Reviews by bill0717
U shaped
The test unit of this review was provided by KZ in return for an honest review of the ZES. All of the impressions on this review is mine alone. Take my word as a grain of salt as your experience with the iems may vary with the conditions you will subject it into. This review's rating has also taken into consideration the pricing of the IEM to its performance.
Inclusions and ergonomics
These pair has a metal shell and supplied with a different cable that the usual cables supplied with the KZ IEMs. It also includes the improved starline tips that started with the DQ6s x HBB which performs good and doesn't need replacing. What comes in the box is again pretty barebones with the differenced as I stated above from the previous KZ IEMs I have reviewed. The metal has a nice matte finish with transluscent aqua green accents that gives it a futuristic vibe. The pair is light and can be worn for long hours without much fatigue.
Bass
Sub bass has a nice rumble, a little pronounced but not excessive. midbass is detailed and tight with a tad being punchy. it has a slight midbass bleed and a fast decay. The bass of these pair is clean and well tuned.
Mids
Mids is a bit recessed but clear and has a smooth rendering of the midcentric instruments. Pianos and guitars sound proper, while backup instruments can be heard well. The vocals are good and renders echoes and sustains when needed in a track. The vocal rendering could capture the intended mood/atmosphere of the track.
Highs
The treble well presented, there are slight sibilance in higher volumes on some tracks but overall the treble is well controlled and is easy on the ears. If sparkles or instruments such as wind instruments are needed to be rendered, it is reproduced beautifully and well controlled.
Clarity, Soundstage, and Rendering
Rendering has good layers and sound stage is wide that could be compared to a cinema or theatre. The clarity is great, main details can be cleanly heard and some smaller details that can be muddied or disappear from the rendering. Separation is ok, the instruments sometimes can sound close together but overall good enough for a budget pair.
Overall, these pair could be the plus version of the well revered DQ6s x HBB. And if the budget permits, this is one of my recommendations for a bang for buck iems.
interested? get yours here; https://ph.xiapibuy.com/product/345922933/17002163698
The test unit of this review was provided by KZ in return for an honest review of the ZES. All of the impressions on this review is mine alone. Take my word as a grain of salt as your experience with the iems may vary with the conditions you will subject it into. This review's rating has also taken into consideration the pricing of the IEM to its performance.
Inclusions and ergonomics
These pair has a metal shell and supplied with a different cable that the usual cables supplied with the KZ IEMs. It also includes the improved starline tips that started with the DQ6s x HBB which performs good and doesn't need replacing. What comes in the box is again pretty barebones with the differenced as I stated above from the previous KZ IEMs I have reviewed. The metal has a nice matte finish with transluscent aqua green accents that gives it a futuristic vibe. The pair is light and can be worn for long hours without much fatigue.
Bass
Sub bass has a nice rumble, a little pronounced but not excessive. midbass is detailed and tight with a tad being punchy. it has a slight midbass bleed and a fast decay. The bass of these pair is clean and well tuned.
Mids
Mids is a bit recessed but clear and has a smooth rendering of the midcentric instruments. Pianos and guitars sound proper, while backup instruments can be heard well. The vocals are good and renders echoes and sustains when needed in a track. The vocal rendering could capture the intended mood/atmosphere of the track.
Highs
The treble well presented, there are slight sibilance in higher volumes on some tracks but overall the treble is well controlled and is easy on the ears. If sparkles or instruments such as wind instruments are needed to be rendered, it is reproduced beautifully and well controlled.
Clarity, Soundstage, and Rendering
Rendering has good layers and sound stage is wide that could be compared to a cinema or theatre. The clarity is great, main details can be cleanly heard and some smaller details that can be muddied or disappear from the rendering. Separation is ok, the instruments sometimes can sound close together but overall good enough for a budget pair.
Overall, these pair could be the plus version of the well revered DQ6s x HBB. And if the budget permits, this is one of my recommendations for a bang for buck iems.
interested? get yours here; https://ph.xiapibuy.com/product/345922933/17002163698
Attachments
KZ DQ6S
V-Shaped
Relaxed
All-Rounder
Disclaimer:
The test unit of this review was provided by KZ earphones in return for an honest review of the KZ DQ6s x HBB. All of the impressions on this review is mine alone. Take my impressions as a grain of salt as your experience with the iems may vary with the conditions you will subject it into.
Bass
Nice smooth bass, the midbass is presented as a tight thump. the sub bass is deep when subjected to tracks that need it. It is able to set atmosphere that I find in iems enjoyable. The bass is a well detailed and well controlled. It gives a well defined presentation and not once appeared boomy.
4.5/5
Mids
Mids are recessed, recessed but not bad. Instruments sound great, the mids don't sound dry and has ample ring to and body to each instrument it presents. Midbass bleed is present but not to the point of losing resolution.The male vocals sound thick. For female vocals there are times that the it sounds overwhelmed by the instruments making it sound more recessed than the male counterpart. At times depending on the track, the reverb can be emphasized. The overall profile of the mids sound relaxed with clear and well bodied vocals.
