EPZ 320 - Reviews and discussions

Intro
EPZ Audio is a company dedicated to advancing audio technology and creating high-quality audio products. They have been making waves in the audio industry with their innovative sound processing technology and a range of impressive products
EPZ 320 is a 3 Knowles BA iem featuring a sleek and modern design, very likeable look and TP20 pro is a dongle dacamp with dual CS43131 and has 3.5mm and 4.4mm out

Disclaimer
This review reflects my personal and subjective listening experience with the mentioned audio gear product. I would like to thank EPZ Audio for organizing this review tour in my country and allowing me to share my thoughts on the product, it doesn’t influence my review in any form and nor I am compensated.
Before I start, I would like to mention that most of my impressions of the gear is based on the source and test tracks mentioned, so YMMV.
Sources: Onix Mystic XP1 and EPZ TP20 Pro
Technical Specifications
EPZ 320
• Driver Configuration: 3 balanced armature drivers (Knowles USA) for low, mid, and high frequencies.
• Impedance: 19 Ohms.
• Sensitivity: 110 dB.
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
• Noise Reduction: 27 dB.
• Cable: OCC 8 Core High Purity Monocrystalline Copper Silver Plated MMCX Cable.
• Connector: 3.5mm gold-plated plug (supports MMCX, 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm jacks).
• Build Material: DLP 3D printing medical resin.
TP20 Pro
• DAC: Dual Cirrus Logic CS43131
• PCM Decoding: 32-bit/384kHz
• DSD Decoding: DSD256
• Output Power:
o Single-ended: 2Vrms (125mW@32Ω)
o Balanced: 4Vrms (151mW@32Ω)
• THD+N:
o Single-ended: 0.0018%
o Balanced: 0.0008%
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-40kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio:
o Single-ended: 125dB
o Balanced: 130dB
• Dynamic Range:
o Single-ended: 125dB
o Balanced: 130dB
• Output Impedance: 32Ω
• Weight: 56g

EPZ 320
Fit and comfort:
EPZ 320 shells are crafted using DLP (Digital Light Processing) 3D printing technology with medical-grade resin, these are small in size and should be a good fit for majority of people without any issue. The shells have a striking red and blue color indicating right and left respectively.
Treble –
We expect very good treble response when we are dealing with multi BA configuration and I can attest that is the case here, the highs are good on this with ample details, there is a bit lack of air in my experience but otherwise the clarity and brightness is done well. With TP20 Pro, 320 produces excellent details, with the XP1, these highs are bit smoothened.
Mids – The mids are the star of the show of this iem, the moment you start listening to vocal centric tracks, you will fall in love with this iem, I can call it mid centric in terms of its focus on vocals and instruments like acoustic guitar. Both male and female vocals sound natural and organic. I can happily recommend this set to anyone with a budget of $200 who wants a very well done mids. With either of my sources, mids sounded natural though with TP20 Pro, there was more bite and edge.
Bass – EPZ 320 has mid bass focus more than sub bass, you can feel lack of extension in the bass wherein it doesn’t really rumble, it produces sub bass but just that it doesn’t really pound on you, the mid bass thump can be felt, especially with Bollywood tracks, the bass is enjoyable. XP1 helped to produce better sub/mid bass than TP20 pro through which the bass came a bit leaner in comparison
Technicalities Timbre and Tonality – EPZ320 has a hint of BA timbre (again based on its driver configuration) and I am a DD fan so have heard iem in this price range do better timbre but again the driver specs were different. The imaging is good and with good spacing between instruments, I would have liked a bit more air and stage, it has above average stage in this price range.
Reference Tracks – The Hills (Weeknd), Numb (Linkin Park), Believer (Imagine Dragons), Florescent Adolescent (Arctic Monkeys), Hymn for the weekend (Coldplay), Heavy Headed (OAFF & Kayan), Woh Kisna hai (Jasleen Royale), Dil Se Re (Dil Se), Toh Phir Aao (Awarapan), Malhari (Bajirao Mastani), Beautiful People (Ed Sheeran feat. Khalid), Billie Jean (Michael Jackson)

Overall –
EPZ 320 - I really liked my time with this iem, I have a playlist of vocal centric tracks which are from the 90s and I absolutely loved it on 320. Above average technically and inoffensive sound.
TP20 pro – apart from the mobile interference faced a couple of time with my iphone, I like the pairing with 320, it helps 320 achieve that bite and clarity, 4.4 has a bit more volume but doesn’t really add any further resolution or impact but we are talking about $80 dacamp, can be a good consideration with a middle ground kind of sound signature between AKM and ESS dac chips.

Preface:

I would like to thank EPZ for sending this unit as part of the review tour.

Also, I’m not a seasoned reviewer, so whatever I say is purely my observation and your results may vary.

I’m not the one to usually focus on specifications and numbers. I focus more on how happy I am with the equipment’s sound and that’s it.

Disclaimer: All impressions and opinions in this review are my own. I have not been paid or compensated by EPZ or any other entity for this review. My assessment is based solely on my personal experience with the product.

Sources used:

• Dita Navigator
• iBasso DC07 Pro
• L&P W2 Ultra
• D16 Taipan
• RME ADI-2 Pro FS R
• EPZ TP20 Pro

Introduction:

EPZ has been quietly making waves with their focus on balanced armature IEMs. Emerging from a background of crafting well-regarded models like the K1 & 530, EPZ continues its pursuit of sonic excellence with the 320.



