tint to the sound is mixed with great treble extension that adds soundstage and dimensionality to the instruments. The whole soundscape feels like a small studio room where instruments are placed around my headspace. Other technicalities like (imaging, separation, resolution) are improved over KZ DQ6S, timbre is less natural than the DQ6S.

Click to expand...

Disclaimer

• I like to thank KZ/CCA for providing me a review unit of KZ ZES
• This review will somehow be biased towards my taste in music and my target sound signature.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.
• As always don't forget to take my review with salt and always cross reference

Preliminary

• I’ve used the ZES for over 1 week with different sources and tips, played different tracks ranging from pop to bossa nova (except Metal).
• I also tested the ZES with stock cable, Sony EP EX11 eartips, and Abigail as the source.

My Specific Library
I mostly listen to this artists/group of artists, arranged from frequently to least played:

ShibayanRecords, Mitsukiyo, Nagi Yanagi, Yorushika, Kenshi Yonezu, Yoasobi, Ito Kashitaro, Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran, Sawano Hiroyuki, ChouCho, Weaver, Turnover, The Script and Hoyo-Mix.

I also love to listen to symphonic tracks or tracks with relaxing/magical/nostalgic vibe to it.

My Target Sound Signature
My target sound signature is crinacle’s IEF neutral with sub-bass boost or Harman 2019 v2 with reduced upper mids gain. However, V-shaped or U-shaped will also work as long as there are sufficient technicalities. Congestion, bass bloat, and muddiness are a big no for me.

Equipment

• CX-31993
• Avani (ALC-5686)
• Abigail (CX-31993) “Main Source”
• LG V20
• Xiaomi Mi 4

Thy Frequency Spectrum

When I first heard the ZES, my first thought was “This is just a DQ6S with soundstage, more microdetails and a boosted upper treble” is KZ sure with this? And from that my admiration with ZES’ sound continues to grow. I mean this isn’t influenced by any influencers/reviewers, this is KZ owns tuning, like there’s no harsh treble or vocal shout to be found, the sound is just smooth and very pleasing, plus there’s decent resolution throughout the mix. ZEX Pro is still my number one when it comes to sound signature, but you know ZES is trading blows with my ZPs, I like them more than the CRA, which is considered “the BEST KZ/CCA” by many.

Click to expand...

Bass: 5/5
The bass on the ZES has this certain spice factor that is quite hard to explain. It isn’t like any KZ bass I’ve heard before; the bass has this dominating and open feel that isn’t bleeding or making the midrange fuzzy whatsoever, it’s isn’t like the DQ6S where it hits you with rumble and slam, the bass on ZES has this specific definition and presence that gives bass guitars and drums a lot of punch while also being airy (the said instruments seem to have air between each notes). Our fellow audiophile Practiphile, call this bass characteristic as “bass air”, which I quietly agree. If you like a unique bass flavor then get the ZES, this is the only KZ IEM that does the bass like what I’ve said above.

On to the boring stuff, like other KZ sets, ZES also has a (10 dB) significant sub-bass boost that makes the bass notes quite rumbly, making the ZES very good with EDM and bass heavy tracks. There’s also a midbass hump which stops gliding at 400 Hz, this midbass quantity gives an authoritative slam to the mix and a warm tint to the vocals without masking the details on the midrange that much. (if you don’t like this coloration, kindly check other IEMs)

Midrange: 4/5
Male vocals are forward in the mix, while female vocals are recessed and soft sounding. Instrument fundamentals are well-bodied and never feels lean. Drums, pianos, and guitars are well defined and never feels fuzzy or blunted. However, what I don’t like about the midrange is there are some occasions where the vocals tend to be chesty (this specifically applies to the female vocals.). Female vocals also lack the clarity and sparkle that their other sets offer (CRA and ZEX Pro). Male vocals on the other hand, closely resembles how ZEX presents male vocals, it has this nice lushness that is quite eargasmic with alternative rock or indies (e.g Turnover). Another thing that makes the ZES well-tuned is that there’s no shoutiness in the female vocals and they are kept at bay at all times, the midrange just sounds smooth and safe and I think many people will quite be surprised that this is how KZ presents their midrange now.

Treble: 5/5
For the treble, think of DQ6S or ZEX but with sparkly yet fatigue free treble. The boost of the treble is highly concentrated at the upper regions which makes guitars and violins not too strident or sharp. Moreover, the dips at 3kHz and 6kHz also contributes to the treble not being too harsh nor bright. The upper treble boost gives this dimensionality to the overall sound, instrument feels like they have distance within the stage and they can easily be located without forcing you to do it.

Very matured and nicely done treble presentation by KZ, my library quietly like it, 5 you go.

Technicalities

• The coherency between the dynamic driver and magnetostat is quite noticeable, the magnetostat seems to start to take over around 5 kHz, making the treble a bit digital sounding. However, this characteristic makes the overall sound wide, spacious and a little speedy.
• Soundstage size is similar to a small studio room. It has an above average width and height (wider than the ZEX Pros and CRA). However, depth is mediocre, since all of the instrument are placed in front and there’s not that much dimensionality at the back of my head.
• Separation, imaging and staging are decent but not quite at the level of ZEX Pros. However, ZES is more competent in this area compared to the DQ6S. Instrument in the ZES are not placed too close to me like the DQ6S, all instrument has this distance and physicality to them and never feels intrusive or unpleasant. Separation is average as there are some times where instruments smear each other and some microdetails cannot be separated that well (e.g Asterhythm by Nagi Yanagi).
• Driver speed is decent, attack and decay of notes feels organic however higher notes may sound too fast or a bit digitalish. The drivers can also handle complex tracks, however midbass bleed may occur in some heavy-bass tracks.

Music Analysis

Kindly, click the title of the section to listen to the tracks

Click to expand...

1. Hamu Test “Multiple tracks arranged by Hamu” (Played in HibyMusic)

The tracks in this section, will test the IEM ability to naturally replay and stage musical instruments like piano, guitar, violin and drums. This section will also test imaging, detail retrieval and separation. So far, the only IEM I have that masterfully replay this section are ZEX Pro and Yume: Midnight with rating of Superb. Most of the tracks here also hates V-shaped IEMs.

Click to expand...

Yeay! The bass isn’t too forward like the DQ6S. The bass on the ZES is the bass response I’m looking for my Hamu (Bossa Nova) tracks, dominant yet clean, the bass of ZES does not hit hard like the DQ6S but its presence are kept at the back of my head and the rumble and slam feels so open making the overall soundscape airy and spacious, fudging love how the ZES presents the bass of my Hamu tracks, I still like my ZEX Pro overall, but maan, the unique presentation of ZES bass just pulls me in everytime.

As for the timbre of the instruments with these tracks. Percussion and wind instruments sound a bit muted and lacking of clarity, but strings and drums has a nice body making them organic sounding while the later instrument sound a bit digitalish and unengaging. However even if there’s an issue with the timbre. Just how the ZES presents the overall soundscape is a big win for me, it’s just wide, airy and full of details, quite addicting.

Replay Rating: Superb


2. Asterhythm by Nagi Yanagi (Played in Apple Music)

Female Vocals, Driver Speed, Bass Response, Separation

Click to expand...

This song test how fast or how resolving the drivers of the ZES is. But before going to the timestamp let me share how Nagi sounded like. Nagi’s voice throughout the track is clear and defined, however I can’t hear the echoes of her voice at 00:24. Moreover, the lushness of her voice throughout the track is quite lovable and engaging, but it’s quite chesty in some parts of the track (chorus part). As the chorus came in, the track starts to get complicated and bass starts to be enthusiastic, thankfully, ZES handles the chorus quitely nicely, it isn’t as clean as the Yume: Midnight per say, but Nagi’s voice is still audible even with the starry night like background, bass rumble, synthesizer and piano jamming as hard as they can at the chorus. At 02:49, the most complex part of the track, ZES bass remains clean and punchy, however some nuances and microdetails starts to be masked by the treble, and unfortunately the resolution starts to degrade and vocals became more recessed. Generally, this is a common phenomenon in most KZ sets (exception: ZEX Pro) and even my Hzsound Heart Mirror can’t retrieve that time stamp that well, however what I liked is that the bass never lose its tightness and texture throughout the track and that time stamp.

Replay Rating: Excellent


3. Hibernation (Toumin) by Yorushika (Played in HibyMusic)

Female Vocals, Driver Speed, Bass Response, Separation

Click to expand...

The drums and guitars at the start are well-weighted and sounds organic. Each instrument feels like they are within my left and right headspace and does not feel to close or too far away from me. Suis’ voice is lacking a bit of energy at the start and the chorus, but it’s definitely much clearer sounding than the DQ6S. Suis voice also lacks the nuances and echoes within the stage and sounds a bit flat compared to the instrument within the track. Bass guitars are excellently defined and you can hear each note changing up and down to the rhythm, it never loses it details throughout the track.

Replay Rating: Above Average


4. The Boy and Magic Robot by Ito Kashitaro (Played in Apple Music)

Timbre, Male Vocals, Mids Quality, Stage

Click to expand...

The wind instrument that makes the nostalgic tune at the start is replayed quite naturally by the ZES. Ito Kashitaro voice is also lush and warm, it never feels shouty or harsh.

Ahhmm..Let’s talk about how ZES presents the soundstage of this track…oh maann..it’s quite wide, like really wide, it feels like I’m in a concert watching Ito Kashitaro at the top of the stage. I’m just in awe while listening to this track. Plus, the instrument (guitars, synthesizer and drums) has their own position on that stage and their timbre is also in the organic side. I can’t quite analyze this track anymore, if you have ZES just listen to this track and be in awe.

Replay Rating: Superb


Comparison

ZEX vs ZES
The ZES should be the upgrade to the ZEX and not the ZEX Pro, like listening from ZEX to ZES is just an upgrade. With ZEX Pro I need to adjust my ears for some time (assuming that I came from ZEX), since ZEX just sounds too different compared to ZEX Pro. ZES on the other hand feels like a clean and refined version of the ZEX, like everything I wish that ZEX has, wide stage, less bass and safer treble is all with the ZES. Just think of ZES as an upgraded ZEX. ZES wins obviously.

ZEX Pro vs ZES
ZEX Pro has lesser bass, more details in the midrange, more transparent female and male vocals, and better imaging. ZES has a unique bass response, lusher vocals, wider stage but mushier staging, and less transparent overall sound. ZEX Pro wins due to my library, but ZES gives a good fight.

CRA vs ZES
CRA is brighter, more aggressive, harsher, and more digital sounding. ZES is more organic, warmer, has wider soundstage, and more natural vocals. I really don’t understand the CRA hype truth to be told, it sounds too artificial for me and the treble sounds somehow distorted the longer I use it. That’s why ZES wins, CRA will be downgraded to A- rank in my ranking list.

DQ6S vs ZES
DQ6S is more organic, has a more correct timbre and has an enthusiastic and rumbly bass. ZES on the other hand is just a DQ6S but with lesser bass rumble, wider soundstage, better imaging and has a more competent detail retrieval. For my Japanese library, ZES works like wonder, DQ6S on the other hand specifically just works for my western stuffs.

Due to the inflexibility of DQ6S to my daily playlist. ZES wins.


Mods
Stock cable will work fine for the KZ ZES, however there’s also some noticeable improvement when using different eartips.

1. Stock Starline Tips (a.k.a KZ Starlines Reborn)
No, it sounds harsh with this the stock tips, change the stock tips with whatever tips you have.

2. Sony EP-EX11
Yes! Recommended, the sony tips will remove the treble harshness significantly, making your ZES sound more organic without affecting the wide soundstage that much.

3. Kbear KB07
Recommended! Will not cut the treble harshness that much like the Sony, but will make the ZES more balanced and the darkish tint to the overall sound will be greatly reduced.


Tested Synergies

Odd Synergy
(Avani + ZES with Sony tips and stock cable)
Mediocre pair, not recommended, it somehow makes the ZES more dark and female vocals became chestier and less transparent. Go with the second synergy, if you somehow like vocals that are too lush and chesty then go.

The Studio-feel Synergy
(Abigail + ZES with Sony tips and stock cable)
Excellent pairing, Abigail will extract more soundstage with the ZES, making it more spacious and airy sounding that the Odd Synergy. Treble is also more controlled with the Abigail making the whole sound safe with a little bit spice on the upper treble. Vocals are unaffected and bass are tighter and more controlled.