4/5
Treble
the Highs of this pair is in a way relaxed compared to their other products. The highs are in the just right area and has good body that it does not sound thin. There are a few tracks that may sound lacking energy or sparkle due to lesser treble if you are a treble head. I find sibilance with little to none at all. The detail retrieval is also good. Overall, most people will enjoy the clarity of DQ6s since this pair is really well rounded as a general use iem.
4/5
Sound stage
Ok sound stage and imaging. Soundstage is of average wideness similar to a studio or auditorium. Imaging is ok, sound layers are presented. It doesn't give you the impression of listening to a single sound wall. There is little to no congestion in my experience. Separation is great, you can hear individual instruments. The sounds are well placed that you can easily pin point them. The backup instrument sounds such as shakers and clickers are well separated.
4/5
Design and Price point
I like the simple design with a edged metal plate at top. I find the no frills design to my liking. This makes the DQ6S easy to pair with a colored wire giving me ideas on concepts incase I want to set a motif. The price of the pair sound wise is remarkable. The inclusions could be better since they only provide barebones accessories inside the box. But I won't complain much because these are good for its price.
4/5
Overall Verdict: 4.1/5
Interested?
https://ph.xiapibuy.com/product/345922933/14442655006
For International
https://www.kztws.com/products/hbbxkzdq6s
V-Shaped
Relaxed
All-Rounder
Disclaimer:
The test unit of this review was provided by KZ earphones in return for an honest review of the KZ DQ6s x HBB. All of the impressions on this review is mine alone. Take my impressions as a grain of salt as your experience with the iems may vary with the conditions you will subject it into.
Bass
Nice smooth bass, the midbass is presented as a tight thump. the sub bass is deep when subjected to tracks that need it. It is able to set atmosphere that I find in iems enjoyable. The bass is a well detailed and well controlled. It gives a well defined presentation and not once appeared boomy.
4.5/5
Mids
Mids are recessed, recessed but not bad. Instruments sound great, the mids don't sound dry and has ample ring to and body to each instrument it presents. Midbass bleed is present but not to the point of losing resolution.The male vocals sound thick. For female vocals there are times that the it sounds overwhelmed by the instruments making it sound more recessed than the male counterpart. At times depending on the track, the reverb can be emphasized. The overall profile of the mids sound relaxed with clear and well bodied vocals.
4/5
Treble
the Highs of this pair is in a way relaxed compared to their other products. The highs are in the just right area and has good body that it does not sound thin. There are a few tracks that may sound lacking energy or sparkle due to lesser treble if you are a treble head. I find sibilance with little to none at all. The detail retrieval is also good. Overall, most people will enjoy the clarity of DQ6s since this pair is really well rounded as a general use iem.
4/5
Sound stage
Ok sound stage and imaging. Soundstage is of average wideness similar to a studio or auditorium. Imaging is ok, sound layers are presented. It doesn't give you the impression of listening to a single sound wall. There is little to no congestion in my experience. Separation is great, you can hear individual instruments. The sounds are well placed that you can easily pin point them. The backup instrument sounds such as shakers and clickers are well separated.
4/5
Design and Price point
I like the simple design with a edged metal plate at top. I find the no frills design to my liking. This makes the DQ6S easy to pair with a colored wire giving me ideas on concepts incase I want to set a motif. The price of the pair sound wise is remarkable. The inclusions could be better since they only provide barebones accessories inside the box. But I won't complain much because these are good for its price.
4/5
Overall Verdict: 4.1/5
Interested?
https://ph.xiapibuy.com/product/345922933/14442655006
For International
https://www.kztws.com/products/hbbxkzdq6s
Attachments
CCA CA10
U-shaped
The test unit of this review was provided by GK earphones in return for an honest review of the CA10. All of the impressions on this review is mine alone. Your experience with the iems may vary with the conditions you will subject it into.
inclusions, barebones.
For the price could have been better.
fit not so good compared to cca ca16.
could use a better set of wires
Design, close to ca16 pro. I like the the demonstrator style with the minimalist logo. a color choice could have used some choices like black shells on red plastic.
Bass:
Test tracks:
Massive Attack- Angel
Massive Attack - Paradise Circus
Cigarettes after sex - K.
Gorillaz - Feel Good
The White Stripes - Seven Nation Army
Miki Matsubara - Mayonaka no door / Stay with me
Sub bass has a good quality, it presents itself with good thump but not overemphasized. It retains the detail of bass guitar riffs while presenting a clean / deep hum depending on the track presentation. The midbass presents itself as a clean thump that is not too hard nor soft. The presentation creates a surround sound that immerses the listener with a smooth and well controlled bass. There are tracks that indeed appear boomy but not very much of a problem.
4/5
Mids:
Anri - Last Summer Whisper
Tanaka Yuri - Amaotoha Chopin no Shirabe
Taeko Ohnuki - Tokai
Skàld - Rún
Fats Waller - Ain't misbehavin'
Joey Calderazo - Stars Fell on Alabama
Diana Krall - Fly Me to the Moon
The mids are a bit recessed, but clear with ok detail retreival for most of the tracks that I have used. Minimal midbass bleed on some tracks. The vocals lack a bit in the quality of its timbre as the pair sounds dry, lacking emotion on my test tracks. The guitar's presentation is good with enough twang in its body. The piano sound true and has well defined sparkles. Although there are instances that the instruments lack the sustain and decays fast.
