In October of 2022 I introduced the KZ ZS10 Pro X to the Head-Fi world. Since then the review has garnered just under 38,000 views.
We now have a Pro 2 model……….time to get excited!
^^^^^KZ ZS10 PRO X above^^^^^
Look here they still sell the $39.00 Pro X
https://www.linsoul.com/products/kz-zs10-pro-x
KZ ZS10 PRO X
UPGRADED 1DD+4BA HYBRID DRIVER HIFI IEM
https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/the-new-kz-zs10-pro-x-universal-iem.26128/
To compare the KZ ZS10 PRO X and this new KZ ZS10 PRO 2. They are just two very different IEMs, and the PRO 2 goes and adds a boatload of DIP-Switches and stock has way more itemization into the treble. Really this is going to be an incredible review. Sure it has a little BA timbre, but the bass is so exciting and the way high up small treble details make the PRO 2 a whole different beast. Man-o-man am I excited. This IEM needs justice served. I mean really for the price most folks should have it in their collection. I don’t care what KZ history is, they have bribed me with this new sound quality!
$54.99 without mic, $55.99 with microphone.
https://www.linsoul.com/products/kz-zs10-pro2
So let’s start out by simply telling a tale of first impressions and a few weeks of usage. Number one, yes these seemed to smooth out with a few days of burn-in. So even if you believe in burn-in or not, there is nothing wrong with giving the PRO 2 a few days of run-in. What burn-in did was add a more overall cohesive sound, smooth-out the highs a little and add bass smoothness. I went through a stage where I questioned KZ’s ideas as to tuning as a departure from the immensely impressive (and popular) KZ ZS10 PRO X. They (the KZ company) simply added clarity in the form of driver tuning offering a set-back lower midrange and a push in both vocals and treble itemization. The resulting actions are an IEM which demands slightly less volume of comfortable listening, to where the KZ ZS10 PRO X allowed for a few clicks more volume. Sure there is a tad off timbre due to BA drivers, which the old KZ ZS10 PRO X went and subdued due to tuning. But it is safe to say KZ went for it this time, offering a tune very different from the place the KZ ZS10 PRO X went to, a brighter and even more detailed place.
Comparisons:
Here it is a little different that my first ideas were to simply compare the KZ ZS10 PRO X to the KZ ZS10 PRO 2. Yet I was able to do that (earlier) with a few sentences instead. Really that would be almost boring and getting a few different price-points involved, and a few new signatures involved would give more (excitement) to write about!
Side-by-sides:
Left to right:
Left to right:
Top row: INTUAURA Splendor Il, KZ ZS 10 PRO 2
Bottom row: ZiiGaat x Fresh Reviews Arete, TWISTURA-D-Major
Testing methods:
To simplify things I’m using the WM1A with the same long wide-bore silicone ear-tips. The cable will be the 4.4mm SIMGOT AUDIO LC7 Modular Cable System. Both the USB TypeC extra DSP providers, one in 4.4mm for the INTUAURA Splendor Il, and the smaller 3.5mm DSP for the TWISTURA-D-Major will not be used. As sure in some ways they both activate a special personality for both IEMs, yet people also prefer the IEMs amped in other ways. Funny too, as far as DSP response they do opposite duties………as the TWISTURA-D-Major does a brighter stage expansion, and the INTUAURA Splendor Il actually decreases stage and adds bass definition.
1) INTUAURA Splendor II $259.00 - Single Full-range DD IEM
2) KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 $54.99 - 1DD x 4BA IEM
3) ZiiGaat x Fresh Reviews Arete $249.00 - 1DD x 4BA IEM
4) TWISTURA D-Major $49.00 - Single Full-range DD IEM
So it may be confusing due to various price-points being used? Yet if you look closely two are Hybrids of each representing different prices, the ZiiGaat with the name brand Knowles BAs. And two are DD in which one is $210 more money. So not only do I need to review each product here, I need to go over the good points and bad points, and describe each individual demeanors accordingly. As it just so happens the usefulness of these 4 comparisons allows for (somewhat of) a copy and paste across each of their respective reviews. And sure each came at the same time, but just their existence confirms and delineates each of their strengths and weaknesses. As we all know money is not always the determination of sound quality. In fact up to this point I have spent three weeks getting to know each one and have my own opinions about them.