Details Extraction
(OG CX-31993 + ZES with Sony tips and cable)
Same as the second synergy but the treble is less controlled (noticeable with sibilance prone tracks / poorly mastered tracks). However, female vocals are more transparent with this synergy.


Technical Aspects
Shown in this section are the frequency response of the DQ6s. The measurements are taken by a Dayton IMM-6 Mic with a DIY Tube Coupler, so assume that this measurements are not that accurate compared to the graphs released by the reviewers who have an IEC-711 coupler. Suggestions about this section are always welcome.

CSD Plot Parameters are based on this blog:
https://diyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/tutorials/how-to-interpret-graphs/csdwaterfall-spectrum/​

Click to expand...

Recommend Tracks/Genres
Jrock/Jpop, Rock, Modern Pop, Old Pop, RnB, Trance / EDM, Hip-hop, Rap, Bossa Nova, Jazz

“Not that good” Tracks
Orchestra (Off timbre with some instruments), Some female vocal centric tracks.

Non-affiliate Links
KZ Official Website：KZ ZES
Shopee PH: KZ ZES

Overall Rating
See my ranking list here
S (Relative to my IEMs) (Superseding DQ6S)
A (Relative to Price)
Recommended!


Final Words
The ZES for me is just a DQ6S but with ZEX flavor thrown into the mix. I’ve titled the ZEX as the monochrome of the night in my review as it gives you this certain spice factor in the treble that makes the bloaty nature of the sound have this speedy yet controlled sparkle. On the other hand, DQ6S is my swallowtail of rock and roll, because it literally replays my rock and roll tracks like an ultra giga chad.

For that reason, my ZES review is titled as “A Swallowtail Scrawled with Monochrome Dye” because it is literally a DQ6S with ZEX treble response. Plus the title sounds good and catching hehe.

Aaanndd! Don’t forget the 8-core cable included in the box, like woah this is included now in their budget offerings? I hope this retains in their $30 offering, because tbh, I don’t like their stock silver flimsy cables, it also makes the sound worse in most of my IEMs.

Thanks for reaching this part! Hope you enjoy the read, even if it is pretty long.

Summary

Sound signature is mild V-shaped leaning to warmth, very good for hip-hop, rock, rap, indie and electronic dance music. DQ6s has the best bass presentation from KZ to date, bass digs deep with proper texture and control beating their old models ZAS/CA16 Pro. Even with the quantity and enthusiasm of the bass on the entire frequency spectrum, the midrange stays clear and clean with instances of midbass bleed in heavy bass tracks. Male vocals have that nice raspiness and weight to them and is reminiscent to the Blon BL-03, female vocals on the other hand may sound a bit boxy depending on the track and lacks that angelic/sparkly tone that their recent offerings (CRA and ZEX Pro) offer. Treble presentation on the DQ6s can be classified as “safe” as the overall signature leans towards warmth, and treble is somehow subdued specially on the air/brilliance region.

Click to expand...

Disclaimer

• I like to thank KZ/CCA for providing me a review unit of KZ x HBB DQ6s.
• Jeff from KZ sent this unit for my honest opinion and assessment.
• This review will somehow be biased towards my taste in music and my target sound signature.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.
• You can check My IEM Rankings for better visualization and shortened comparison to my other IEMs.
• As always don't forget to take my review with salt and always cross reference

Preliminary

• I’ve used the DQ6s for 3 days with different sources and tips, played different tracks ranging from pop to bossa nova (except Metal).
• I've especifically reviewed the KZ DQ6s with stock cable and eartips, and with Abigail as the source. Other notes about source and eartips rolling can be seen at the Mods Section.

My Specific Library
I mostly listen to this artists/group of artists, arranged from frequently to least played:

ShibayanRecords, Mitsukiyo, Nagi Yanagi, Yorushika, Kenshi Yonezu, Yoasobi, Ito Kashitaro, Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran, Sawano Hiroyuki, ChouCho, Weaver, Turnover, The Script and Hoyo-Mix.

I also love to listen to symphonic tracks or tracks with relaxing/magical/nostalgic vibe to it.

My Target Sound Signature
My target sound signature is crinacle’s IEF neutral with sub-bass boost or Harman 2019 v2 with reduced upper mids gain. However, V-shaped or U-shaped will also work as long as there are sufficient technicalities. Congestion, bass bloat, and muddiness are a big no for me.

Equipment

• CX-31993
• Avani (ALC-5686)
• Abigail (CX-31993) “Main Source”
• LG V20
• Xiaomi Mi 4

Thy Frequency Spectrum

When I heard about the collaboration of KZ with Habibi, my first thought was that the DQ6s would not suit my library that well compared to ZEX Pro, which fits my library like a buttered glove. To my surprise, the mid-bass bleed that I was expecting from the get go is almost not an issue, and the bass of the DQ6s is just beautiful, this is the bass I was expecting from the BL-03, textured, clean, and tight. The DQ6s' overall sound signature is reminiscent of the BL-03, but with tighter, cleaner, and textured bass and improved technicalities (particularly in the imaging department).

Click to expand...

Bass: 5/5
Textured, clean, full-bodied, tight, and impactful. These are the adjectives that describe the DQ6s bass, like what the fudge is this bass? Even my CA16 Pro, a KZ/CCA top of the line model, becomes shy. The sub-bass of the DQ6s just digs deep and will definitely satisfy the bass heads out there. The mid-bass is also full-bodied and avoids bleeding to the midrange/vocals as much as possible. Instruments such as drums and bass guitar have that nice impact and kick to them. Additionally, the quantity of the mid-bass also gives that nice lushness and forwardness to the male vocals and is very nice with rock and rap, which have a male vocal lead.

Midrange: 4/5
Vocals are leaning towards warmth with the DQ6s. Male vocals have that very nice lushness to them, making them a bit emotional at times. Female vocals, however, may lack that angelic/sparkly tone (which I quite crave in some of my tracks). The lack of 3kHz energy makes alto and soprano singers sound a bit muted. Fans of Jpop/Jrock that has a female lead may find the DQ6s a bit lacking for their taste, but fans of western rock/rap/hip-hop will find the mid-range of the DQ6s quite enjoyable. Percussion, strings, and wind instruments have that nice definition and are nicely weighted, but like the issue with the female vocals, it may sound boxy at times.

Treble: 4.75/5
Organic, palatable, and safe. The lower treble is tuned so well that any harshness that may occur, especially with electric guitars, is reduced significantly. Additionally, instruments like piano, percussion and strings are not that bright like on ZEX Pro, but they are lush and weighty which some people will really enjoy. The air and brilliance regions are somewhat subdued, and some people who are accustomed to neutral-bright signatures may find the overall sound lacking a bit air and sparkle. Wide-bore and foam tips significantly help in this area.

Technicalities

• The coherency between the three dynamic drivers is excellent; I can’t quite point out any timbre issues. The overall presentation of bass, midrange, and treble is smooth and free of any driver texture inconsistencies (BA metallic sheen, magnetostat fast decay, etc.).
• The soundstage is more in your head rather than being wide and spacious. With average width and height and above average depth. (the stage is narrower than ZEX Pro and Heart Mirror, same studio feel, with DQ6s being more intimate). Imaging is also on average side, instruments may sound too close depending on the track. It is also more of a left-center-right staging, unlike ZEX Pro, which stages instruments in 360 (see Figure A).
• Instrument separation is average, and instruments may sound too smooth at times (rare, but noticeable in Jazz). Unlike ZEX Pro, DQ6's portrayal of the instrument feels a bit 2D-ish. Drums and bass guitars mostly have that nice realism/physical feel to them. Pianos , guitars, and wind instruments, on the other hand, may sometimes sound boxy or 2D-ish.
• Driver speed is adequate; note attack and decay feel organic and are never too fast; it's just "right." The drivers also handle complex tracks without breaking a sweat, but midbass bleed may occur in some heavy-bass tracks.

The Radar Chart

The charts below show how DQ6s performs, this is still a subjective approach but the chart can give you a bigger picture of what you're trying to purchase. Moreover, the chart only takes into consideration all of the IEMs I have tried so far which is around the price range of $10 to $80. If you want to see a comparison to higher priced gears kindly check other reviews.

Click to expand...

Music Analysis

Kindly, click the title of the section to listen to the tracks

Click to expand...

1. Hamu Test “Multiple tracks arranged by Hamu” (Played in HibyMusic)

The tracks in this section, will test the IEM ability to naturally replay and stage musical instruments like piano, guitar, violin and drums. This section will also test imaging, detail retrieval and separation. So far, the only IEM I have that masterfully replay this section are ZEX Pro and Heart Mirror with rating of Superb. Most of the tracks here also hates V-shaped IEMs.

Click to expand...

What I’ve observed in these tracks is that the bass hits quite hard, the instrument fundamental notes are still clean and meaty, but the bass just comes way too forward for my taste. ZEX Pro and Heart Mirror play the bass of these tracks at the back of my head and never take the front stage. DQ6s does the opposite, which to be honest, I don’t quite like. Harmonics and microdetails are also well represented and audible, but it lacks that sparkle and space on the stage (I always crave these things for my Bossa Nova playlist).
The air and brilliance regions are also somewhat subdued, making the whole atmosphere a bit cramped and lacking a bit of wideness. Imaging is also average as I can only locate the instruments in stereo (left-center-right). It lacks the holographic effect that Heart Mirror and ZEX Pro are known for.

Replay Rating: Below Average



2. Daydream by Kenshi Yonezu (Played in HibyMusic)

Male Vocals, Staging, Bass and Imaging

Click to expand...

The portrayal of the starry night background at the start is organic and somewhat realistic; it does not sound congested or compressed at all. The stage feels a bit narrow, but that is offset by how organic sounding it is. Kenshi's voice is lush, weighted, and emotional; quite enjoyable. The cowbells and piano are also quite clean and detailed. The bass, yeah, the bass is quite visceral, it just rumbles very cleanly, very punchy and the texturing is just unreal for a KZ. The bass may come off as too forward, especially at the chorus part, but yeah, I think most people will just forgive it because it’s just clean and it never feels bloated or too boomy. Finally, microdetails are subdued, like at 01:11, the cowbell is near being inaudible due to the bass focus throughout the song.

Replay Rating: Average (Superb for BASS)



3. Hello Euphoria by Turnover (Played in HibyMusic)

Timbre, Male Vocals, Mids Quality, Driver Speed

Click to expand...

What the fudge is this, it’s simply beautiful, the timbre is much better than KZ ZEX (which I praised in my review), I can't. The little nuances in the drums and the overall nostalgic vibe are just excellently portrayed by the DQ6s, it feels like I’ve been returned to my childhood days. The harmony between the guitars, vocals, and drums is just euphoric with DQ6s. I can't describe what I'm hearing...If you like Turnover or any band that’s like them, buy the DQ6s and let the swallowtail of rock and roll take care of you.

Replay Rating: Superb



4. Make it Rain by Ed Sheeran (Played in Tidal Masters)

Male Vocals, Stage, Guitars and Treble Quality

Click to expand...

Woah, the guitar at the start sounds so realistic (what the fudge). I can also somehow feel the atmosphere that the track wants to convey. It’s comforting and nostalgic, I can’t quite explain it. Ed Sheeran’s voice is warm, clean, emotional, and lovely; it never feels lean or lacking. The staging of this track is also excellent; it feels like I’m in the studio where Ed is singing in front of me while the instruments are on my left and right side. The bite of the guitar and cymbals is also delicious. It sounds so organic and never approaches the harsh or peaky territory. It somehow gives definition to this track. Amazing

Replay Rating: Superb



5. God of Ink by SawanoHiroyuki feat mpi (Played in HibyMusic)

Guitar Timbre, Male Vocals, Treble Quality, Staging

Click to expand...

Another track where the DQ6s shows its prowess, this track needs a tamed-down lower treble and needs some energy in the lower frequencies to make drums snappy and male vocals raspy, and amazingly, DQ6s provide that with no reservations. However, the only nitpick I have is that the stage is a bit cramped, it lacks the openness that their cheap model CRA wonderfully provides. If you like SawanoHiroyuki or tracks with the same vibe/genre I quite recommend the DQ6s (if you find the CRA vocals a bit brittle then DQ6s is a very good alternative.)

Replay Rating: Excellent



5. Kakera by Itowokashi (Played in HibyMusic)

Guitar Timbre, Male Vocals, Sibilance Test, Lo-fi Test

Click to expand...