3.5/5
Treble:
The treble quality is good. It has enough body that prevents it from sounding thin and is able to play sparkly tracks without much problems. I would say, the trebles are safely tuned but not to the point that it sounded rolled off. There is little to no sibilance depending on track. as for me I find the treble area of CA10 more refined compared to ZEX Pro.
4/5
Soundstage, Separation, isolation and overall implementation.
Wagakkiband - Hoshizukiyo
Wagakkiband - Ikusa
Wagakkiband - Senbonzakura
Taeko Ohnuki - Tokai
John Martyn - Small hours
These pair isolates sounds efficiently. There are no stray noise and produces a surround feel around your head. A quality that it shares with the CA16 Pro. The separation of instruments are good, you could easily pinpoint side instrument pieces such as shakers, tambourines etc. aside from the main instruments in a track. In Wagakkiband's Senbonzakura and Ikusa you could hear the sounds of shamisen, flutes, and guitars. The sound stage is wide enough that there is a sense of room in the presentation comparable to an auditorium.
4/5
Overall, the CA10 is a good pair with its caveats. But with a small change from the stock tips, the CA10 became a great performer specially if you love bass.
If you're interested you can get them here:
https://www.kztws.com
for Philippines
https://shopee.ph/product/573093318/12366364234?smtt=0.216167459-1642490972.9
U-shaped
The test unit of this review was provided by GK earphones in return for an honest review of the CA10. All of the impressions on this review is mine alone. Your experience with the iems may vary with the conditions you will subject it into.
inclusions, barebones.
For the price could have been better.
fit not so good compared to cca ca16.
could use a better set of wires
Design, close to ca16 pro. I like the the demonstrator style with the minimalist logo. a color choice could have used some choices like black shells on red plastic.
Bass:
Test tracks:
Massive Attack- Angel
Massive Attack - Paradise Circus
Cigarettes after sex - K.
Gorillaz - Feel Good
The White Stripes - Seven Nation Army
Miki Matsubara - Mayonaka no door / Stay with me
Sub bass has a good quality, it presents itself with good thump but not overemphasized. It retains the detail of bass guitar riffs while presenting a clean / deep hum depending on the track presentation. The midbass presents itself as a clean thump that is not too hard nor soft. The presentation creates a surround sound that immerses the listener with a smooth and well controlled bass. There are tracks that indeed appear boomy but not very much of a problem.
4/5
Mids:
Anri - Last Summer Whisper
Tanaka Yuri - Amaotoha Chopin no Shirabe
Taeko Ohnuki - Tokai
Skàld - Rún
Fats Waller - Ain't misbehavin'
Joey Calderazo - Stars Fell on Alabama
Diana Krall - Fly Me to the Moon
The mids are a bit recessed, but clear with ok detail retreival for most of the tracks that I have used. Minimal midbass bleed on some tracks. The vocals lack a bit in the quality of its timbre as the pair sounds dry, lacking emotion on my test tracks. The guitar's presentation is good with enough twang in its body. The piano sound true and has well defined sparkles. Although there are instances that the instruments lack the sustain and decays fast.
3.5/5
Treble:
The treble quality is good. It has enough body that prevents it from sounding thin and is able to play sparkly tracks without much problems. I would say, the trebles are safely tuned but not to the point that it sounded rolled off. There is little to no sibilance depending on track. as for me I find the treble area of CA10 more refined compared to ZEX Pro.
4/5
Soundstage, Separation, isolation and overall implementation.
Wagakkiband - Hoshizukiyo
Wagakkiband - Ikusa
Wagakkiband - Senbonzakura
Taeko Ohnuki - Tokai
John Martyn - Small hours
These pair isolates sounds efficiently. There are no stray noise and produces a surround feel around your head. A quality that it shares with the CA16 Pro. The separation of instruments are good, you could easily pinpoint side instrument pieces such as shakers, tambourines etc. aside from the main instruments in a track. In Wagakkiband's Senbonzakura and Ikusa you could hear the sounds of shamisen, flutes, and guitars. The sound stage is wide enough that there is a sense of room in the presentation comparable to an auditorium.
4/5
Overall, the CA10 is a good pair with its caveats. But with a small change from the stock tips, the CA10 became a great performer specially if you love bass.
If you're interested you can get them here:
https://www.kztws.com
for Philippines
https://shopee.ph/product/573093318/12366364234?smtt=0.216167459-1642490972.9
Attachments
CCA CRA
V shaped
Safe tuning
Disclaimer: The test unit of this review was provided by GK earphones in return for an honest review of the CCA CRA. All of the impressions on this review is mine alone. Your experience with the iems may vary with the conditions you will subject it into.
Bass
well detailed and clear mid bass, with ample sub bass. It is in the just right amount and a slightly more than that of ZEX Pro. a slight bleed that sometimes overpowers the midcentric instruments (kimi to lu hana - AKG) although most of the time presentation is clear and has only a gentle thump with the occassional booms.