The INTUAURA Splendor II $259.00 - Single Full-range DD IEM:
In relation to the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 really much of this tuning is very close to the same, using memory only. Yet upon closer side-by-side inspection we find the Splendor II to offer a smoother vocal response than the KZ. It is that forwardness that is new for the KZ manufacturer. Yet here and with this song with this cable and with this DAP I’m not hearing any off KZ timbre in the vocals, only bright, yet a smooth style of success. Sure the KZ ZS10 PRO 2 has a recessive lower midrange compared to the Splendor II, which seems to add to this KZ vocal luster? Of course here we are seeing the classic comparison from Hybrid v Single Full-range. And yes, the Splendor II has a larger stage, and the lower midrange and bass help emphasize that soundstage stage going on. Where the KZ is running with a typical wide-midrange stage showing the width holding slightly thinner density and weight. Yet there are differences, it is the challenge of the Splendor II diminishing returns for the money here. And what is crazy is the Splendor II has that added DSP, yet even with-out it we are ahead of what the KZ is trying to do bass wise. It is just part of this whole KZ tune, that the bass is there and nice, but part of why the KZ sounds so detailed is due to the hold-back of lower frequencies. That even with songs like below, which showcase both low end and vocals, we are witnessing the lows take a backseat to these profound vocal activities.
Timestamps refer to original song, not the Youtube video.
Dead Can Dance
Anastasis
All In Good Time
44.1kHz - 24 bit
Intermission:
Before I go any further, I just wanted to point out that truly the KZ ZS10 PRO 2 is fairly balanced and filled in as far as frequency goes. That during comparisons it is often the case where you forget you are reading about the small differences between the two IEMs, and so there can be perceived this right or wrong, but it really is not so extreme, just differences in correctness only to a point.
The ZiiGaat x Fresh Reviews Arete $249.00 1DD x 4BA IEM:
Here the very first thing you notice is the Arete has more bass. And the intriguing thing is the Arete is going about with a smoother vocal detail spread out (a little more) but able to gain this vocal illumination just from Arete stage size. So imagine the KZ as a little more reserved in stage size, and due to that size holding a slightly brighter vocal out front, where a smoother broader Arete has those vocals coming from a larger image size inside the stage and that size allows for clearer examination.
Switching to guitar instrumentals, I thought the Knowles Arete BAs would jump way, way ahead of our less expensive KZ, yet the only thing was missing was the Arete was more large in stature of stage drama, where maybe there was a little off timbre with the KZ, but due to being of thinner consequence, the guitar was still drawn out into contrasts in the stage, just not as big or involving. All and all the KZ has its place, as it is not the giant killer as maybe first impressions lead a person to believe, yet at the same time, there is a lot of IEM here in the under $55.00 realm.
TWISTURA D-Major $49.00 - Single Full-range DD IEM:
Finally we come to the D-Major IEM. Where really the D-Major is the single IEM that tune can in many ways be comparable to the brightness of the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2. But due to a single full-range build this brightness comes across holding slightly less metallic tone. Where both the TWISTURA D-Major and KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 are on the thinner side of male vocals, female vocals are emphasized. And between the two the D-Major has even thinner male vocals and less low end. And while I’m still exploring the D-Major, that high pinna gain does give the female vocal ability a stand-out drama in playback, so far it seems the DSP add-on goes one step further to even accentuate those vocals one step more? While at times the D-Major can offer an off timbre in this vocal section, even coming off as forced, it really depended on the sources I used. And amazingly compared to the TWISTURA D-Major, the PRO 2 held even slightly more reliability to source, while still changing its stance, never quite going to the place found with the D-Major.