This track is just played organically with the DQ6s it greatly reminds me of how BL-03 plays this track. The imperfections in the chorus are somehow smoothed out by the DQ6s which makes it a delight to listen to, since electric guitars are not that strident. Ito Kashitaro’s voice is a bit strident in this track but replayed with weight, control and raspiness by the DQ6s, it let me enjoy Ito Kashitaro tracks again truth to be told. With this I can assume that DQ6s is very-forgiving to poorly mastered tracks or tracks with lots of rock elements to it.

Replay Rating: Superb

Comparison

ZEX Pro vs DQ6s
DQ6's tonal balance and organic nature are truly to be praised, but it lacks the technicalities that ZEX Pro easily provides. Even if there’s a treble grain in some songs with ZEX Pro, how I can easily locate and imagine the instruments physically within my headspace, just like you’re in a studio, is easily a plus thing for me. DQ6s, unfortunately, does not have that niche.
Plus, I’m one of the people that really enjoyed the vocal presentation in ZEX Pro. It’s just right for my taste, it’s clean and not too colored, unlike the DQ6s' "warmish vocal presentation" (the warm coloration is not good for my Toho Bossa Nova/Mitsukiyo tracks imho). What ZEX Pro really needs to improve is the treble area, and I think DQ6s is not the fix that people are waiting for. It’s all together a different sound signature that works in some genres but not for all. If you came from a V-shaped signature or you are an avid KZ IEM collector, then DQ6s will not disappoint you. DQ6s is the most refined V-shaped tuning they’ve done so far, in my opinion. The tuning is just "right" for the drivers. However, if you are like me, who prefer technicalities over tonality, then you might enjoy the ZEX Pro more than the DQ6s.
Since I’m biased toward the niche studio like staging of ZEX Pro. ZEX Pro wins, however DQ6s not bad.

CRA vs DQ6s
These two have different signatures, so I can’t quite assure you that one is better than the other. Let’s just say that CRA is brighter, more sparkly, and has a wider stage, but it suffers from a lack of organic-ness/warmth in the vocals and electric guitars, most of the time, sounding too sharp. CRA is good for tracks that need a brighter tonality and more treble energy (e.g SawanoHiroyuki, Yoasobi, etc.). If you like rock, rap, or hip-hop and want that lushness in your vocals, DQ6s are a better option. Tie.

CA16 Pro vs DQ6s
Yeah, sadly, the DQ6s somehow made the CA16 Pro obsolete. As such, the DQ6s just take the bass of the CA16 Pro and refine it even further. The new XUN driver of the DQ6s produces bass with texture, cleanliness, and punch. The CA16 Pro bass, on the other hand, is somehow bloomy, making the texture smooth/undefined rather than textured. Additionally, the vocal reproduction in DQ6s is more palatable and emotional compared to CA16 Pro. I think what CA16 Pro wins is the technicalities. CA16 Pro still has an upper hand when it comes to detail retrieval and how you can catch those little nuances in the track. DQ6s is somehow polite in microdetail retrieval. However, since DQ6s do not have the treble harshness that CA16 Pro has at higher volumes, DQ6s take the win this time. DQ6s win.

Blon BL-03 vs DQ6s
If you like the organic nature of BL-03 but you want the bass to be a bit tighter and imaging to be more accurate, then DQ6s will be up your alley, like DQ6s is just a BL-03 but with better technicalities and cleaner bass presentation. Folks who like that analogish sound that BL-03 provides will surely enjoy how the DQ6s sound. DQ6s wins

Heart Mirror vs DQ6s
Different signatures, HM is bright-neutral and is excellent for acoustic, bossa nova, jazz and female vocals centric tracks, while DQ6s is mild-v shaped and is excellent for rap, hip-hop, edm, male vocals centric tracks, indie and alternatives. I loved to use both of them depending on my mood soo… Tie

KZ ZEX vs DQ6s
ZEX bass is bleeding more to the midrange which makes vocals warm and raspy however instrument fundamentals are bloated significantly making nuances in piano and guitars muted compared to DQ6s. ZEX bass is also sloppier than the DQ6s clean, visceral and tight bass. Vocals on the two are almost the same with ZEX being brighter by a small margin. ZEX treble presentation may also approach harshness territory in some tracks, however DQ6s is so safely tuned in the treble region that any harshness is subdued, making old rock songs to be replayed smoothly. Due to the bass presentation and cleaner midrange of DQ6s. DQ6s wins

Mods
Stock cable and eartips will work fine for the KZ DQ6s, however there’s also some noticeable improvement when using different eartips. Cable upgrade is not required.

1. Stock Starline Tips (a.k.a KZ Starlines Reborn)
The just “right” eartips for the DQ6s, it just works, tonal balance is unaffected in anyway in these eartips, plus the treble harshness that the old starlines have is greatly reduced in this reiteration. One of the best eartips for DQ6s no cap.

2. Sony EP-EX11
Recommended, but may make the DQ6s warmer than stock. Treble is also more subdued.

3. Spinfits CP145
Recommended! Will make your DQ6s more open and wider, however vocals may be perceived as too recessed especially female vocals. Bass is also reduced when using these tips, making details in the midrange pop out more. Somehow improves the imaging of the DQ6s.

4. Foam Tips
Recommended too! Like the CP145, but more organic sounding. Vocals are not that recessed like the CP145. Microdetails are also more noticeable in these eartips, however the warmish coloration in the vocals is greatly reduced, making the vocals somehow neutralish.

Tested Synergies

Warmth and Immersion Set
(Avani + DQ6s with foam tips and stock cable)
Excellent pairing, foams will make the sound wider, while Avani will make sure that details on the mid-range are properly nuanced while treble and bass are kept at check. Not for basshead! As this synergy focuses more on balancing the tonality of the DQ6s to a more neutral signature and making the vocals more forward. Recommended for those people who think that DQ6s bass is too much in some tracks, my default daily set.

Feel the Impact Set
(Avani + DQ6s with stock tips and stock cable)
Nice pairing specially for bass heads! The bass is more punchy, crispy and rumbly in this synergy compared to the later one. Vocals on the other hand is recessed (especially female vocals). This synergy also feels more narrower than the other sets. Highly recommended for folks who like their DQ6s sound by default or are accustomed to KZ house sound signature.

Balanced “As all things should be”
(Abigail + DQ6s with stock eartips and cable)
Balanced, Abigail will extract some air with the DQ6s making it more open and spacious. Bass still retains its punchiness and rumble but not that impactful compared to the Feel the Impact Set. Vocals still recessed, and instruments still lacks that physicality on the stage which the first set had. Sound is also narrower than the first set, but wider than the second set.

Details Extraction
(OG CX-31993 + DQ6s with stock eartips and cable)
Too bright, however microdetails are more audible in this synergy, albeit sounding narrower than the other sets. Not a good synergy in my opinion, stick with Avani or Abigail.

Technical Aspects
Shown in this section are the frequency response of the DQ6s. The measurements are taken by a Dayton IMM-6 Mic with a DIY Tube Coupler, so assume that this measurements are not that accurate compared to the graphs released by the reviewers who have an IEC-711 coupler. Suggestions about this section are always welcome.

CSD Plot Parameters and Analysis are based on this blog:
https://diyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/tutorials/how-to-interpret-graphs/csdwaterfall-spectrum/​

Click to expand...

Recommend Tracks/Genres
Rock, Modern Pop, Old Pop, RnB, Trance / EDM, Hip-hop, Rap, BGGAR Library, Some Japanese Music (Sawano Hiroyuki, King Gnu, Eve, etc.)

“Not that good” Tracks
Bossa Nova ☹ (Bass too enthusiastic and punchy, female vocals are too recessed, instrument fundamentals are most of the time masked by the bass, some instrument are also too close to me. However, Warmth and Immersion Set somehow fixed those issues), Orchestra (Somewhat narrow sounding), Live (Same with Orchestra), Jazz (Same with Bossa Nova)

Non-affiliate Links
KZ Official Website：KZ DQ6s
Aliexpress :https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003822593243.html

Overall Rating
S (Relative to my IEMs) (Superseding CA16 Pro)
A (Relative to Price)
Recommended!

Final Words
I’d like to classify the Habibi collaboration IEM DQ6s as the swallowtail of rock and roll as it carries my old rock songs like a swallowtail, free but with control and direction. All of my Ito Kashitaro/The Oral Cigarettes/Gloc-9/Turnover songs just sounds so smooth and organic with the DQ6s I can’t really find any fault in its tuning when listening to the tracks those artists have made. It may lack the spice and technicalities that my baby ZEX Pro provides however the organic nature of the DQ6s is just hard to ignore. I also think that this IEM will be more palatable with the avid KZ listeners or V-shaped enjoyers more than the ZEX Pro. ZEX Pro is just a niche at this point and I can’t recommend them that much now compared to DQ6s (If you somehow came from earbuds or neutral-bright IEMs you’ll know why I really liked the ZEX Pro).

Finally, thanks for reaching this part! Hope you enjoy the read, even if it is pretty long.

Summary

Sound signature is U-shaped, with tendency to sound dark most of the times. Bass is well controlled and textured. Both female and male vocals are recessed and may sound thin at times. The treble is okay-ish but it lacks air and brilliance making the sound a bit blunted. Fortunately, the drivers in the CA10 are very resolving and responsive and will take equalization without breaking a sweat. Correcting the tonality of CA10 with Equalization will show its prowess and will let you enjoy the music once more, technicality-wise it’s much better than ZEX Pro."

Click to expand...

And yes, this is excellent for Gaming if you’re curious about their advertisement photos.

Click to expand...

Disclaimer

• I like to thank KZ for providing me a review unit of the CCA CA10
• Rest assured that this review will be bias-free.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.

Preliminary

• I tested the CA10 for 1 week with different sources and tips, played different tracks ranging from pop to bossa nova (except Metal).
• I tested the CA10 with stock cable and different eartips/sources.
• My library mainly consists of Japanese music, so if you’re a fan of them like me, then we might have the same taste. I also listen to various genre like hiphop, rap, orchestra etc. but not that often compared to the Japanese ones.

My Target Sound Signature
I like IEMs/Headphones that adheres to the Harman Target 2019v2 or IEF Neutral. However, V-shaped or U-shaped will also work as long as there are sufficient technicalities. Congestion, bass bloat, and muddiness are a big no for me.

Equipment
Avani (ALC-5686)
CX-31993
Abigail (CX-31993) (Default for this review)
LG V20

Equalization
Let me put this section here first. I think this IEM really needs it, applying my EQ will make the CA10 sound more open and will fix the recession in the vocals. There’s no problem with the driver resolution/speed, the tuning of this IEM is what pulls it back. Fixing CA10 tonality through EQ, makes it a total beast, like the vocals, the bass texture, the microdetails all of that are just majestic.
Don’t worry I will make the EQ process easy, just import and forget, you don’t need to know about parametric equalization to use my EQ presets.

STEPS
1. Download Wavelet through playstore, then download the CA10-Tonality Fix v1.4 below.
2. Turn on and click AutoEQ in Wavelet then import the txt file you've downloaded.
3. Enjoy.

CA10 Tonality Fix V1.4: https://drive.google.com/.../1qlGIk6Bl9ew0xYfoec00fjol5zd...

This is my fourth iteration of this EQ preset, I’ve referenced it to my CA10 measurements and confirm the sound by ear. Older versions contain a proper pinna gain but it makes the female vocals strident. If you are curious about those versions, check the old preset folder.

"

Click to expand...

Specifically, you can check the pictures below to know what the EQ is doing to the frequency response of CA10.




Thy Frequency Spectrum

I will assess the CA10 with stock cable, KZ starline tips, no EQ and Abigail as a source. Comments will be added for sound changes in CA10 EQ version.

Click to expand...

Bass: 4/5
The bass in CA10 is big, punchy and tight, if you are somehow familiar with the KZ ZEX bass, the nature of the bass is somehow similar with that IEM. However, unlike ZEX which has an elevated sub-bass, CA10 sub-bass is more polite and the mid-bass is more prominent on the frequency spectrum. The bass speed is also moderate and is not too dry nor too boomy (somehow resembles a dynamic driver bass). The tight, textured and authoritative presentation of bass in the CA10 may satisfy bassheads, for neutral-heads however the bass will be too boomy.

Midrange: 2.5/5 (With EQ: 4/5)
Female and male vocals both sound recessed and like they are being scooped out of the mix. Vocals are also thin in some tracks. There are also some instances of harshness, especially when the vocals are hitting those high notes. Instrument fundamentals are okayish, but they lack details and nuances.

With EQ the vocals become forward, less shouty and more sparkly. Instrument fundamentals also became more nuanced and details in the midrange starts to pop out.