4/5
Mids
the piano sound full and smooth and the guitars have a good twang sound when needed but the sound lacks sustain at some tracks. the voices have good quality despite being recessed. Still for this asking price I believe this is a good pair.
3.5/5
Treble
The highs of the CRA is well controlled. The amount of highs is enough for me but a bit on the fast decay side of things. the sibilance is negligible with only a little amount(unless you look for it) to nothing. the CRA shares a bit of the ZEX Pro tuning with a bit of more highs which I personally appreciate because of the apparent clarity and sparkly sound it gives. CRA 's treble quality is good for its price. It has ample body that can support the ring not to sound thin and offensive but as I mentioned it also decays fast.
4/5
Sound stage, separation and Clarity
Soundstage is pretty standard to this price range. the size is comparable to a studio or music room. Which can suit your solo listening session or not. separation is ok, I can identify certain instruments while other times there are instruments that sound similar that it don't become easily identifiable. the clarity is good. layering is nothing to write home about but overall good enough.
3.5/5
Ergonomics, Styling, Accessories and Price
I love the looks of the CCA CRA, with the minimalist nameplate on the side and the accent of metal and clear plastic. The pair fits good for me without fatigue for long hours. The color of wire could have been better though since the copper cables doesn't create a monotone effect on the color combination of the iem. Accessories are pretty bare bones, with ok pair of silicone tips. for its asking price CCA CRA offers a competitive pair. For a casual listener and those on a budget this is a good buy.
4/5
If you wish to improve the performance of the CCA you could change the tips to foam tips or something like Final E tips. The foam tips makes the bass more tighter while the Final E tips makes raises the apparent clarity of the mids.
Changing the wires to balanced termination instead of se introduced some changes for me. Even using stock tips the clarity and bass tightness has improved. The instruments also appeared more separated. Although this might have also boosted the highs a notch up since the volume of listening I am comfortable was reduced to 80 from 90 in the Pioneer XDP300r.
If you are interested you can purchase them here
https://ph.xiapibuy.com/product/573093318/15711663407
https://www.kztws.com/products/cca-cra
V shaped
Safe tuning
Disclaimer: The test unit of this review was provided by GK earphones in return for an honest review of the CCA CRA. All of the impressions on this review is mine alone. Your experience with the iems may vary with the conditions you will subject it into.
Bass
well detailed and clear mid bass, with ample sub bass. It is in the just right amount and a slightly more than that of ZEX Pro. a slight bleed that sometimes overpowers the midcentric instruments (kimi to lu hana - AKG) although most of the time presentation is clear and has only a gentle thump with the occassional booms.
4/5
Mids
the piano sound full and smooth and the guitars have a good twang sound when needed but the sound lacks sustain at some tracks. the voices have good quality despite being recessed. Still for this asking price I believe this is a good pair.
3.5/5
Treble
The highs of the CRA is well controlled. The amount of highs is enough for me but a bit on the fast decay side of things. the sibilance is negligible with only a little amount(unless you look for it) to nothing. the CRA shares a bit of the ZEX Pro tuning with a bit of more highs which I personally appreciate because of the apparent clarity and sparkly sound it gives. CRA 's treble quality is good for its price. It has ample body that can support the ring not to sound thin and offensive but as I mentioned it also decays fast.
4/5
Sound stage, separation and Clarity
Soundstage is pretty standard to this price range. the size is comparable to a studio or music room. Which can suit your solo listening session or not. separation is ok, I can identify certain instruments while other times there are instruments that sound similar that it don't become easily identifiable. the clarity is good. layering is nothing to write home about but overall good enough.
3.5/5
Ergonomics, Styling, Accessories and Price
I love the looks of the CCA CRA, with the minimalist nameplate on the side and the accent of metal and clear plastic. The pair fits good for me without fatigue for long hours. The color of wire could have been better though since the copper cables doesn't create a monotone effect on the color combination of the iem. Accessories are pretty bare bones, with ok pair of silicone tips. for its asking price CCA CRA offers a competitive pair. For a casual listener and those on a budget this is a good buy.
4/5
If you wish to improve the performance of the CCA you could change the tips to foam tips or something like Final E tips. The foam tips makes the bass more tighter while the Final E tips makes raises the apparent clarity of the mids.
Changing the wires to balanced termination instead of se introduced some changes for me. Even using stock tips the clarity and bass tightness has improved. The instruments also appeared more separated. Although this might have also boosted the highs a notch up since the volume of listening I am comfortable was reduced to 80 from 90 in the Pioneer XDP300r.
If you are interested you can purchase them here
https://ph.xiapibuy.com/product/573093318/15711663407
https://www.kztws.com/products/cca-cra
Attachments
KZ x Crinacle CRN(ZEX Pro)
Relaxed tuning with great mids
V shaped/U shaped
KZ x Crinacle CRN(ZEX Pro)
is KZ's new offering after their release of the warm welcomed ZEX.
In this review the
KZ x Crinacle CRN(ZEX Pro) will be addressed as ZEX Pro.