Cable:
The included cable was OK, but due to wanting to try 4.4mm cables I used another brand's GD849. Meaning one or two less notches are not needed to be utilized for enjoyable sound. And while the GD849 does not cure the thinness issues, it makes them 80% more in the perfect direction here. Just how instruments emerge into the stage, holding better separation and even reverberations!
The GD849 Cable:
The G in this cable description is representative of Gold. The substance that adds weight, note weight in playback. As such we are now basking in a thicker realm of playback, that while you can still hear the basic demeanor of the PRO 2, we are gifted with an extenuation of weight and clarity……to which finding the results the very best yet.
Packaging:
A set of nice foams in included!
Construction:
Weighting in at just 6 grams each the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 finds itself remarkably comfortable.The form is truly on the smaller side of medium. Can you say vented! Yes the most apparent thing is the use of large vents which are in strict contrast to the original KZ ZS 10 PRO X design. Such an idea is to generate air space and reduce bass vibrations maybe? The nozzles are just ever so slightly short, though I have a choice in ear-tips and are not forced to use longer tips. In addition there is one rear vent on the back.
Old PRO X model:
Conclusion:
Look, the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 at $54.99 is a large amount of sonic fun for the money. Sure you may have to drop your listening volume by a notch or two or three to deal with the slight brightness. Yet at the same time we are here for that exact brightness…….in that it used to be what (details) were left out of the under $100 IEM crowd. Heck the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 has upper echelon details normally not seen even under $300.00. That is the very reason why they are the talk of the town at this very moment on Head-Fi. That KZ has used their buying power and tuning skills to make a unique and fun IEM, way different from anything I ever heard from Knowledge Zenith. The PRO 2 is far from perfect, but the fun happens once you realize that this is $54.99 trying to be a TOTL Flagship product. The truth is the timbre is not at all that bad, not as bad as you think, and actually fairly spot-on in my book, and that is the crazy part. In the weeks I had the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 I have had conflicting options. Where at first I was amazed at just KZ’s technicalities put into this model, as it was the very first I have heard of KZ going into the high trebles and sculpturing details for all to hear. I actually thought they had really done it………..
Later I came down to Earth and maybe still thought the KZ ZS10 PRO X was still the safe purchase and this PRO 2 more experimental? Yet then I tried new cables after burn-in and with much of my music I was OK, actually better than OK, I was styling with a sound basically unheard of for this level of money. And to conclude this review, I still feel that way, yet once in a while I need to lower the volume just because the total brightness is often still there and noticeable. But I can still see the masses buying this and learning the ropes that will hoist you up……up to that level of amazement, especially with the treble details, that and really how the whole signature is done. That yes, it is slightly less bass intense than many, but that sub-bass is still gloriously there and unstoppable. With this subtle V enhanced, midrange energy and treble energy resulting in those 2 features taking noticeability.
$54.99 without microphone, $55.99 with microphone
https://www.linsoul.com/products/kz-zs10-pro2
Disclaimer:
I would like to thank Kareena from Linsoul for the love and the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 review sample.
Disclaimer:
These are one person's ideas and concepts, your results may vary.
Disclaimer:
DIP-Switches set at 123 on and #4 off.
Linsoul website: https://www.linsoul.com/
Linsoul Aliexpress Store: https://ddaudio.aliexpress.com/store/2894006
Linsoul USA Amazon Store link: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=merchant-items&me=A267P2DT104U3C
Equipment Used:
Sony WM1A Walkman DAP MrWalkman Firmware 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm
Samsung Phone 3.5mm
HiBy R3 II DAP 4.4mm balanced
ifi hip dac DAC/Amplifier 4.4mm balanced
KZ ZS10 Pro 2
Crafted for Seasoned Audiophiles
The Second-Generation 10-Driver Professional DD & BA Hybrid IEM
We now have a Pro 2 model……….time to get excited!