Click to expand...

Treble: 3/5 (With EQ: 4/5)
CA10 treble is designed to comfort you rather than give you details. Any harshness or sibilance are smoothed out with the CA10. The treble also has that soft tone which makes the overall sound dark and narrow (maybe become an issue with some people who like airiness). But even if the sound is narrow, the resolution in the treble area is somehow decent. If you are okay with a not so precise, sparkly and crisp treble then you will like the CA10.

With EQ the sound becomes more open and details starts to pop out, still narrow sounding, however instruments have more bite and sparkle to them compared to non-EQ.

Click to expand...

Technicalities

• The coherency between the 5 balanced armatures is somehow decent. Unfortunately, there’s still a noticeable metallic sheen to some of my tracks and it feels like the balanced armature that handles the midrange is having a hard time controlling the harshness and peaks.
• Soundstage does not have that out of the head feel and may sound intimate depending on the track, some people may also classify it as congested. Imaging and staging are so-so since the instrument feels 2D-ish and don’t have physicality on the stage.
• Separation is excellent. The instruments can be located one by one without any effort at all.
• Driver speed/resolvability is excellent. The balanced armature that handles the bass region is quite nice, it handles fast and complex bass passages without any sweat at all and texturing is also quite good. Midrange and treble drivers’ resolvability are also excellent; however, they are bottlenecked by the tuning. Listening to the CA10 feels like the drivers are not in their max potential.

Comparison
CA10 vs CRA
I really don’t know what to say about this, tuning wise CRA is miles ahead compared to CA10. However, the driver resolution of CA10 and its bass presentation and tamed-down treble presentation can be a pro for some people. Unfortunately, CA10 does not play my library that well… for that reason CRA wins.

EQing the CA10 using my presets, makes the CA10 win by a large margin.

Click to expand...

CA10 vs CA16 Pro
Let's shorten this comparison, CA10 is just the CA16 Pro Lite (yeap, that's what it is). If you have an extra budget, I’d highly recommend you go with CA16 Pro instead, CA16 Pro is more refined sounding and vocals are more satisfying compared to CA10. Plus, the bass in CA16 Pro is much dynamic and enthusiastic compared to CA10, you also don’t need to EQ the CA16 Pro to correct its tonality. CA16 Pro wins

CA10 vs ZEX Pro
The vocals in ZEX Pro are much controlled, more intimate and more correct sounding than the CA10, I don’t really get why the CA10 is being compared to the ZEX Pro, even frequency response graphs shows that they are miles different from each other. CA10 upper midrange and lower treble is also more prone to harshness compared to ZEX Pro smooth midrange response. Bass is also cleaner and tighter in ZEX Pro. I really don’t want to compare these two, since CA10 does not stand a chance in this comparison, however just want to point out that their midrange presentation isn’t the same. ZEX Pro wins but CA10 wins in resolution and driver EQ capability.

Mods
Stock cable will work fine for the CA10, however there’s also some noticeable improvement when using different eartips.

1. KZ Starline Tips: My default eartips, well-balanced and will add some treble energy to the darkish nature of CA10.
2. Sony EP EX-11 Tips: May sound too bloaty sometimes, but the upper midrange harshness that occurs in some tracks are subdued.
3. Spinfits CP100: Okayish, like the KZ Starline but more comfortable.
4. Generic Foam Tips: Will make the bass less bloaty and will subdue the lower treble, however upper midrange harshness will show in some tracks.
5. Stock Tips: Worse tips for the CA10, don’t use.


Tested Synergies

Companions of Weakness Set
(Abigail + CA10 with White KZ Starline Tips and Stock Cable)
Restores some air that the CA10 missing, makes the soundstage a bit wider (wider than the three other dongles). Extracts some details in the midrange, and makes the vocals more nuanced than the other three. However, vocal harshness may occur at some tracks which can be solved through EQ. Bass is tight and textured in this synergy and bass bloat is significantly reduced.

The Cousin of Details
(Tiandirehne CX-31993 + CA10 with White KZ Starline Tips and Stock Cable)
Sounds narrower than Abigail, but microdetails are more pronounced in this synergy. Vocal harshness is also more subdued than Abigail. Bass is also more dynamic and enthusiastic in this synergy, but is bloatier than Abigail.

Boom Boom BakuMIDS
(Avani + CA10 with White KZ Starline Tips and Stock Cable)
Say goodbye to air and brilliance frequency even more, and make way for the bass and midrange. Almost same stage as Abigail but bass is boomier and vocals are a bit weightier/raspy. With the improvement in the midrange, the sparkle and open-ness takes a bit hit, this synergy is more relaxed but less detailed than the two above.


Technical Aspects
Shown in this section are the frequency response of the CA10. The measurements are taken by a Dayton IMM-6 Mic with a DIY Tube Coupler, so assume that this measurements are not that accurate compared to the graphs released by the reviewers who have an IEC-711 coupler. Suggestions about this section are always welcome.

CSD Plot Parameters and Analysis are based on this blog:
https://diyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/tutorials/how-to-interpret-graphs/csdwaterfall-spectrum/​

Click to expand...

Recommend Tracks/Genres
Rock, Lo-fi Tracks, Live, Old Pop, Trance / EDM, Hip-hop, Rap, Some Acoustic Tracks

“Not that good” Tracks
Bossa Nova (No realism at all, wind, percussion, and string instruments lack harmonics, while fundamentals are masked with mid-bass)
Orchestra (Same with Bossa Nova)
Jazz (Same with Bossa Nova)
Most Japanese Music (CA10 is not friendly with most of my tracks…often sounds harsh or boomy.)

Non-affiliate Links
PH Link:
https://shopee.ph/CCA-CA10-Hybrid-In-Ear-Headphones-HIFI
International Link:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003749119870.html


Overall Rating
C- (Relative to my IEMs)
C (Relative to Price)
NOT Recommended

Non-audio Summary: A light-weight Bluetooth headphone with APTX codec support and a fairly durable build. It can be easily connected using NFC, and has a touch panel that supports gestures for volume, pause, next track, and assistant. The battery life is superb. I’ve used it for a week and it didn’t even bulge on the seventh day. Same battery performance as my KZ T10, which cost twice as much as this headphone. The build is all plastic except for the adjustable hinge. The fit is very nice; it does not suck my ears and hurt the upper part of my head like what KZ T10 does, and I can also use it for hours, unlike KZ T10 that fatigues me within 30 minutes of listening. This headphone can also be used wired and has a very nice sounding microphone built into it.

Click to expand...

Audio Summary: Smooth and organic-sounding, it makes you want to fall into a reverie and just chill and relax to the music. It has a laid-back sound (excellent for Jazz, Bosa Nova, and the like), leaning towards a mild-V sound signature. The bass is very good; it’s fairly balanced with a good amount of thump and rumble without veiling the melodic frequencies or the midrange. The midrange is a bit recessed and soft-sounding but still renders enough details (like backing voices and atmospheric echoes). Treble is also very good; it’s quite smooth and does not sound harsh or peaky at all. There’s also enough brilliance and air that makes the P23BT open-sounding and wonderfully avoids sounding too compressed or narrow. The soundstage is fairly out of the head, with good height and width and a below-average depth.

Click to expand...

Disclaimer

• I liked to thank Soundmagic for providing me a review unit of the Soundmagic P23BT.
• Rest assured that this review will be bias-free and will only contain my honest opinion and assessment of this headphone.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.
• Take this review with a copium amount of salt and as always don’t forget to cross refer or check other reviews of this product.
• Also if you have time you can visit my site here XerusKun Archive, for the more polished layout of my review.

Preliminary

• I've used the Soundmagic P23BT for a week, tried different tracks within my library and let the brain burn-in do its work. Unlike my IEM reviews, I will also focus on the features of the headphones, durability, battery life and other ease of use the headphone can provide.
• My library mainly consists of Japanese music, so if you’re a fan of them like me, then we might have the same taste. I also listen to various genre like hiphop, rap, orchestra etc. but not that often compared to the Japanese ones.

My Music Library
I mostly listen to these artists/group of artists, arranged from frequently to least played:

ShibayanRecords, Mitsukiyo, Nagi Yanagi, Yorushika, Kenshi Yonezu, Yoasobi, Ito Kashitaro, Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran, Sawano Hiroyuki, ChouCho, Weaver, Turnover, The Script and Hoyo-Mix.

Click to expand...

Overall, I love listening to symphonic tracks or tracks with relaxing/magical/nostalgic vibe to it.

My Target Sound Signature
I like IEMs/Headphones that adheres to the Harman Target 2019v2 or IEF Neutral. However, V-shaped or U-shaped will also work as long as there are sufficient technicalities. Congestion, bass bloat, and muddiness are a big no for me.

Equipment

• Samsung Galaxy Note 9
• Generic Dell Laptop
• Tiandirenhe CX-31993
• Avani (ALC-5686)
• Abigail (CX-31993)

Thy Features



Build Quality

• Truth to be told the built of this headphone is so-so, all parts are plastic except the hinges and screws, it does not have the premium feel, however I think this is quite okay for the price. The drivers can be rotated 180 degrees and can be folded to fit in the included carrying pouch (pictures above).
• The pads are okay but it feels cheap and feels like it will easily chirp as time passes by, fortunately the pads can be replaced which is a plus.
• The head band is made of rubber and is very comfortable (looking at T10, which hurts my head like crazy after a few minutes.). P23BT is also lightweight and is very comfortable to wear, it feels like I am wearing nothing at all, and what amazes me is it does not have that suffocating feel (unlike KZ T10).

Codec Support
Yeah! APTX support! very very nice (I’m looking at you T10). APTX is just in another class compared to SBC/AAC, there’s no hiccups and most of my songs sounds majestic as it should be. Gaming with APTX is also quite nice. I’ve played Genshin Impact with my P23BT for about an hour, there’s still some delay, yeap, but not that catastrophic compared to SBC/AAC. P23BT is very good for environment-based games like Genshin Impact, however it may be an issue for First Person Shooters players.

Microphone Test
Click the links below to check the quality of the microphone.
Bluetooth Microphone Test
Wired Microphone Test

Aux Mode and Bluetooth APTX Mode
Unfortunately, to use the P23BT wired, a specific plug (2.5 mm TRS jack) is needed to be inserted in the headphone. At first, I thought that I can use my extra cable in my arsenal, unfortunately, I need some adapters to make my 3.5 mm cable work. ☹

When it comes to the sound, ironically, I like the Bluetooth mode more, it is more organic sounding and more palatable in Bluetooth compared to wired. Yeap, P23BT will sound much cleaner and has more clarity with wired, however the treble is weirdly boosted and there’s a weird dip at around 100 Hz in wired mode. I’ve tried different dongles, yet, I still can’t seem to like P23BT sound in wired mode. I don’t know but my theory is there’s some processing happening inside the Bluetooth module of the P23BT that fixes the dip and makes the treble smoother.

Anyways, use P23BT in Bluetooth, just use it wired when its low in battery or you need to use that lovely mic built into the wire.

Ease of Use
I love how they implement the NFC at the side of the drivers, very nice feature. Whenever I’d like to use my P23BT I’ll just put the back of my phone to the NFC Panel and it just instantly connects. Very intuitive I must say. The only issue I have with my usage of the P23BT is sometimes the touch panel and the power button. The power button is quite hard to locate and press, most of the time I don’t know if I pressed it right or not.

Aside from these nitpicks, P23BT is simply just a connect and indulge type of headphone experience.

Range
Excellent, Bluetooth 5.0 range is quite exceptional. I tested P23BT range within our house vicinity, and through my testing, the max range I can get is around 11 meters. This is accounting the randomly placed walls as obstruction in its range.

Sound Leakage
In my experience, other people can still hear the music I’m listening to when the headphone is at 80% volume, lower than that the sound leakage is almost unnoticeable.

Battery Life
Amazing, this is another Bluetooth headphone that has a fantastic battery life and easily lives with my almost 1 week of torture…ahh.. no..I mean “usage” (it’s like a mini KZ T10 when it comes to battery life). Specifically, the table shows my usage for the whole 6 days without turning off the headphone and just letting it at standby.


Other Nitbits

• USB Type C charging port! Very nice! (not a nitpick just wanted to point out)
• An application alongside with this headphone will be quite nice I think, maybe for higher models?
• There’s no indicator for battery life, you can only see the battery life in your phone status bar.
• 3.5 mm jack in the headphone body instead of 2.5 mm will be highly appreciated.