ZEX Pro indeed bring new things to the table and can be owned side by side with ZEX. This is not just an upgrade but a totally different iem signature focus.
Disclaimer: The test unit of this review was provided by KZ earphones in return for an honest review of the ZEX Pro. All of the impressions on this review is mine alone. Your experience with the iems may vary with the conditions you will subject it into.
Fit, Design and inclusions
ZEX pro comes with a metal plate stamped with the KZ Logo. the underside is a tinted resin like material that shows the insides of the iem. the fit is great, it is flush and comfortable. It is light and can be forgotten that you are wearing one. The design is beautiful with the KZ logo on emphasis on top and a demonstrator style view from the undersite. The wire included is ok. Similar to those that is supplied with ZEX and CCA CA16 Pro. The tips are starline tips which performs well with the ZEX Pro. You can change the tips as for your preference but out of the box ZEX Pro is already good.
4/5
Bass
The bass region of ZEX Pro is on a weaker side this time. The sub bass has presence but not very heavily implemented, carrying a "just right rumble" to present the sub bass. The midbass has a good body, weaker but has enough hardness in its presentation. It is not imposing making the pair sound natural and relaxed. Both are well controlled and can still be satisfying. Overall, I could say that bass is not the main attraction of this pair. This iem is not for bass heads or those who look for deep rich bass. Although applying different tips can boost the bass, but it will not change much.
3.8/5
Mids
Despite being a V shaped pair, the mids of the ZEX Pro are excellent for the price. It is clear, and dynamic without being offensive. Voices sound natural for both male and female. It gives an impression of perceived feelings with the presentation of the texture of the voice keeping the luscious ambiance created by Anri's voice or the relaxing summer vibes produced by Junk Fujiyama voice. The stringed instruments have great presentation. The sound of the piano has a soft caress feel while keeping the ample presence. The guitar is clear and has ample ring to represent the instrument properly. Some other instruments such as the shamisen being used in some wagakkiband's tracks also captures the right vibe which makes these pair truly enjoyable. Although when compared with higher priced iems, ZEX Pro still has room for improvement I would say they are great at this price point
4.5/5
Highs
The treble area of the ZEX Pro is well controlled. the sparkles, hisses and strikes on treble region instruments are present but never offensive. Brass instruments such as cymbals and hihats are present and clear. They are rendered naturally, with slow decay, it has enough body to present itself without sounding like a can while keeping the peaks in check. The trumpet peaks on you've got to have freedom isn't offensive but is well represented. the flutes on wagakkiband's sasameyuki sounded smooth.
4.5/5
Soundstage, Clarity and Layering
Soundstage is average. The pair sounded like a studio/auditorium setting with the music at the front opening horizontally. While the clarity is great but these pair are non-tolerant on bad tracks. The layering of ZEX Pro is also on the average side together with its separation. Although some of these could be adjusted by tip rolling. For this price I don't consider these as cons for the iem. Yes, there is room for improvement compared to other iems but that will also increase the price.
4.2/5
Overall ZEX Pro is a great starting iem. Signature wise I would get the ZEX and the ZEX Pro as they have different flavors of focused area. Then added with the low price of these iems they are indeed beginner friendly or if you're just looking for a great sounding iem without breaking the bank.
Overall score: 4.3
If you are interested you can get them here:
https://bit.ly/30yBi3c
You can also find these at this website.
https://www.kztws.com/products/zexproxcrinclecrn
Relaxed tuning with great mids
V shaped/U shaped
KZ x Crinacle CRN(ZEX Pro)
is KZ's new offering after their release of the warm welcomed ZEX.
In this review the
KZ x Crinacle CRN(ZEX Pro) will be addressed as ZEX Pro.
ZEX Pro indeed bring new things to the table and can be owned side by side with ZEX. This is not just an upgrade but a totally different iem signature focus.
Disclaimer: The test unit of this review was provided by KZ earphones in return for an honest review of the ZEX Pro. All of the impressions on this review is mine alone. Your experience with the iems may vary with the conditions you will subject it into.
Fit, Design and inclusions
ZEX pro comes with a metal plate stamped with the KZ Logo. the underside is a tinted resin like material that shows the insides of the iem. the fit is great, it is flush and comfortable. It is light and can be forgotten that you are wearing one. The design is beautiful with the KZ logo on emphasis on top and a demonstrator style view from the undersite. The wire included is ok. Similar to those that is supplied with ZEX and CCA CA16 Pro. The tips are starline tips which performs well with the ZEX Pro. You can change the tips as for your preference but out of the box ZEX Pro is already good.
4/5
Bass
The bass region of ZEX Pro is on a weaker side this time. The sub bass has presence but not very heavily implemented, carrying a "just right rumble" to present the sub bass. The midbass has a good body, weaker but has enough hardness in its presentation. It is not imposing making the pair sound natural and relaxed. Both are well controlled and can still be satisfying. Overall, I could say that bass is not the main attraction of this pair. This iem is not for bass heads or those who look for deep rich bass. Although applying different tips can boost the bass, but it will not change much.