^^^^^KZ ZS10 PRO X above^^^^^
Look here they still sell the $39.00 Pro X
https://www.linsoul.com/products/kz-zs10-pro-x
KZ ZS10 PRO X
UPGRADED 1DD+4BA HYBRID DRIVER HIFI IEM
- 10mm Dynamic Driver+4 Custom Balanced Armatures
- Classic Alloy Faceplate+Resin Shell
- Enhanced Detachable 0.75mm 2Pin Connector
- Ergonomic Shape, Wide Compatibility
https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/the-new-kz-zs10-pro-x-universal-iem.26128/
To compare the KZ ZS10 PRO X and this new KZ ZS10 PRO 2. They are just two very different IEMs, and the PRO 2 goes and adds a boatload of DIP-Switches and stock has way more itemization into the treble. Really this is going to be an incredible review. Sure it has a little BA timbre, but the bass is so exciting and the way high up small treble details make the PRO 2 a whole different beast. Man-o-man am I excited. This IEM needs justice served. I mean really for the price most folks should have it in their collection. I don’t care what KZ history is, they have bribed me with this new sound quality!
$54.99 without mic, $55.99 with microphone.
https://www.linsoul.com/products/kz-zs10-pro2
So let’s start out by simply telling a tale of first impressions and a few weeks of usage. Number one, yes these seemed to smooth out with a few days of burn-in. So even if you believe in burn-in or not, there is nothing wrong with giving the PRO 2 a few days of run-in. What burn-in did was add a more overall cohesive sound, smooth-out the highs a little and add bass smoothness. I went through a stage where I questioned KZ’s ideas as to tuning as a departure from the immensely impressive (and popular) KZ ZS10 PRO X. They (the KZ company) simply added clarity in the form of driver tuning offering a set-back lower midrange and a push in both vocals and treble itemization. The resulting actions are an IEM which demands slightly less volume of comfortable listening, to where the KZ ZS10 PRO X allowed for a few clicks more volume. Sure there is a tad off timbre due to BA drivers, which the old KZ ZS10 PRO X went and subdued due to tuning. But it is safe to say KZ went for it this time, offering a tune very different from the place the KZ ZS10 PRO X went to, a brighter and even more detailed place.
Comparisons:
Here it is a little different that my first ideas were to simply compare the KZ ZS10 PRO X to the KZ ZS10 PRO 2. Yet I was able to do that (earlier) with a few sentences instead. Really that would be almost boring and getting a few different price-points involved, and a few new signatures involved would give more (excitement) to write about!
Side-by-sides:
Left to right:
Left to right:
Top row: INTUAURA Splendor Il, KZ ZS 10 PRO 2
Bottom row: ZiiGaat x Fresh Reviews Arete, TWISTURA-D-Major
Testing methods:
To simplify things I’m using the WM1A with the same long wide-bore silicone ear-tips. The cable will be the 4.4mm SIMGOT AUDIO LC7 Modular Cable System. Both the USB TypeC extra DSP providers, one in 4.4mm for the INTUAURA Splendor Il, and the smaller 3.5mm DSP for the TWISTURA-D-Major will not be used. As sure in some ways they both activate a special personality for both IEMs, yet people also prefer the IEMs amped in other ways. Funny too, as far as DSP response they do opposite duties………as the TWISTURA-D-Major does a brighter stage expansion, and the INTUAURA Splendor Il actually decreases stage and adds bass definition.
1) INTUAURA Splendor II $259.00 - Single Full-range DD IEM
2) KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 $54.99 - 1DD x 4BA IEM
3) ZiiGaat x Fresh Reviews Arete $249.00 - 1DD x 4BA IEM
4) TWISTURA D-Major $49.00 - Single Full-range DD IEM
So it may be confusing due to various price-points being used? Yet if you look closely two are Hybrids of each representing different prices, the ZiiGaat with the name brand Knowles BAs. And two are DD in which one is $210 more money. So not only do I need to review each product here, I need to go over the good points and bad points, and describe each individual demeanors accordingly. As it just so happens the usefulness of these 4 comparisons allows for (somewhat of) a copy and paste across each of their respective reviews. And sure each came at the same time, but just their existence confirms and delineates each of their strengths and weaknesses. As we all know money is not always the determination of sound quality. In fact up to this point I have spent three weeks getting to know each one and have my own opinions about them.