Thy Frequency Spectrum

Since this headphone will be used wirelessly most of the time, I will ignore the wired mode and assess the sound via Bluetooth APTX mode (comments will be added if there’s any difference when wired). This is my second closed-back Bluetooth headphone, so take my review with a big scoop of salt.
I will be using my first Bluetooth headphone, the KZ T10, and some of my IEMs for reference.

Click to expand...

Bass: 4/5
For a Bluetooth headphone, the bass is pretty amazing (I liked it better than my KZ T10). It does not have that visceral bass head rumble and punch like my IEMs have, but it does have that softish nature that is quite addicting in some tracks (e.g., Bossa Nova). Truth to be told, I kind of dig this type of bass. If you’ve tried Vido Blue earbuds, the nature of the bass is kind of the same, but with more sub-bass and texture. The bass also avoids veiling the melodic frequencies and presents itself at the back of my head like what my Hzsound Heart Mirror and ZEX Pro do.
Additionally, there’s still enough sub-bass to boot, but it's not taking the front stage and instead rumbles cleanly in the background. Incredibly nice! If you like soft, relaxed bass with plenty of texture, the P23BT is an excellent choice. However, if you’re a basshead and you're looking for a bass that is quite dynamic and enthusiastic, then I suggest you look at the other options.

Bass is more defined and punchier with wired mode however it removes the softish nature of the bass which I don’t quite like.

Click to expand...

Midrange: 4/5
The midrange is a bit recessed and has a soft nature to it. Unlike KZ T10, the vocals are more forward with P23BT, around 1 step back from the instruments. Male vocals have enough raspiness, weight, and clarity, while female vocals are weighted but lack the sparkle and bite (kind of the same as how ZEX Pro reproduces the vocals). What amazes me with the P23BT is that there are some details in the midrange that I cannot hear with my IEMs, like the background voices and atmospheric sound effects in some songs. Pianos, guitars, wind instruments, and percussion are quite okay, still clear but not as clean sounding as my IEMs.

Wired mode makes the midrange more recessed and less organic.

Click to expand...

Treble: 4/5
Yeap, this is the treble I’m looking for a headphone, I ironically prefer it over my dorm-mate’s Philips SHP9500. The instruments like violins and cymbals are detailed and present but never feels edgy or brittle, it has that organic tone which I quite enjoy with most of my tracks. There’s also enough boost in the air and brilliance region, making the P23BT sound open and wide. There are some instances where the treble lacks resolution and is kind of peaky, but this issue mostly occurs with complex and fast tracks.

Wired mode seems to make the treble more edgy and harsh, already tried different sources same result

Click to expand...

Technicalities

This is where the P23BT quietly disappoints me. Its tonality is fantastic for the price, but its technicalities are pretty average.

Click to expand...

Track used for testing stage: Soliloque feat Milka by ShibayanRecords (Toho Bossa Nova 10 Album)
Shaded circle represents instruments, yellow box represents the singer, rounded rectangle with dash outline represents the size
of the stage in terms of width, lastly the rounded rectangle without dash represents the *block in where the instruments lies on.

Referring to the figure above, P23BT is more intimate in vocals than KZ T10, in T10 the vocals are far away from the listener and often veiled by the instruments.
Instruments staging in P23BT are well separated but they can only be located in your left or right side.​

Click to expand...

*When a headphone/IEM have this block, the imaging and staging is kind of so-so/average and sometimes mushy, otherwise if there's no block, it means that the instruments have physicality within the stage, and you can somehow imagine them in 3D.​

Click to expand...

Soundstage: 3/5
Sound stage is okayish, very nice height, average width, below average depth. The sound stage still has that out of the head experience; however, it does not extend that far unlike KZ T10.

Imaging and Staging: 3/5
The instruments are located on my left and right side while vocals are in the front center. Instruments sounds like they are in a one block of space instead of having different individual bubbles on the stage.

Separation: 3/5
The separation is quite okay, the vocals and instruments are well separated however they are not that cleanly separated like what I prefer. However, the separation is better than KZ T10 in my opinion.

Detail Retrieval: 3.5/5
It’s amazing how it can retrieve macro-details in the midrange like background voices and guitar plucking, but micro-details are so-so, especially with fast tracks.

Driver Speed: 2/5
Yup, I can’t recommend this headphone for fast and complex tracks, the driver speed is quite average and plays nicely with moderately paced songs like pop and jazz, however as fast passages are being played treble resolution starts to fall apart and the bass starts to bleed in the midrange.

Music Analysis

1. Hamu Test “Multiple tracks arranged by Hamu” (Played in HibyMusic)

The tracks in this section, will test the IEM/Headphone ability to naturally replay and stage musical instruments like piano, guitar, violin and drums. This section will also test imaging, detail retrieval and separation. Most of the tracks here hates V-shaped IEMs.

Click to expand...

Very very nice replay by P23BT. Instruments like piano and guitars sound organic, and the bass lines are kept clean and rumbly at the back of my head. Wind instruments and violins are nicely weighted and defined. They are not sharp or sterile in any way. P23BT does not have that technical capability (nuance, cleanliness, imaging and staging prowess) that my IEMs have however, the timbre of the instrument are quite spot on. The P23BT also captures atmospherics well, and I can hear sound echoes and decay on stage, which is surprising.

It might be an overstatement, but for me, the overall sound is like a warm blanket in the midst of cold nights... it makes me want to stop analyzing the details in the music and just relax and fall into reverie.

Replay Rating: Excellent

2. Chocolate Lemon Trio by Mitsukiyo (Played in HibyMusic)

Piano, Timbre, Imaging and Staging

Click to expand...

Yet another organic and smooth replay by the P23BT. I love how the piano sounds on this track. The key presses are clean but not too sharp like on my T10. The piano just sounds amazing and emotional. I should mention that it isn't as nuanced and detailed as ZEX Pro or Heart Mirror...However! The organic replay is just addicting. The same organic replay applies to the drums and cowbell. The said instruments never veil the melodic part of the track, even if it’s quite punchy and boomy. It just supports the piano wonderfully, it’s like bread and butter.

To be honest, I’d like more sparkle and separation with this track, but the warmish tone of the instruments is just triggering my happy hormones. Ahmmmmm, I don’t want to analyze this track anymore, I just want to listen and indulge myself in tranquility.

Replay Rating: Excellent

3. Love Letter by Yoasobi (Played in Apple Music)

Female Vocals, Layering, Bass, Treble Quality

Click to expand...

Ikura’s voice at the start of the track has that softish tone to it while still being clear and defined. It’s well weighted and not shouty at all. The drums are placed far out of my headspace and have a good thump and punch. Some microdetails at the start are unfortunately muted. As the chorus approaches, instruments start to mush with each other, making the music kind of congested. Fortunately, Ikura’s voice is still clear even with the instruments not being resolved well. The overall listening experience with this track is fairly balanced. It’s just that the technicalities like detail retrieval and separation pull me out of the music experience.

Replay Rating: Average

4. Daydream by Kenshi Yonezu (Played in Apple Music)

Male Vocals, Staging, Imaging

Click to expand...

The starry night effect at the start lacks details and clarity, echoes and decays of notes are quite muted and in-audible. Kenshi’s voice is nicely weighted and has that nice raspiness, however it lacks the clarity and forwardness. At the chorus part, Kenshi’s voice became even more laid back and his voice starts to place itself behind the instruments. The bass lines are also quite enthusiastic with this track however, specially in the chorus part, the bass starts to makes the vocals and piano veiled for some reason. The staging and imaging are so-so since the instruments are all over the place on the stage. Overall resolution is meh, driver technicalities greatly suffer with this track, unfortunately.

Replay Rating: Below Average

5. Evening Calm, Somewhere, Fireworks by Yorushika (Played in HibyMusic)

Female Vocals, Staging, Harmonics, Transient Response, Guitars

Click to expand...

The hi-hats at the start sound full, but as the electric guitar takes over, the whole intro becomes a little congested. Sui’s voice is clear, weighted, and nuanced, however the high notes she’s doing at the chorus lacks the bite and clarity. The drums and guitars are played smoothly throughout the track, but they have a slightly fuzzy feel to them.There’s also not that much microdetail extracted from this track.

Overall listen is quite good. The replay is quite organic and smooth, even if there are some instances of congestion. The overall replay is far more satisfying than KZ T10 in my opinion.

Replay Rating: Above Average

6. Make it Rain by Ed Sheeran (Played in HibyMusic)

Male Vocals, Stage, Guitars, Imaging, Treble Quality

Click to expand...

Yeap, this is the track where the P23BT excels at, slow-paced and has a lot of atmospherics. The sound of this track is so smooth that it’s quite surprising. Ed Sheeran’s voice is so emotional and lovable, and I can clearly hear the echo of his voice within the stage. It's very nice. The guitars and drums are also played with poise. However, I’d like more texture and nuance with the said instruments. Lastly, wooh, the backing voice is... just beautiful, very very good.

With that out of the way, let me now enjoy this track in peace….

Replay Rating: Excellent


7. Binary Star by SawanoHiroyuki feat Tielle (Played in HibyMusic)

Male Vocals, Stage, Guitars, Imaging, Treble Quality

Click to expand...

Another smooth replay with the P23BT. The starting symphonic arrangement is okayish, but unfortunately lacks nuances and some details here and there. Tielle’s voice in this track is a little laidback, but quite satisfying and unfatiguing to listen to. The chorus is where the P23BT struggles again. The violins are quite uncontrolled and induce some harshness to the track. Fortunately, Tielle’s voice is unaffected. It’s quite disappointing that P23BT can’t resolve the lower treble that well (add those kick drums throughout the track and the congestion starts to kick in). The tonality and organic replay, for me, are spot on. The driver technicalities are just holding it back.

Replay Rating: Average

8. Oort no Yume by Nagi Yanagi (Played in HibyMusic)

Sibilance Test, Female Vocals, Lo-fi Test

Click to expand...

Yeah, this is it, looooovveeeee it! Another slow track that P23BT excels at, the atmosphere of this song is just played amazingly. There’s no frequency that is bleeding or too much; everything from Nagi’s voice, drums, bass guitars, and piano is just laid out in front of me. There are even little details that I didn’t notice with my IEMs, like at 01:49, there’s this little sparkling echo at the back of my head, very very nice. Truth be told, technical/analytical sets hate this track due to the recording artifacts present. However, since P23BT is not that technical, it avoids any harshness and just plays this track smoothly. Just amazing.

Replay Rating: Superb

Comparison

I only have my KZ T10 as my other Bluetooth headphone, so kindly check other reviews for more comparisons.

Click to expand...

KZ T10 vs Soundmagic P23BT
P23BT is airier, has a nice bass (that does not bleed too much to the midrange), has a more organic sound, has a treble that is smooth but also airy. I don’t even know what am I comparing here. In terms of overall tonal balance, I much prefer how P23BT replays my library, even if its not friendly to fast and complex tracks, once you set it in with a nice slow-paced music, the sound prowess of P23BT just skyrocketed (organic, warm and smooth, I ironically sometimes prefer to use P23BT over my ZEX Pro).

The only thing that KZ T10 wins in my opinion is the bass quality and quantity, and the driver technicalities, KZ T10 just resolves my fast tracks much better and the sound stage is much bigger than the P23BT. However aside from that, I will take the P23BT anyday of the week. P23BT wins.

Measurements and Objective Analysis

Equalization

Only recommended for wired mode, bluetooth mode needs no EQ!

Click to expand...

Recommend Tracks/Genres
Jazz, Bossa Nova, Acoustic/Live, Some Slow Pop Songs, Indie/Alternative, Rock (The smooth nature of P23BT just benefits with it.), Lofi Tracks, Mitsukiyo (Yeap, this is a genre now, I don’t know what type of music is he creating but man his creations make me happy every time I listen to it.), Any music that is relaxed sounding.

“Not that good” Tracks
All tracks that have fast and complex passages e.g Metal, Some pop songs, EDM/Trance, Hiphop/Rap, Electropop

Shop Links
PH Link: https://shopee.ph/Soundmagic-P23Bt-Wireless-Bluetooth-Headset-Portable-Noise-Isolation-Hifi-Stereo-i.163728067.12615681030
International Link: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002864812074.html

Overall Rating
A+ (Higher rank than KZ T10)
A (Relative to Price)
Recommended! Will daily drive this headphone no doubt, along with my ZEX Pro.

Final Words
Hey, thanks for reaching this part! Hope you enjoy the read, even if it is quite long....