3.8/5
Mids
Despite being a V shaped pair, the mids of the ZEX Pro are excellent for the price. It is clear, and dynamic without being offensive. Voices sound natural for both male and female. It gives an impression of perceived feelings with the presentation of the texture of the voice keeping the luscious ambiance created by Anri's voice or the relaxing summer vibes produced by Junk Fujiyama voice. The stringed instruments have great presentation. The sound of the piano has a soft caress feel while keeping the ample presence. The guitar is clear and has ample ring to represent the instrument properly. Some other instruments such as the shamisen being used in some wagakkiband's tracks also captures the right vibe which makes these pair truly enjoyable. Although when compared with higher priced iems, ZEX Pro still has room for improvement I would say they are great at this price point
4.5/5
Highs
The treble area of the ZEX Pro is well controlled. the sparkles, hisses and strikes on treble region instruments are present but never offensive. Brass instruments such as cymbals and hihats are present and clear. They are rendered naturally, with slow decay, it has enough body to present itself without sounding like a can while keeping the peaks in check. The trumpet peaks on you've got to have freedom isn't offensive but is well represented. the flutes on wagakkiband's sasameyuki sounded smooth.
4.5/5
Soundstage, Clarity and Layering
Soundstage is average. The pair sounded like a studio/auditorium setting with the music at the front opening horizontally. While the clarity is great but these pair are non-tolerant on bad tracks. The layering of ZEX Pro is also on the average side together with its separation. Although some of these could be adjusted by tip rolling. For this price I don't consider these as cons for the iem. Yes, there is room for improvement compared to other iems but that will also increase the price.
4.2/5
Overall ZEX Pro is a great starting iem. Signature wise I would get the ZEX and the ZEX Pro as they have different flavors of focused area. Then added with the low price of these iems they are indeed beginner friendly or if you're just looking for a great sounding iem without breaking the bank.
Overall score: 4.3
If you are interested you can get them here:
https://bit.ly/30yBi3c
You can also find these at this website.
https://www.kztws.com/products/zexproxcrinclecrn
Attachments
KZ EDC
Dark to Warm
Isolation is good, Hard to drive
Good price for performance
Quick Disclaimer:
What is said in this review are my opinions and own experiences so please take my word as a grain of salt. The tests are affected by the equipment used and the conditions it was subjected to.
Aesthetic and Ergonomics: For a $8 pair the EDC looks premium. Although made from plastic, the finish managed to remove the plasticky feel from the EDC. The choice of clear colored resin for the face plate with the KZ logo looks great with the iems. The jack is an L jack with a standard wire that is also clear giving a demonstrator look. The earloops are comfortable to wear, partnered with the light weight pair it is good for commute or long listening sessions. As for the connection, I wish KZ made this an interchangeable/removable wires but with the price it is asking for I can't really complain much.
3.8/5
Bass: Big sounding, Relaxed tuning, has good sub bass. the mid bass has noticeable weight but not too hard. The bass is well controlled with only a minimal mid bass bleed. There are tracks that don't sound natural and slightly bloated(this can be caused by other factors), depending on how busy the tracks is but overall negligible for this price point.
4/5
Treble: Picky on tracks, sparkles get a little dull due to tuning. This pair has a treble roll off and if ever present the sound decays fast.
3/5
Clarity: Overall clarity is great, essential details are present with emphasis on mids instruments.
instruments sound true to their real world sound. Specifically guitars and drums.
3.5/5
Separation: Vocals(mains and background) and instruments are well separated and can be pin pointed with minimum effort. even the wahs and other effects are distinguishable.
3.6/5
Mids: Clear vocals, intimate, voices are engaging, and natural sounding. small details in the vocals can be heard such as vibrato and changes in breathing.
4/5
Sound stage: horizontal soundstage with music room. The rendering is kept at minimal, sounding like only a 2 layer line of music.
3.2/5
Compared with KZ's ZEX, these pair are no match. But I will not cross EDC off the list just yet since its tuning is its strong point apart from the price. Price wise this is a no brainer. If you're on a budget and is looking for a pair that can deliver you great music EDC is a good choice. Since it can deliver almost all of the music you throw at it except from a select few.
3.8/5
Workarounds: Changing tips expanded the height of sound stage made it more airy and improved mid bass clarity. the hihats, ride and cymbals are still weak and decays fast but has improved its clarity. This turned the EDC from a dark pair to a warm pair.
Overall Verdict
3.6/5
Devices
Samsung A7 Lite Tab
VE Odyssey HD
Pioneer XDP 300r
Test tracks
Berserkir- Dan Heim
Path to Valhalla - Zergananda
Summer Connection - Taeko Ohnuki
Tokai - Taeko Ohnuki
Last Summer Whisper - Anri
Homura(cover) - Junk Fujiyama
Payphone - Maroon 5
Livin' on a Prayer - Bon Jovi
In Camera - Yumi Zouma
Lonely After - Yumi Zouma
When you sleep - my bloody valentine
Say - Winter
A Favor House Atlantic - Coheed and Cambria
If you are interested for one you can order from
https://shopee.ph/KZ-EDC-1DD-dynami...-With-Microphone-Univ-i.345922933.10064534693
Dark to Warm
Isolation is good, Hard to drive
Good price for performance
Quick Disclaimer:
What is said in this review are my opinions and own experiences so please take my word as a grain of salt. The tests are affected by the equipment used and the conditions it was subjected to.