The INTUAURA Splendor II $259.00 - Single Full-range DD IEM:
In relation to the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 really much of this tuning is very close to the same, using memory only. Yet upon closer side-by-side inspection we find the Splendor II to offer a smoother vocal response than the KZ. It is that forwardness that is new for the KZ manufacturer. Yet here and with this song with this cable and with this DAP I’m not hearing any off KZ timbre in the vocals, only bright, yet a smooth style of success. Sure the KZ ZS10 PRO 2 has a recessive lower midrange compared to the Splendor II, which seems to add to this KZ vocal luster? Of course here we are seeing the classic comparison from Hybrid v Single Full-range. And yes, the Splendor II has a larger stage, and the lower midrange and bass help emphasize that soundstage stage going on. Where the KZ is running with a typical wide-midrange stage showing the width holding slightly thinner density and weight. Yet there are differences, it is the challenge of the Splendor II diminishing returns for the money here. And what is crazy is the Splendor II has that added DSP, yet even with-out it we are ahead of what the KZ is trying to do bass wise. It is just part of this whole KZ tune, that the bass is there and nice, but part of why the KZ sounds so detailed is due to the hold-back of lower frequencies. That even with songs like below, which showcase both low end and vocals, we are witnessing the lows take a backseat to these profound vocal activities.
Timestamps refer to original song, not the Youtube video.
Dead Can Dance
Anastasis
All In Good Time
44.1kHz - 24 bit
Intermission:
Before I go any further, I just wanted to point out that truly the KZ ZS10 PRO 2 is fairly balanced and filled in as far as frequency goes. That during comparisons it is often the case where you forget you are reading about the small differences between the two IEMs, and so there can be perceived this right or wrong, but it really is not so extreme, just differences in correctness only to a point.
The ZiiGaat x Fresh Reviews Arete $249.00 1DD x 4BA IEM:
Here the very first thing you notice is the Arete has more bass. And the intriguing thing is the Arete is going about with a smoother vocal detail spread out (a little more) but able to gain this vocal illumination just from Arete stage size. So imagine the KZ as a little more reserved in stage size, and due to that size holding a slightly brighter vocal out front, where a smoother broader Arete has those vocals coming from a larger image size inside the stage and that size allows for clearer examination.
Switching to guitar instrumentals, I thought the Knowles Arete BAs would jump way, way ahead of our less expensive KZ, yet the only thing was missing was the Arete was more large in stature of stage drama, where maybe there was a little off timbre with the KZ, but due to being of thinner consequence, the guitar was still drawn out into contrasts in the stage, just not as big or involving. All and all the KZ has its place, as it is not the giant killer as maybe first impressions lead a person to believe, yet at the same time, there is a lot of IEM here in the under $55.00 realm.
TWISTURA D-Major $49.00 - Single Full-range DD IEM:
Finally we come to the D-Major IEM. Where really the D-Major is the single IEM that tune can in many ways be comparable to the brightness of the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2. But due to a single full-range build this brightness comes across holding slightly less metallic tone. Where both the TWISTURA D-Major and KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 are on the thinner side of male vocals, female vocals are emphasized. And between the two the D-Major has even thinner male vocals and less low end. And while I’m still exploring the D-Major, that high pinna gain does give the female vocal ability a stand-out drama in playback, so far it seems the DSP add-on goes one step further to even accentuate those vocals one step more? While at times the D-Major can offer an off timbre in this vocal section, even coming off as forced, it really depended on the sources I used. And amazingly compared to the TWISTURA D-Major, the PRO 2 held even slightly more reliability to source, while still changing its stance, never quite going to the place found with the D-Major.
Cable:
The included cable was OK, but due to wanting to try 4.4mm cables I used another brand's GD849. Meaning one or two less notches are not needed to be utilized for enjoyable sound. And while the GD849 does not cure the thinness issues, it makes them 80% more in the perfect direction here. Just how instruments emerge into the stage, holding better separation and even reverberations!