Summary

Another fantastically tuned set by KZ/CCA, the sound signature is mild U-shape with emphasis in the upper treble region. The driver speed is very speedy and handles my complex track with ease and finesse. The tuning is similar to the well-known Blon BL-03, but with tighter bass and a much extended treble. The sound of the CRA will make you focus on the micro details due to the driver not rolling off at the upper treble, kind of the same as how Heart Mirror makes you hyper-focused on the music. Both males and female vocals are precise, clear, and detailed, and for the price, these are the best vocals you can get no cap. The treble is amazingly good, like this is unreal. You can’t get a better treble than this for the asking price. It's better than Heart Mirror in my opinion. The treble is way extended and has good control and sparkle. Instruments that lie in the treble area are sharp, clean and clear.

Click to expand...

Disclaimer

• I like to thank KZ/CCA for providing me a review unit of the CCA CRA.
• Jeff from KZ sent this unit for my honest opinion and assessment.
• Rest assured that this review will be bias-free.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.
• This review will be quite long and wordy apologies in advance. hehe
• You can check My IEM Rankings for better visualization and shortened comparison to my other IEMs.
• As always don't forget to take my review with salt and always cross reference

Preliminary

• I've used the CRA for 5 days with different sources and tips, played different tracks ranging from pop to bossa nova (except metal).
• I've also tested the CRA with stock cable and eartips, and with CX-31993 as the source, I’ve also tried Avani, Abigail and other low powered sources like Xiaomi Mi 4, however only CX-31993 reduces the brittleness/glassy feeling that CRA somehow has.
• My library mainly consists of Japanese music, so if you’re a fan of them like me, then we might have the same taste. I also listen to various genre like hip-hop, rap, orchestra etc. but not that often compared to the Japanese ones.

My Target Sound Signature
My target sound signature is crinacle’s IEF neutral with sub-bass boost or Harman 2019 v2 with reduced upper mid gain. However, V-shaped or U-shaped will also work as long as there are sufficient technicalities. Congestion, bass bloat, and muddiness are a big no for me.

Equipment

• CX-31993 (Main Source)
• Avani (ALC-5686)
• Abigail (CX-31993)
• LG V20
• Xiaomi Mi 4

Thy Frequency Spectrum

This is the best KZ IEM when it comes to treble reproduction. It's so sparkly, detailed, and extended, even my Heart Mirror became shy in the treble when I tried the CRA. Bass is clean, tight, and textured, but some of my complex tracks induce some kind of mid-bass bleed (which can be mitigated with a clean source). The midrange is also good for the price; it's clear, defined and has enough weight, but it’s not that emotional sounding compared to ZEX Pro and Heart Mirror.

Click to expand...

Bass: 4.75/5
Very fast, clean, punchy, and tight. Midbass bleed sometimes shows in some of my complex tracks. Think of CRA bass like BL-03 bass but way tighter, cleaner, and punchy. The bass rumble is amazing and doesn’t overshadow any of the melodic frequencies. Its position on the stage is on the back of my head. The bass is very good for the price; the tapping of the drums, bass riffs, kick drums, etc. is still audible but not that distinct compared to ZEX Pro.

It will also not satisfy bass heads, as the overall sound focuses more on the treble, and the bass just plays a supporting role in the whole frequency spectrum. Finally, CRA has some of the cleanest bass I’ve heard, along with ZEX Pro. Excellent

Midrange: 4/5
Male vocals have enough raspiness and weight to them, while female vocals also have that nice sparkle. However, their tone is on the analytical side compared to being musical or emotional. Instruments like pianos, guitars, violins, and others are detailed and clear, but they are kind of dry and brittle and don’t have the airiness or warmth that makes them natural sounding. Aside from those nitpicks, this is the best vocal and instrument reproduction you can get for the price. Like, no $20 IEM comes even close.

Treble: 6/5 (Yes, they are "that" good)
Wow, this is the best treble I’ve heard in an IEM so far. Even my Heart Mirror can’t come close to it. The treble is way extended, making instruments like cymbals and strings sound as sharp as a razor knife. Aside from being excellently tuned in the treble area, the details in this area are also retrieved with ease and poise, and its sibilance control is just a . The boost in the upper treble region is excellently done, making the music airier, wider and more open-sounding. It also makes your music more aggressive but not harsh or peaky. Excellent, fantastico, wow.

Technicalities

• Since this is a single dynamic driver, the coherency is excellent, and the transition from bass to midrange to treble is quite smooth, even if the overall sound has that dry tinge to it.
• The soundstage is wide and has excellent width and height, while the depth is below average (the stage is more spacious than ZEX Pro and Heart Mirror, but less natural). The soundstage is like their old KZ offerings (holographic stage) but more refined and has more space.
• Separation is superb for the price. You can locate the instruments one by one, but they are kind of muddled together in a 1D plane (see Figure A below). Unlike ZEX Pro, CRA's portrayal of instruments does not have that physical feel to it, making it somehow artificial.
• Driver speed is unbelievably fast (it’s like a BA) that it became a con. The speed is so fast that the notes induce some brittleness to them, like the notes are unstable or the overall sound lacks the proper reverb to make instruments sound natural. However, with this characteristic, CRA will handle complex and metal tracks with finesse and without breaking a sweat. I also can’t detect any congestion even with the bass hitting as hard as it can, the vocals are still clear and well-defined, and the treble is still delicious.

The Radar Chart

The charts below show how CRA performs, this is still a subjective approach but the chart can give you a bigger picture of what you're trying to purchase. Moreover, the chart only takes into consideration all of the IEMs I have tried so far which is around the price range of $10 to $80. If you want to see a comparison to higher priced gears kindly check other reviews.

Click to expand...

Music Analysis

Kindly, click the title of the section to listen to the tracks

Click to expand...

1. Hamu Test “Multiple tracks arranged by Hamu” (Played in HibyMusic)

The tracks in this section, will test the IEM ability to naturally replay and stage musical instruments like piano, guitar, violin and drums. This section will also test imaging, detail retrieval and separation. So far, the only IEM I have that masterfully replay this section are ZEX Pro and Heart Mirror with rating of Superb. Most of the tracks here also hates V-shaped IEMs.

Click to expand...

CRA replay of guitars in these tracks are dry, still has enough definition and clarity however it is far from being natural sounding. Drums are detailed and precise, drums have that nice kick, depth and punch to them. Wind instruments are not so natural sounding like ZEX Pro and are more in the sterile side rather than being musical. Detail retrieval is top tier, it retrieves detail with ease, however there’s a feeling of brittleness to the notes, like they are glasses that easily breaks on the stage. Cymbal’s life and death are properly portrayed and is never harsh sounding or too bright. Piano is okay, there’s enough weight in the lower notes, however like the issue with the other instruments, upper notes are somehow too sharpened or sterile.

CRA imaging with the said test tracks are excellent for the price, I can locate the instruments in the holographic stage, however, there’s some instances where they are muddling in front instead of being placed around my headspace. Imaging is excellent, staging is meh. Separation of the instrument are quite fantastic in this IEM, somehow beats my Heart Mirror and ZEX Pro when it comes to separation. Truth to be told, the CRA dynamic is so fast that there’s some instances where I thought “Am I listening to a balanced armature?”.
Replay Rating: Above Average



2. Daydream by Kenshi Yonezu (Played in HibyMusic)

Male Vocals, Staging, Bass and Imaging

Click to expand...

Kenshi's voice at the start is somehow dry while also being weighted and detailed. Due to the dry nature of the vocals, there’s no sense of emotion to Kenshi’s voice. The cowbell at 01:25 are still audible and full of details even with the bass guitar and drums jamming as hard as they can. The piano at 02:27 are nuanced and audible even there’s many things happening in that part of the track. The backing voice at 03:38 is so satisfying like I can hear how they approach the stage and leave the stage, fantastic. Imaging is also excellent, I can easily locate the drums, the cowbells, guitars and piano on the stage. Bass is unbelievably amazing in this track, its clean, tight and full of texture, best bass presentation I’ve heard so far.
Replay Rating: Excellent (Superb for BASS)



3. Toumin by Yorushika (Played in HibyMusic)

Female Vocals, Guitars, Staging, Harmonics and Bass Response

Click to expand...

Very good replay by the CRA, the drums snaps and kicks at the start is portrayed with clarity, cleanliness and punch. The guitars are also detailed even if they are dryer than usual. Sui’s voice is also well weighted, nuanced and sparkly, however there’s a sense of dryness to them, the dryness is not bad in any way, it’s just that this IEM may not suit vocal lovers. Staging is also very good, however unlike ZEX Pro, the instruments are not placed around my headspace instead they are mushing in front for space. CRA also plays this track with more energy and bite than ZEX Pro and BL03, if you like energetic signatures CRA will suit you well.
Replay Rating: Average



4. Make it Rain by Ed Sheeran (Played in Tidal Masters)

Male Vocals, Stage, Guitars and Treble Quality

Click to expand...

Wow, CRA detail retrieval with this track is quite unreal, I can somehow feel the atmosphere that the track wants to convey. Ed Sheeran’s voice is also accommodating, warm and lovely, it never feels lean or lacking, near being emotional. Staging of this track is also excellent, it feels like I’m in the wide soundscape where Ed is singing in a concert hall while the instruments are in front of me. The bite of the guitar and cymbals are also quite enticing, it’s sharp but never harsh or peaky, it somehow gives life to this track. Amazing
Replay Rating: Superb



5. God of Ink by SawanoHiroyuki feat mpi (Played in HibyMusic)

Guitar Timbre, Male Vocals, Treble Quality, Staging

Click to expand...

Now, this is where the CRA shines, this track needs some energy to sound good and CRA give that energy with poise and finesse. The drums snaps and kicks, guitars and piano are properly nuanced and are well defined (quite fantastic replay with CRA, beats my Heart Mirror and ZEX Pro). The male vocals are also not too bright nor too warm, kind of in the middle, very good representation of the male vocals, very nuanced and detailed. The cymbals are also very detailed and never approaches the harshness territory, excellent upper treble control. If you like SawanoHiroyuki or tracks with the same vibe/genre I’d recommend the CRA more than ZEX Pro or Heart Mirror.
Replay Rating: Superb



6. Oort no Yume Nagi Yanagi (Played in HibyMusic)

Sibilance Test, Female Vocals, Lo-fi Test

Click to expand...

The replay is quite good, treble control of CRA with this track is quite unreal. Nagi’s voice is quite good however, it’s a little sharp for my taste. The atmosphere is also excellently portrayed by the CRA, the background noises are still audible and is never jumping to me at any point of the track. Piano are also clear and detailed, and still quite satisfying even if it’s sharper than usual. Nagi’s little breaths are also audible and quite lovely, really captures the emotion that Nagi portrays in the track.
Replay Rating: Excellent

Comparison
CRA vs ZEX Pro
In my opinion, CRA is not an upgrade to ZEX Pro. They just fill different niches. ZEX Pro captures people who like relaxed and natural-sounding signatures, while CRA captures people who like energetic and aggressive signatures. If we talk about technicalities, both have cons and pros. ZEX Pro has a more natural feel to its soundstage while also images instruments amazingly, while CRA has a wider and more artificial stage but mushier when it comes to staging. Both CRA and ZEX Pro almost have the same resolution, with CRA retrieving more details in the upper treble and ZEX Pro retrieving more details in the lower frequencies. When it comes to tuning, all I can say is that CRA does not fix the ZEX Pro problem, instead it creates another issue where it becomes too sharp and a little glassy compared to ZEX Pro. I think the perfect tuning for me is ZEX Pro but with reduced roll-off post 10kHz (and not adding a peak there). The roll-off is fine for me since it makes the ZEX Pro more accommodating for longer listening sessions. Overall, with my library, ZEX Pro wins. CRA is too aggressive for my taste more than Heart Mirror.

CRA vs ZEX
CRA stomps ZEX in any way possible... like it’s not even a joke. CRA is cleaner, the bass is more satisfying, there’s almost no midbass bleed, the vocals are detailed and clear, CRA retains the energy and dynamism of ZEX without being harsh or peaky, CRA is more coherent, and the clarity and resolution of CRA is miles ahead of ZEX.

"It seems like it has become a tradition that every new KZ release will overshadow the old budget ones." F for ZEX. CRA wins.

CRA vs CA16 Pro
Would you look at that as a budget offering wanting to fight with the more expensive KZ offering? The CRA almost replaces the CA16 Pro if it is not for the imaging and staging. CA16 Pro, still has peaks and is a little harsh in higher volumes when compared to CRA, but its technicalities (staging, imaging, detail retrieval, speed) are simply far superior. A little push with CRA and it can easily beat the CA16 Pro. CA16 Pro wins.