Aesthetic and Ergonomics: For a $8 pair the EDC looks premium. Although made from plastic, the finish managed to remove the plasticky feel from the EDC. The choice of clear colored resin for the face plate with the KZ logo looks great with the iems. The jack is an L jack with a standard wire that is also clear giving a demonstrator look. The earloops are comfortable to wear, partnered with the light weight pair it is good for commute or long listening sessions. As for the connection, I wish KZ made this an interchangeable/removable wires but with the price it is asking for I can't really complain much.
3.8/5
Bass: Big sounding, Relaxed tuning, has good sub bass. the mid bass has noticeable weight but not too hard. The bass is well controlled with only a minimal mid bass bleed. There are tracks that don't sound natural and slightly bloated(this can be caused by other factors), depending on how busy the tracks is but overall negligible for this price point.
4/5
Treble: Picky on tracks, sparkles get a little dull due to tuning. This pair has a treble roll off and if ever present the sound decays fast.
3/5
Clarity: Overall clarity is great, essential details are present with emphasis on mids instruments.
instruments sound true to their real world sound. Specifically guitars and drums.
3.5/5
Separation: Vocals(mains and background) and instruments are well separated and can be pin pointed with minimum effort. even the wahs and other effects are distinguishable.
3.6/5
Mids: Clear vocals, intimate, voices are engaging, and natural sounding. small details in the vocals can be heard such as vibrato and changes in breathing.
4/5
Sound stage: horizontal soundstage with music room. The rendering is kept at minimal, sounding like only a 2 layer line of music.
3.2/5
Compared with KZ's ZEX, these pair are no match. But I will not cross EDC off the list just yet since its tuning is its strong point apart from the price. Price wise this is a no brainer. If you're on a budget and is looking for a pair that can deliver you great music EDC is a good choice. Since it can deliver almost all of the music you throw at it except from a select few.
3.8/5
Workarounds: Changing tips expanded the height of sound stage made it more airy and improved mid bass clarity. the hihats, ride and cymbals are still weak and decays fast but has improved its clarity. This turned the EDC from a dark pair to a warm pair.
Overall Verdict
3.6/5
Devices
Samsung A7 Lite Tab
VE Odyssey HD
Pioneer XDP 300r
Test tracks
Berserkir- Dan Heim
Path to Valhalla - Zergananda
Summer Connection - Taeko Ohnuki
Tokai - Taeko Ohnuki
Last Summer Whisper - Anri
Homura(cover) - Junk Fujiyama
Payphone - Maroon 5
Livin' on a Prayer - Bon Jovi
In Camera - Yumi Zouma
Lonely After - Yumi Zouma
When you sleep - my bloody valentine
Say - Winter
A Favor House Atlantic - Coheed and Cambria
If you are interested for one you can order from
https://shopee.ph/KZ-EDC-1DD-dynami...-With-Microphone-Univ-i.345922933.10064534693
Attachments
XerusKun
Hello, I just read your review, just want to ask, I want to gift this iem to one of my colleagues, is it good for general pop genre or jazz. The one I will gift it to likes such genre.
CCA CA16 Pro
U/V Shaped All-Rounder
Immersive, Engaging, Smooth sounding
Quick Disclaimer:
What is said in this review are my opinions and own experiences so please take my word as a grain of salt. The tests are affected by the equipment used and the conditions it was subjected to.
Test Equipment:
Pioneer XDP 300r
Samsung S21 Ultra+ VE OHD
Samsung A7 Lite Tablet(Direct)
Hidisz AP80 Pro
Test Tracks:
Coheed and Cambria - No World for Tomorrow(Whole Album)
Bersekir - Danheim
Takk(Whole Album) - Sigus Ros
Star Ring Child - Aimer
I've got you under my skin - Lady Gaga & Tony Bennet
Kiss in my heart - Junk Fujiyama
Tokai - Tanaka Yuri
Homura( Cover) - Junk Fujiyama
Sparkle - Junk Fujiyama
Amaotoha Chopin no Shirabe - Tanaka Yuri
Dark Sentencer - Coheed and Cambria
Rún - Skáld
Bass: Midbass is tuned just right, well-controlled with enough weight. Has no bleed and well-preserved details. The sub-bass is great, has enough volume, is not too overwhelming, and is able to establish an atmosphere for tracks that requires immersion.
4.2/5
Treble: The treble response is an acquired taste. There is a slight peak and even sibilance on a few tracks. I suggest listening at lower volumes if you find this fatiguing. It has a fast decay response but just enough to make an appearance and render the sparkles. As I prefer the presence of highs, I find that the CA16 Pro is just right for my tastes.
