Introduction
Where to begin? It's been a while since KZ has produced such a divisive pair of IEMs. Lately, they have been crafting really good IEMs, and it doesn't help that the Symphony is overall on the pricier side compared to other models made by KZ. The idea behind the Symphony is quite straightforward: "Our previous planar models were found to be lacking in the bass department. What if, by combining a Dynamic Driver with our Planar one, we could have the best of both worlds in one pair?" With this simple yet effective idea, the Symphony has come into existence.


Disclaimer: I bought the KZ Symphony with my own money.

Technical Specifications
・Drivers: 1 x 13.2mm Planar driver + 1 x 6mm Dynamic Driver
・Impedance: 18 Ω
・Sensitivity: 95 dB

Packaging
The KZ Symphony comes in a different than usual black box, but it shares the same contents as the KZ standard one, which includes:
・The IEM (KZ Symphony)
・3 pairs of KZ Starline silicone ear tips (S, M, L) and one set of medium-sized foam tips
・A QDC 3.5 silver-plated cable

Gears I used for the review:

Drivability
I would highly suggest pairing the Symphony with a good DAC/AMP, as it is almost as power-hungry as the PR2. Needless to say, a good DAC will also improve dynamics and detail retrieval compared to integrated ones. If you have a DAC/AMP that supports a balanced connection, even better! Compared to the 3.5mm unbalanced connection, the soundstage of the Symphony improves massively when used on the balanced port (2.5mm, 4.4mm).



Sound Signature
The KZ Symphony delivers a more “classic” KZ sound, characterized by a distinct V-shaped tuning. The bass presence is noticeable without becoming overwhelming. It provides a solid foundation for the overall sound signature. The midrange, however, takes a step back, residing more recessed and subtly in the background. This contributes to creating a sense of spaciousness and separation. As for the treble, it is crystal clear and with exceptional extension. In summary, the KZ Symphony embodies a classic “fun” signature, and what makes it even more captivating is the expansive soundstage it offers.

Bass
The KZ Symphony showcases a full-bodied bass that manages to strike a balance between precision and control. It performs admirably across both the sub-bass and mid-bass ranges, without encountering any significant issues. Notably, the bass delivers a solid punch, which adds an engaging dynamic to the overall sound. Additionally, it synergizes effectively with the planar driver, introducing a touch of warmth to the IEM. This warmth is particularly valuable, as planar drivers can sometimes lack it on their own. An important observation is that there is no midrange bleed. This means that the bass doesn’t spill over into the midrange frequencies, preserving clarity and separation. In summary, the KZ Symphony’s 6mm driver impresses with its bass performance, offering a well-controlled and punchy experience.

Midrange
As per other reviewers, the midrange in the Symphony is recessed. However, I’d like to emphasize that it’s slightly more recessed than what you may typically encounter in other v-shaped IEMs. In my opinion, the Symphony could have benefited from a subtler V-shaped tuning to cater to a broader audience. But to be honest, I’ve grown to appreciate this tuning over time. Male vocals, lower-stringed instruments, and even female vocals may appear a tad more distant and subdued than usual, yet there’s an undeniable charm to this tuning. Ultimately, the Symphony’s mids, though recessed, are executed with finesse. They serve as a canvas, allowing the lows and highs to truly shine.

Treble
Some individuals have criticized the Symphony’s treble, but I respectfully disagree. For me, the treble is not a drawback; in fact, it stands out as a highlight of this IEM. It shares the same quality that can also be found in the PR3 (same planar driver): the treble is crystal clear with exceptionally good extension. However, it’s essential to recognize that individuals who are treble-sensitive might perceive it as fatiguing. But I believe this is more of a preference issue rather than an inherent flaw of the product. As a side note, I would say that when compared to the PR3 and especially the PR2, the treble can be perceived as a bit ‘tamer’. This effect is due to the fact that it is better counterbalanced by the bass of the 6mm dynamic driver in the Symphony.

Soundstage
The soundstage of the Symphony is remarkably expansive and incredibly immersive, boasting a generous width and really good depth. Additionally, the imaging is excellent, aligning well with other models in the same price range.


Conclusion
The KZ Symphony is a highly competent IEM for the price (I purchased it on sale for $55). In fact, I would even say it’s exceptionally good. It provides a well-rounded, fun and enjoyable listening experience. While I do believe that a less V-shaped tuning might have made it less controversial and divisive, over time, I’ve come to appreciate its uniqueness, and it has become more of a pro than a con for me. So, in the end has the idea behind this hybrid worked? Yes, the Symphony is a KZ planar IEM that doesn’t fall behind in the bass department, while still offering a good performance in the mids and an exceptional one in the treble region, thanks to its very capable planar driver. Does the Symphony still have room for improvement? Undoubtedly, and I’m sure KZ will capitalize on that with a next iteration. But for the time being (especially if you like really good V-shaped IEM) the Symphony has got you covered.