CRA vs Blon BL-03
Now this is the fight. If you think that the BL-03 lacks the bite and technicalities, and that the bass is too muddy or slow, then CRA is the upgrade you are looking for. Like, CRA is just an analytical version of BL-03 (tighter bass and way extended treble). However, what CRA fails to capture, which BL-03 easily portrays, is the natural feel of the vocals. If you haven’t noticed yet, I’m always noting the brittleness of CRA (this characteristic especially applies to the vocals). To be honest, CRA tuning is very excellent for the price, but it sounds artificial and a bit dry compared to BL-03. The carbon diaphragm of the oppoty gives life and character to the vocals. Yeah, I can say that the vocals are more detailed and nuanced in the CRA. However, most of the time, it fails to capture the emotion that the singer wants to express in a song. With that, there’s no competition. They are both good for what they specialize in doing. CRA is more speedy, technical, and energetic. BL-03, on the other hand, is more organic and natural sounding. Tie

CRA vs KZ EDX
NO. Same scenario with ZEX, CRA is better in every way can’t comment anymore. F for EDX. CRA wins.

CRA vs Heart Mirror
Yeah. NO. I don't understand why people are saying that CRA is an upgrade to Heart Mirror, yeah NO. Like the scenario with BL-03, Heart Mirror has that enticing vocal reproduction that CRA fails to capture, I can say that CRA is better in treble than Heart Mirror, however Heart Mirror does not have that glassyness/brittleness that CRA has, Heart Mirror is more natural sounding and more pleasing to listen to compared to the aggressive and energetic nature of CRA. Technicalities is still better in Heart Mirror since instruments are not mushing on the stage compared to CRA. Heart Mirror also has that natural feel to the stage like what ZEX Pro has, CRA is just too artificial in my opinion. Heart Mirror easily wins.

Mods
Stock cable and eartips will work fine for the CRA, however there’s also some noticeable improvement when using different eartips. Cable upgrade is not required.

1. Sony EP EX-11 : Good eartips, subdues the sharpness that CRA has, also makes sure that the vocal has enough weight to complement with the brightish nature of CRA.
2. Stock Tips : Recommended, if you think that CRA is already good sounding for you, don’t change ear tips as it somehow alters the sound. Go narrow tips if you think that CRA is too sharp, go wide bore if you think it’s too bassy (which will never happen lol)
3. Spinfits CP100 : Average, I still recommend stock tips, however if you think that stock tips is not that comfortable you can try this eartips instead, the caveat is that it will make your CRA more v-shaped.
4. Foam Tips: Widens the stage, makes the notes leaner, not recommended.

Tested Synergies

• The Organic-inator
  (Avani + CRA with stock eartips and cable)
  Very good pairing, however it will subdue some of the micro-details that CRA has. If you think that CRA is too sharp or bright you can try this combo. It will also reduce the brittleness that the CRA has, and give more warmth to the vocals and instruments.
  
  
• Detail Madness
  (Abigail + CRA with stock eartips and cable)
  Vocals are more artificial but is more detailed, sparkly and nuanced. Also, will make CRA stage wider than Avani. Bass has good texture and punch, it’s more visceral than the Organic-inator synergy. Microdetails will pop out more, imaging will be more distinct and less mushy. However, since this synergy will make CRA more detailed, the brittleness nature of CRA will also show more often. Overall, will make CRA drier and more analytical.
  
  
• Bread and Butter with Sugar on Top
  (OG CX-31993 + CRA with stock eartips and cable)
  Perfect synergy, will remove the brittleness that CRA has in most tracks (brittleness still there in acoustic and jazzy tracks). Detail retrieval and tonality is like the Detail Madness synergy but is more organic and natural, this synergy is in the middle of Avani and Abigail synergy. If you want to retain the details of CRA without going to the two extremes (organic and analytical) then this synergy is the best, in my opinion.

Technical Aspects
Shown in this section are the frequency response of the CRA. The measurements are taken by a Dayton IMM-6 Mic with a DIY Tube Coupler, so assume that this measurements are not that accurate compared to the graphs released by the reviewers who have an IEC-711 coupler. Suggestions about this section are always welcome.

As you can see in the graph, CRA has a larger peak at 5kHz, the said area makes guitars, violins and pianos sharper than usual, ZEX Pro is more polite in that region. Additionally unlike ZEX Pro, CRA does not have the dip below 8kHz (Brilliance Region) making air frequencies more pronounced resulting to CRA sounding more spacious, open and detailed.

Click to expand...

CSD Plot Parameters and Analysis are based on this blog:
https://diyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/tutorials/how-to-interpret-graphs/csdwaterfall-spectrum/​

Click to expand...

Recommend Tracks/Genres
Rock, Modern Pop, Old Pop, RnB, Trance / EDM, Hip-hop, Rap, BGGAR Library, Some Japanese Music (Sawano Hiroyuki, King Gnu, Eve, etc.)

“Not that good” Tracks
Bossa Nova ☹ (Too sharp and sterile), Orchestra (Too sterile and energetic), Acoustic (Guitars are too sharp), Live (Stage is too artificial), Jazz (Vocals needs that “emotion”), and Some Relaxed Japanese Music (Japanese tracks that needs warmth/sense of space to the vocals)

Shop Links
Buy at KZ Official Website：CCA CRA
Bread and Butter with Sugar on Top Dongle: CX-31993

Overall Rating
C (Same Sound Rank as the Blon BL-03)
A (Relative to Price)
Recommended but there are better options.

Final Words
Hey, thanks for reaching this part! Hope you enjoy the read, even if it is quite long....

Summary

Budget End Game……oh? you need more?..okay…
The best IEM I’ve own so far, the sound signature is neutral with sub-bass boost you can hear every detail in the music, there’s no discernible frequency that is too much or lacking, everything is laid out naturally. Excellent soundstage and imaging, imagine as if you’re in the studio with the singer, the instruments can be easily pinpointed and has enough note weight to them, it’s like they are physically around. Bass is tight, clean and fast, there’s no mid-bass bleed, rendering vocals with enough definition and clarity, it’s quite lovable. Moreover, I can’t detect any driver incoherency, its smooth as butter for a tri-bid, the three-drivers are all fast making the ZEX Pro quite enjoyable with fast and complex tracks.

Click to expand...

Finally, I’d like to congratulate KZ for this IEM, they really outdone their selves. Thank you for bringing this IEM to the budget section.

Disclaimer

• I like to thank KZ for providing me a review unit of the ZEX Pro.
• Jeff from KZ sent this unit for my honest opinion and assessment.
• Rest assured that this review will be bias-free.
• As always, since our ears have different shapes and resonances, your mileage may always vary.
• You can also visit my site for the nicer version of my reviews: XerusKun Archives
• This review will be quite long, apologies in advance. hehe
• And don't forget to take my review with salt and always cross reference

Preliminary I __φ(．．

• Unlike my other IEM reviews, I didn’t test the ZEX Pro (ZP) for at least 1 week, this is due to the reason that it sounded near perfect for my ears, I love ZP so much that I want to share my thoughts to other people immediately.
• I tested the ZP with Nicehck 8-core OFC cable and Sony-ex 11 tips, cable rolling is a must for ZP, so please before trying the ZP read the Preliminary II first. Cause, I’ve seen some people not enjoying their ZP and I kinda experience the same when I first tried it out of the box.
• My library mainly consists of Japanese music, so if you’re a fan of them like me, then we might have the same taste. I also listen to various genre like hiphop, rap, orchestra etc. but not that often compared to the Japanese ones.

Preliminary II __φ(．．
My experience with ZP is a roller coaster, out of the box (stock cable and eartips). ZP sounds lifeless, un-engaging and flat. I tried to understand its signature for an hour but I just can’t seem to like it. The sound is hazy, peaky and just MEH out of the box, its like I’m missing something. I also thought that the OG ZEX is better than the ZP at that point (like what other users also reported in Facebook).
However, as I replace the stock cable with my Nicehck 8-core cable, magic happens…everything became vibrant, dynamic and engaging while also retaining the neutral signature, like what?? Am I still listening to ZEX Pro?? With that I recommend the buyers of the ZP to do the following.

• Change the stock cable and throw it in the trashcan (just kidding..hhahaa), treat the ZEX Pro with love and it will sing with poise and finesse, put a nice cable to it, any high-quality cable will work 4-core, 8-core or even 16-core (I highly recommend a Nicehck cable).
• If the upper treble is somehow peaky specially at the 8kHz region, use narrow bore tips like Sony EX-11 to reduce it. Wide-bore will intensify that region but will also give more sparkle to ZP, the choice is yours.

Epilogue to Preliminary II ___〆(・∀・)

(This section will contain a lot of hopium so skip this part if you don’t want to hear some BS. However if you’re interested with my experience then continue reading..)

Click to expand...

After my honeymoon with the ZP, I’ve tried to test the stock cable again and from that something bizarre happen. I can’t detect any differences between my stock cable and my 8-core cable anymore, like wth. My theory (take this with a bucket of salt) is that the 8-core cable energizes something in the ZEX Pro that makes it sound more dynamic and energetic, like the stock cable is not enough to drive that certain driver. I think, the driver in fault is the magnetostat driver, it seems that the stock cable can’t charge it properly making the out of the box experience kinda MEH since there’s no dynamics and energy that should be provided by the fast magnetostat, I think the 8-core cable awakens the magnetostat making the ZEX Pro dynamic and just plain amazing. After waking up the magnetostat you can use any cable you want even the stock one.

My Target Sound Signature
My target sound is the ZEX Pro…ahhh. I mean I like IEMs with neutral leaning to bright or Harman 2019 signature. However, V-shaped or U-shaped will also work as long as there are sufficient technicalities. Congestion, bass bloat, and muddiness are a big no for me.

Equipment

• Avani DAC (Realtek ALC5686)
• Samsung Galaxy Note 9
• CX-31993

Thy Frequency Spectrum
This is the best IEM I have tried to date, if this is what TOTL tuning is, then thank you very much KZ-sama for bringing this blessing to us, peasants. That’s it! No introductions needed for this part.

Bass: 5/5
Fast, clean and tight, midbass bleed is non-existent. Bass rumble is still audible and isn’t overtaking any of the melodic frequencies. Bass is also full of texture, the tapping of the drums, bass riffs, kick drums, etc. like every instrument that lies within the bass region is clearly audible, defined and replayed with poise. This is the cleanest bass I’ve heard in an IEM so far. Superb.

Midrange: 5/5
I’m in love with how ZP portrays the midrange, like the fundamentals of the instruments are clearly defined and nicely weighted. Like they are physically within my headspace, I’m exaggerating but to me it feels like I can touch them. The vocals…hmmmm..how can I describe the vocals….its freaking fantasticccc!!! I can’t…..am I listening to a KZ IEM anymore? The male and female vocals are just replayed with smoothness, nuance, weight, naturalness and sparkle, like everything I want with the vocals is portrayed by the ZP, the vocals are also not too forward nor recessed, like wth. If I have to nitpick, the female alto voices needs more push since they are kind of recessed, but for the asking price this type of midrange performance is in another level.

Treble: 4.75/5
Organic, natural and sparkly. The lower treble is tuned so well that I can’t detect any harshness in the treble region, instruments like piano and strings are not that bright like Heart Mirror but still properly nuanced and is very detailed. ZP also has enough 10k above energy to contribute to its wide staging. I didn’t rate it as high as 5 since there’s a peak at 8kHz making cymbals crashes unnaturally forward at times. Fortunately, the 8kHz peak can be reduced with a narrow silicon eartips like Sony EX-11.

Technicalities

• The coherency between the Magnetostat, Dynamic and Balanced armature are quite smooth; truth to be told I can’t detect where the BA actually plays in the frequency spectrum, like is it even turned on? There’s still a magnetostat flavor but not as noticeable as the ZEX.
• Soundstage is impressive and feels so natural, imagine as if you’re in a studio with the artist, the stage has an above average height and width, while the depth is below average. It isn’t holographic like what other people may prefer, but it’s so natural and real…. like this soundstage is something you will only hear in higher end gears.
• Separation is superb. Instruments have their own space in that natural soundstage and is portrayed with physicality. Instruments are easy to pinpoint while vocals are centered. Instruments does not bother the vocals whatsoever and each music element has their own space in that wide soundstage. If you’ve watched a live band performing, the experience is kind of the same.
• Driver speed is fast, like real fast. ZP can handle my complex metal and trance songs with finesse and accuracy like what? I can’t detect any congestion even with the bass hitting as hard as it can, vocals are still clear and well-defined.