3.8/5
Mids: This is one of the points the CCA CA16 Pro shines. The tuning of these iems is a U-shaped/V-shaped pair. Thus, the mids are expected to be recessed. Despite being recessed, CA16 Pro retained a good rendition of its mids. Clear and well detailed, The vocals sound natural and can perform quite well on vocal tracks. The presentation of the mid-centric instruments is beautiful, detailed, and natural. changes in notes, riffs, and plucking of the strings don't get muddied by other instruments and the transition from one another is smooth. Overall the mids perform great for the CA16 Pro.
4.5/5
Soundstage, Separation, and Rendering: Sound stage creates an image of being at the center of a music room and the performance is performed in a circle around you. The separation of instruments is good where you can accurately identify each in a track. Same with the instrument separation, the separation main and second vocals are clean and detailed. The rendering is good giving good layers of sounds where you can identify the placement of the instruments. The isolation helps with the feeling of the ambient music room that immerses you.
4.2/5
Build, Ergonomics, and Price: The build of the CA16 Pro is beautiful. with clear resin plastic for the body showing the insides of the iems and a sleek-looking faceplate. The weight and fit of the iems go hand in hand. It is lightweight and sleek. once you mount it on your ears it is almost as if you are not wearing any iems. The stock tips and wires could be better since the inclusive set are very basic. I would say that the CA16 Pro is a good compromise of budget and performance.
4/5
Overall Score 4.2/5
Workarounds;
Tip Rolling
Ortofon Tips - Slightly made the peaky side of the items apparent. Superb clarity and details but fatiguing.
Final E Wide bore - Brought the vocals forward, with apparent clarity boost on the mids. Slightly boosted the sub bass but maintained to be controlled.
Final E Tips - Cleaner sound, no boosted sub-bass, and enhanced apparent clarity on all areas. brought the mids slightly forward
If interested you can get yours from here
https://www.kztws.com/products/ca16-pro
U/V Shaped All-Rounder
Immersive, Engaging, Smooth sounding
Quick Disclaimer:
What is said in this review are my opinions and own experiences so please take my word as a grain of salt. The tests are affected by the equipment used and the conditions it was subjected to.
Test Equipment:
Pioneer XDP 300r
Samsung S21 Ultra+ VE OHD
Samsung A7 Lite Tablet(Direct)
Hidisz AP80 Pro
Test Tracks:
Coheed and Cambria - No World for Tomorrow(Whole Album)
Bersekir - Danheim
Takk(Whole Album) - Sigus Ros
Star Ring Child - Aimer
I've got you under my skin - Lady Gaga & Tony Bennet
Kiss in my heart - Junk Fujiyama
Tokai - Tanaka Yuri
Homura( Cover) - Junk Fujiyama
Sparkle - Junk Fujiyama
Amaotoha Chopin no Shirabe - Tanaka Yuri
Dark Sentencer - Coheed and Cambria
Rún - Skáld
Bass: Midbass is tuned just right, well-controlled with enough weight. Has no bleed and well-preserved details. The sub-bass is great, has enough volume, is not too overwhelming, and is able to establish an atmosphere for tracks that requires immersion.
4.2/5
Treble: The treble response is an acquired taste. There is a slight peak and even sibilance on a few tracks. I suggest listening at lower volumes if you find this fatiguing. It has a fast decay response but just enough to make an appearance and render the sparkles. As I prefer the presence of highs, I find that the CA16 Pro is just right for my tastes.
3.8/5
Mids: This is one of the points the CCA CA16 Pro shines. The tuning of these iems is a U-shaped/V-shaped pair. Thus, the mids are expected to be recessed. Despite being recessed, CA16 Pro retained a good rendition of its mids. Clear and well detailed, The vocals sound natural and can perform quite well on vocal tracks. The presentation of the mid-centric instruments is beautiful, detailed, and natural. changes in notes, riffs, and plucking of the strings don't get muddied by other instruments and the transition from one another is smooth. Overall the mids perform great for the CA16 Pro.
4.5/5
Soundstage, Separation, and Rendering: Sound stage creates an image of being at the center of a music room and the performance is performed in a circle around you. The separation of instruments is good where you can accurately identify each in a track. Same with the instrument separation, the separation main and second vocals are clean and detailed. The rendering is good giving good layers of sounds where you can identify the placement of the instruments. The isolation helps with the feeling of the ambient music room that immerses you.
4.2/5
Build, Ergonomics, and Price: The build of the CA16 Pro is beautiful. with clear resin plastic for the body showing the insides of the iems and a sleek-looking faceplate. The weight and fit of the iems go hand in hand. It is lightweight and sleek. once you mount it on your ears it is almost as if you are not wearing any iems. The stock tips and wires could be better since the inclusive set are very basic. I would say that the CA16 Pro is a good compromise of budget and performance.
4/5
Overall Score 4.2/5
Workarounds;
Tip Rolling
Ortofon Tips - Slightly made the peaky side of the items apparent. Superb clarity and details but fatiguing.
Final E Wide bore - Brought the vocals forward, with apparent clarity boost on the mids. Slightly boosted the sub bass but maintained to be controlled.
Final E Tips - Cleaner sound, no boosted sub-bass, and enhanced apparent clarity on all areas. brought the mids slightly forward
If interested you can get yours from here
https://www.kztws.com/products/ca16-pro
Attachments