Design and Build:

The first thing that struck me about the EPZ 320 is its remarkably compact and lightweight form factor. These IEMs practically disappear into my ears, ensuring a comfortable and unobtrusive fit even during extended listening sessions. The transparent resin shell provides a glimpse into the intricate internal components, adding a touch of visual intrigue. My chosen variant features a captivating red and blue faceplate with golden EPZ branding that subtly shimmers under light, lending an understated elegance to the design.

The stock cable is tangle free and has some heft to it which makes it feel sturdy.











Sound Analysis:

EPZ has tuned the 320 to deliver a balanced sound signature that prioritizes a smooth and natural presentation.

Tonality:

The overall tonality has a gentle warmth that envelops the music in a comforting embrace. This is not a bright or analytical tuning; instead, it emphasizes a relaxed and inviting sound that is perfect for long listening sessions. "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen, with its rich vocals and somber piano accompaniment, is rendered with a touching intimacy and warmth. Switching gears to a more energetic track like "Mr. Brightside" by The Killers, the 320 maintains its composure, delivering the driving energy without a hint of harshness.

Sub Bass:

While the sub-bass extends reasonably deep, it lacks the visceral impact that some bassheads might crave. It provides a foundation for the music but doesn't quite deliver the rumble and slam that some genres demand. In "Angel" by Massive Attack, the subterranean bassline is present but lacks the weight and authority that it possesses on more capable IEMs. In "Radioactive" by Imagine Dragons, the sub-bass that underpins the track's intensity feels somewhat restrained.

Mid Bass:

The mid-bass is a clear strength of the 320. It is punchy, well-defined, and possesses a pleasing texture that adds a satisfying weight to drums and bass guitars. "Hysteria" by Muse, with its driving bassline, truly shines on the 320, demonstrating the IEM's ability to handle complex basslines with agility and control. Similarly, in "Seven Nation Army" by The White Stripes, the iconic bass riff is rendered with impressive clarity and impact.

Lower Midrange:

The lower midrange, while generally well-presented, could benefit from a touch more clarity and definition. Male vocals are reproduced with warmth and fullness, but occasionally lack the nuance and texture that would elevate them to the next level. In "The Sound of Silence" by Simon & Garfunkel, the individual characteristics of their voices are somewhat blurred.

Upper Midrange:

The upper midrange is where the 320 truly shines. Female vocals and instruments like violins are presented with a captivating beauty and realism. There's a subtle sweetness and intimacy to this region that draws the listener in. Listening to "Rolling in the Deep" by Adele, her vocals are emotionally charged and nuanced. Similarly, in "Clocks" by Coldplay, the soaring vocals cut through the mix with precision.

Lower Treble:

While the lower treble is generally well-controlled and avoids any harshness, it occasionally lacks the sparkle and energy that would bring certain genres to life. Cymbals and hi-hats are present but lack the shimmer and decay that would add a sense of realism. In "Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin, the cymbal work is adequately reproduced but lacks the brilliance and airiness heard on more resolving IEMs.

Upper Treble:

The upper treble exhibits a gentle roll-off, which contributes to the overall smooth and non-fatiguing sound signature. However, this also means that some air and sparkle are sacrificed. In "Clair de Lune" by Debussy, the delicate high notes of the piano lack the ethereal quality that they possess on more extended IEMs.

Staging:

The soundstage is respectable for an IEM, offering a good sense of width. Depth and height are average, resulting in a presentation that is more intimate than expansive. In "Baba O'Riley" by The Who, the instruments are positioned across the soundstage with discernible separation.

Layering and Separation:

The 320 excels in layering and separation, allowing individual instruments to be easily discerned even in complex musical passages. "Paranoid Android" by Radiohead, with its intricate arrangement, serves as a testament to this capability.

Timbre:

The timbre of instruments is generally natural and realistic, although some instruments lack the last bit of bite and texture due to the smooth treble presentation.

Detail Retrieval:

While the 320 retrieves a good amount of detail, it doesn't quite reach the level of resolution found in some top-tier IEMs. Subtle nuances in the music are sometimes lost, preventing the listener from fully immersing themselves in the recording. In "Tears in Heaven" by Eric Clapton, the subtle nuances of his guitar work are not as readily apparent as on more resolving IEMs.

EPZ TP20 Pro Sound analysis:

• Tonality: The TP20 Pro aims for a neutral sound signature, and it largely achieves that. It doesn't seem to add any noticeable coloration, allowing the true character of IEMs to shine through. However, I occasionally find myself wanting a bit more warmth or richness in the sound.
• Detail Retrieval: Detail retrieval is definitely a highlight for the price they come in. You can hear subtle nuances in music. While this analytical quality is generally a good thing, I can see how some might find it a bit too revealing, potentially highlighting imperfections in recordings.
• Soundstage: The soundstage is wider than most dongle DACs in this price range. It's not a massive difference, but it definitely adds a sense of space and airiness to the music. I do wish it had a bit more depth, though.
• Dynamics: The dynamic range is generally good, but I've noticed some compression at higher volumes. This can sometimes make the music feel a bit less impactful.
• Driveability: The TP20 Pro had no problem driving EPZ 320s. They sound clear and powerful at all volume levels. I haven't tested it with any demanding headphones, so I can't comment on its limitations in that regard.

Conclusion:

The EPZ 320 is an IEM that excels in its midrange presentation and overall musicality. While the sub-bass lacks impact, the lower treble is somewhat subdued, and detail retrieval is not class-leading, the 320's strengths lie in its beautiful midrange, comfortable fit, and non-fatiguing sound signature. If you prioritize a natural and engaging listening experience, the 320 is well worth considering.