The Radar Chart

The charts below show how ZP performs, this is still a subjective approach but the chart can give you a bigger picture of what you're trying to purchase. Moreover, the chart only takes into consideration all of the IEMs I have tried so far which is around the price range of $10 to $80. If you want to see a comparison to higher priced gears kindly check other reviews.

Click to expand...

Music Analysis


1. Pale Blue by Kenshi Yonezu (Played in Tidal Masters)
[Male Vocals, Staging, Imaging]
Kenshi voice at the start is so weighted and feels so real. The “zutto” is quite sharp in some iems like Heart Mirror but reproduced quite naturally by the ZP. The piano at 0:15 is so detailed and nuanced, I can’t detect any over-sharpening or harshness, the instruments are also placed properly on that wide stage and I can easily differentiate each of them. The fundamentals of the drums, piano and guitar throughout the track are so natural, it feels like I can touch them. Moreover, Kenshi’s voice throughout the track remain poise and finesse even with the hard-hitting bass appearing frequently in the track. Amazing Replay.
Replay Rating: Superb


2. The Clouds and the Ghost by Yorushika (Played in Tidal Masters)
[Female Vocals, Staging, Harmonics, Bass Response]
One of the tracks that made me fall in love with ZP. The replay is quite unreal. The clock, chime, bells, guitars, gentle whisper and water droplets at the start and throughout the track feels so real, like I can clearly locate them one by one without any efforts at all, plus the harmonics (echoes) decays so naturally like arrggghhh,, its so beautiful. Don’t forget Suis’ voice, it’s not that sharp like Heart Mirror but, like, it’s very natural I can’t explain it, I freaking love how ZP plays this track, I’m speechless……
Replay Rating: Superb


3. Afire Love by Ed Sheeran (Played in Tidal Masters)
[Male Vocals, Stage, Treble Quality, Bass]
The piano arrrghhh, so beautifully portrayed by the ZP, like the attack of the piano keys, the decays I can clearly hear them. The lower frequency instruments like drums and bass guitar also retains its tightness and cleanliness throughout the track, very good punch and texture. Ed Sheeran’s voice is also lovely, it never feels lean or lacking, it’s quite emotional to say the least. The staging of this track is also quite good, it feels like I’m in the studio where Ed is singing in front of me and the instruments are placed around me. The violin also sounds so natural like, it never feels too sharpened or too muted. Again, another superb replay by the ZP.
Replay Rating: Superb


4. Sololique by ShibayanRecords feat Milka (Played in HibyMusic)
[Female Vocals, Treble Quality, and Imaging]
The..the piano again…like it’s so detailed I can’t explain it… And also daamnn, Milka's voice in this track is soooo natural. Quite in-love with her voice like arrrghhhh. The bass is also textured and clean, it rumbles but it does not overshadow the melodic frequencies. Moreover, the stage in this track is also wide but not too wide like CA16 Pro. The flute, drums, and piano are weighted and nuanced and like they are physically within the stage. The macrodetails and dynamics are just unreal…Why does it feel like I’m watching a studio performance, like what the….No comment, I can’t explain it even more…
Replay Rating: Superb


5. Binary Star by SawanoHiroyuki[nZk] feat Tielle (Played in HibyMusic)
[Guitar Timbre, Female Vocals, Treble Quality, Staging]
Come on ZP, you can’t do this to me, its already the 5th track like why can’t you stop being too good like wth?! The starry night atmosphere at the start is so detailed and clear, the fundamental details of the guitars and piano are so good and properly nuanced..The vocals are properly weighted and has enough sparkle. The bass remains clean even if the kick drums hit so hard…and..and..This is just witchery at this point. ZP needs to be stopped.
Replay Rating: Superb


6. Just Be Friends by prkr feat Nagi Yanagi (Played in HibyMusic)
[Guitar Timbre, Female Vocals, Lo-fi Test]
The replay is still acceptable, the guitars and cymbal crashes are still rendered wonderfully with details, even if the track has a foggy atmosphere to it. Nagi’s voice remains controlled throughout the track and does not show any harshness or shrillness whatsoever. The drums and bass guitar are still quite punchy and detailed even if the mastering is not that clean. However, the cymbal crashes are too much with the stock tips, with sony ex-11 its quite bearable.
Replay Rating: Excellent


7. Camomille Moody Afternoon by ShibayanRecords (Played in HibyMusic)
[Timbre, Imaging, Staging]
The ultimate test for timbre, staging, and imaging by the legendary ハム (Hamu). This the first KZ that I’ve tried that handles this track with naturality and finesse. The instruments are so natural-sounding I can almost touch them. The warmish atmosphere is also fantastically portrayed by the ZP, it feels so real….. like the instruments never mushed together instead they have their own spaces/layers on the stage and just blends wonderfully to create a fantastic melody. The bass also retains its tightness and somehow rumbly nature while being clean and poise. The upper frequency instruments also sound so detailed and clear, there’s no harshness or over-sharpening happening, quite unreal replay by ZP. Can’t explain it even more. This is an END Game material for my music taste, it’s a bold statement, I know, but this ZP is just in another league, it does not belong to the $35 range truth to be told..
Replay Rating: Superb

Comparison
ZEX Pro vs ZEX
These are two different beasts; one will give you clean and natural replay while the other one will give you a unique warmish flavor to your music. As for me I like my music to be as natural as possible and that’s why I liked Harman tuned iems, the unique warmth that the OG ZEX provides is just unnecessary for certain type of tracks. ZEX Pro is just cleaner, more natural and lovable to listen to. ZEX Pro also portrays my library so well that its quite unreal. OG ZEX in my opinion only works for certain genres and the midbass bloat is just quite irritating sometimes. For this reason, ZEX Pro wins, because of my library and how I like my music to be replayed.

ZEX Pro vs CA16 Pro
Finesse vs Fun. If you want an upgrade to the KZ sound signature or you’re one of the persons who like bassy energetic sound, just go for the CA16 Pro and be contented. However, if you’re like me who like poise and naturalness in their music, then look no further and buy the ZEX Pro, it’s a no brainer for people who like to hear the proper tone of the instruments. ZEX Pro wins.

ZEX Pro vs Blon BL-03
BL-03 is already obsolete when the Heart Mirror arrives, the only thing that the 03 has is its timbre and natural midrange. However, ZEX Pro takes that timbre and refine it even further while also giving you above average technicalities. No competition. ZEX Pro wins.

ZEX Pro vs KZ EDX
Same comment with the CA16 Pro, if you’re tight in budget and you need a bassy energetic set just then go for EDX, it still has that KZ DNA. ZEX Pro is nothing like the other KZs, its tuning is made to replay music as natural as it can be while also retaining the staging of their old offerings. ZEX Pro wins.

ZEX Pro vs Heart Mirror
This is the hardest decision I have to make, I love both of them, but I’m leaning more toward the ZEX Pro, like think of ZEX Pro as a refined Heart Mirror, with lesser upper treble energy and sub-bass extension. Like all of the things I want in my Heart Mirror is already in the ZEX Pro. However, HM still has that sparkle and enticing female vocals that’s just hard to ignore. The thing I hate with my HM is that it sounds thin in some genres like rock and lo-fi tracks, and the instrument fundamentals are not portrayed properly at times, like its weightless and just harmonics.

Unlike HM, ZEX Pro balances the female vocals and makes it more natural and weighted, male vocals are also a delight compared to HM. ZP is also friendly to all genres unlike HM. There’s also a proper sub-bass boost with the ZP which is lacking in the HM.

Overall ZEX Pro is just an anomaly that crushes the HM in some areas. With the improvements that ZP provides I’m kind of wanting its signature more compared to HM. Let’s just use the analogy that HM just became the girlfriend of the ZEX Pro. ZEX Pro wins.

Mods
Treat the ZEX Pro with a nice cable and it will show you its prowess immediately. Any high-quality cable will work, just please treat him right and he will give you the sound that you want. For the tips, listed below are the ones I’ve tried.

1. Sony EP-EX11
Best eartips for me, removes the 8kHz peak while retaining the neutrality of the ZP.

1.5. KZ ZEX Default Eartips

Seen someone saying that the 8kHz peak can be offset to 10kHz by deep inserting the IEM, the default ZEX tips does that.

Click to expand...

On par with 1, but brighter by a bit.

2. Generic White Wide Bore Tips
Will give ZP more sparkle, however 8kHz will became more intense. Kind of recommended if you think that ZP lacks clarity or sparkle.

3. KZ Starline Tips
Average, shows the 8kHz peak, most balanced eartips for the ZP.

4. Reverse Starline Tips
More treble, don’t….

5. Foam Tips
Removes the sub-bass, makes the male vocals leaner, not recommended.

Cables
Any nice cable will work. Just, let the stock cable have its peace.

Source
Stock Smartphone: There’s some fuzziness and the sub-bass are more audible than Avani and CX31193. Staging is also smaller and much more compressed.
Avani (Recommended): The most dynamic pairing so far, cleans out the fuzziness while also providing sufficient details in the vocals and instruments. Stage is also wider and taller by a bit.
Abigail (CX31993) (Recommended): Makes the ZEX Pro separate instruments more distinctly while also having the same stage as Avani.
CX31993: Cleanest pairing, extracts more details from the ZP. Stage is smaller than Avani but sparkles are more nuanced.

Tested Synergies

1. ZEX Pro + Avani (ALC5686) + Sony EP EX-11 tips (The Pleasure Set)
Favorite synergy so far, Avani widens the stage and adds more midrange weight and nuance to the ZEX Pro. Cymbal crashes are still compressed but still passable due to the warmish nature of the source. Very pleasing pairing if you're looking for a smooth and organic sound. Sony EP EX-11 tips also makes sure that the somehow compressed cymbals is tamed down and will not bother you throughout your entire listening session.

2. ZEX Pro + Avani (ALC5686) + OG ZEX Default Tips (The Balancer)
Same with 1, with the OG ZEX Default tips making the tonality a little colder than the sony tips. 8kHz or the cymbals crashes are still subdued but vocals specially male vocals are more leaner than 1. If you think that the ZEX Pro is too sub-bass focused or lacks the bite, this synergy is a good option.

3. ZEX Pro + Abigail (CX-31993) + Sony EP EX-11 tips (Technicalities Enabler)
This is my most recommended synergy if you want more details and separation with your ZEX Pro. Abigail makes the whole ZEX Pro tonality colder than Avani. Bass will be more tight and controlled, highs will be more sparkly and vocals will be less intimate than 1. Moreover, instrument separation will also be more distinct and harmonics will pop out more often than Avani. The staging is almost the same as 1. Sony tips are recommended in this synergy, since Abigail makes the cymbal crashes more defined, sony tips will make sure that cymbals crashes are still palatable even if its compressed.


Recommend Tracks/Genres

1. Anything...except tracks that contains a lot of cymbals and non properly mastered tracks.

Shop Links
Official Website：https://www.kztws.com/products/zexproxcrinclecrn

Overall Rating
S (Currently one of my tops)

See my rankings here : My IEM Rankings

Click to expand...

A (Relative to Price)
Recommended.

Final Words
Hey, thanks for reaching this part! Hope you enjoy the read, even if it is quite long....
Also, I'm so proud with KZ..this..this IEM is just beautiful..

Addendum
Crinacle Treble and Bass Equalization Preset for Wavelet
If you think that your ZEX Pro lacks the treble bite or the cymbals are too thin or it lacks the mid-bass. You can refer to the drive link below to download the converted Wavelet preset (GraphicEQ) for the treble fix and bass boost PEQ recommended by crinacle at official KZ discord.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1nGDUU28HM-A6R364E-kYCY8wnDOHe_nG?usp=sharing



crinaclefix - default treble fix
crinacle fix + palatable air - default treble fix but 12kHz is reduced to 6dB
crinacle fix + bass - default treble fix with bass boost at 150 Hz.

Honeymoon Phase
This is the only IEM, where as soon I insert it to my ears, my dopamine levels immediately go up, because I just can’t believe what I’m hearing, like is this real?? For $35 dollars??? The replay is just so natural I’m speechless….

PS: 3rd Week of using the ZEX Pro, yeap still inlove with it. Superb replay with japanese music with magical or symphonic vibe to it.

Click to expand...

Accessories
Barebone, which is okay since you’ll get a semi-end game IEM. However, I hope KZ release a version with an 8-core cable cause the stock cable won’t cut it.