The GD849 Cable:
The G in this cable description is representative of Gold. The substance that adds weight, note weight in playback. As such we are now basking in a thicker realm of playback, that while you can still hear the basic demeanor of the PRO 2, we are gifted with an extenuation of weight and clarity……to which finding the results the very best yet.
Packaging:
A set of nice foams in included!
Construction:
Weighting in at just 6 grams each the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 finds itself remarkably comfortable.The form is truly on the smaller side of medium. Can you say vented! Yes the most apparent thing is the use of large vents which are in strict contrast to the original KZ ZS 10 PRO X design. Such an idea is to generate air space and reduce bass vibrations maybe? The nozzles are just ever so slightly short, though I have a choice in ear-tips and are not forced to use longer tips. In addition there is one rear vent on the back.
Old PRO X model:
Conclusion:
Look, the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 at $54.99 is a large amount of sonic fun for the money. Sure you may have to drop your listening volume by a notch or two or three to deal with the slight brightness. Yet at the same time we are here for that exact brightness…….in that it used to be what (details) were left out of the under $100 IEM crowd. Heck the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 has upper echelon details normally not seen even under $300.00. That is the very reason why they are the talk of the town at this very moment on Head-Fi. That KZ has used their buying power and tuning skills to make a unique and fun IEM, way different from anything I ever heard from Knowledge Zenith. The PRO 2 is far from perfect, but the fun happens once you realize that this is $54.99 trying to be a TOTL Flagship product. The truth is the timbre is not at all that bad, not as bad as you think, and actually fairly spot-on in my book, and that is the crazy part. In the weeks I had the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 I have had conflicting options. Where at first I was amazed at just KZ’s technicalities put into this model, as it was the very first I have heard of KZ going into the high trebles and sculpturing details for all to hear. I actually thought they had really done it………..
Later I came down to Earth and maybe still thought the KZ ZS10 PRO X was still the safe purchase and this PRO 2 more experimental? Yet then I tried new cables after burn-in and with much of my music I was OK, actually better than OK, I was styling with a sound basically unheard of for this level of money. And to conclude this review, I still feel that way, yet once in a while I need to lower the volume just because the total brightness is often still there and noticeable. But I can still see the masses buying this and learning the ropes that will hoist you up……up to that level of amazement, especially with the treble details, that and really how the whole signature is done. That yes, it is slightly less bass intense than many, but that sub-bass is still gloriously there and unstoppable. With this subtle V enhanced, midrange energy and treble energy resulting in those 2 features taking noticeability.
$54.99 without microphone, $55.99 with microphone
https://www.linsoul.com/products/kz-zs10-pro2
Disclaimer:
I would like to thank Kareena from Linsoul for the love and the KZ ZS 10 PRO 2 review sample.
Disclaimer:
These are one person's ideas and concepts, your results may vary.
Disclaimer:
DIP-Switches set at 123 on and #4 off.
Linsoul website: https://www.linsoul.com/
Linsoul Aliexpress Store: https://ddaudio.aliexpress.com/store/2894006
Linsoul USA Amazon Store link: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=merchant-items&me=A267P2DT104U3C
Equipment Used:
Sony WM1A Walkman DAP MrWalkman Firmware 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm
Samsung Phone 3.5mm
HiBy R3 II DAP 4.4mm balanced
ifi hip dac DAC/Amplifier 4.4mm balanced
KZ ZS10 Pro 2
Crafted for Seasoned Audiophiles
The Second-Generation 10-Driver Professional DD & BA Hybrid IEM
- 10mm Internal Magnetic Dynamic Driver
- Dual 31736 Balanced Armature Drivers (x2)
- Precise 3-Way Crossover Technology
- 4-Level Custom Tuning Switch
- Exceptional Acoustic FR Curve
- Classic Design Aesthetics
A perfect interpretation of how the Pro 2 is. I could not have said it better.