CCA CA16 Pro

Foreword

• This unit was sent to me by KZ Official https://www.kztws.com for review purposes.
• Out of the box I don’t like it at all. Super BASSY!. To the point that it left my ears buzzing even after I took it off. The Mid-Bass overwhelms everything and it is practically all over the place. These were with stock silicone tips (which were notoriously thin and soft, and with very wide bore size)
• Notably, it does get a bit more civil by swapping in my own favorite tips. CA16Pro works best with small bore tips or silicone/foam hybrids like Symbio/Misodiko MIX460.
• Burn in observation, Bass was super bloaty from the get go up until after 20 hours. After initial listening sessions for about 1 hour I placed it aside to burn in with Synthetic Pink noise on loop play. After 20 hours I checked and it was audibly more controlled and not as annoying. Eventually Bass gets really polished after 60 hours mark and remained as it is until now.
• I have spent over 100 hours on this unit. Had I chose to review it as it is, CA16 Pro probably will get no more than 3/5 rating from me. But I don’t intend to write my impressions as a reviewer, I want to share my experience with it as a regular user. I spent around 4-6 hours every day on my CA16 Pro, plugged it back to burn in cycle of Pink Noise whenever not used. So it has over 100 hours with 40% of actual usage time
• The entirety of my impressions are based on using my CA16 Pro with Misodiko MIX460 Tips and NICEHCK Pure Silver 4N LitzPS-Pro Cable – maximizing the sonic capabilities possible.

The Build
CCA CA16 Pro boasted 8 drivers per side with 7 Balanced Armatures and 1 Dynamic Driver. This is about the most drivers in an IEM I have ever had the opportunity to listen to. The general build is commendably clean with larger than average resin shells. Despite being the largest IEM I have ever used so far, I am happy that the comfort and fitment is great.

There seems to be two small vents on the outer shells each side, while not actually functional sonically, it does help to instill sense of airiness to the overall presentation. Some IEMs does suffer from boxed in sensation due to lack of ventilation.

Dynamics, Tonality and Timbre
CA16 Pro is a very vibrant and euphonic unit. Very strong V sound curve with huge emphasis on the lower frequencies and deeply extended upper range. Which also means the Mids get spaced back quite a bit.

Tonality wise, CA16 Pro is actually very pleasing with clean and clear analogue, organic sound with no hint of being metallic. It is notably warmer if regarded from Trebleheads perspective. Had the frequencies are to be a bit more less aggressive on both ends of the frequencies, I would even call this CA16 Pro being very well balanced. But the Bass dominance just too big to ignore.

Mids
Being a hardcore V unit, notably CA16 Pro Mids are stepped back a couple steps with overall staging and presentation, however with adjustment via tips and cable pairing (better control of Bass), Mids now a lot more audible and not as recessed as it would in stock form (pre burn-in). What I like the most was that there’s rich texture and depth to the Mids despite being less emphasized in the overall theme of the sound curve. Dynamic range is exceedingly well extended from one end to the other, with deep Treble extensions and equally deep Sub-Bass elevation on the opposite end.

Vocals presentation seems to be determined largely as well on the nature of the original mastering. So it depends on how intimate or spaced back it is with the source. As noted with many other great IEMs/Headphones, this signify Mids transparency to project the vocals as how it was intended, albeit CA16 Pro being still decidedly reserved due to pronounced highs and lows. What’s most important, there’s great clarity and cleanliness to Mids despite being held back, no veil or fuzziness interference

Treble
CA16 Pro will not satisfy a Heart Mirror, Beyerdynamic DT Series, Etymotic or Grado Trebleheads, that’s how I perceive it. In general Treble is well controlled without any overcooking of splashy decays or shimmery sparkle overtones.

But it does offer great micro details and textures which are subtly nuanced and amply extended. There’s no chance of getting Treble sibilance especially when keeping the volume loudness sensible. So this may not work well for those so accustomed to listening at higher loudness. With higher volume, Treble can get a bit edgy and mildly offensive. The key to enjoying CA16 Pro Treble is to keep it sensible with volume levels. There’s great amount of Treble sparkle still with just the right amount of airy decays that remained believable and realistic.

Bass
Now this is the business for CA16 Pro. As noted earlier with a healthy amount of burn in and tips rolling, I am hearing some of the best Bass heavy presentation from any IEM that I have ever tried. Even after the tweaks it is still a Bass heavy IEM, in a pleasant manner. Me being a DF Flathead fanatic, I am glad that I no longer felt annoyed by the overpowering Bass performances. In the current state of my tweaked CA16 Pro, it has some of the best Sub-Bass extensions I have ever heard – bested only by the likes of Shure KSE1500 and FOSTEX T40RP MK3. Mid-Bass remained strong and commanding but no longer overpowering everything in its path. There’s great seismic sensations and rumble especially when used to listen to Electronic or Metal music. Bass also seems to exhibit great texture and depth, but perhaps not as detailed as how I prefer it to be. But then this is purely nitpicking on my end

Technicalities
CA16 Pro multiple drivers does great with presenting Macro and Micro details. Especially Micro Details. I am hearing lots of subtle Micro details being retrieved especially from the upper frequencies (High-Mids to Extended Treble region). This was apparent when used to listening to highly complex composition of Jazz songs from the likes of Sinne Eeg and Diana Krall, where the details of instruments are often very subtle and can be outright veiled on less than competent listening devices. Even with some great recoding of Metal and Rock songs, there’s lots of details observed (Russian Circles, Toundra, God is an Astronaut etc.).

Soundstage and imaging are great as well. There’s good sense of width, space and depth, perhaps not as tall but then this also depends on the signature of the sources. Spatial imaging are great with holographic projection and cleanly separated lines. Allowing different instruments to flow in their own trajectory uninterrupted.

Speed is quite commendable, considering that there’s 8 drivers each side that need to remain coherent to each other, I would say the speed and resolution deserve praising. Of course I have heard better speed performances from lesser driver count or even single driver setup, but CA16 Pro has the agility to handle complex dynamic transients without getting compressed or congested. The drivers were able to respond admirably fast to complex or outright speedy passages.

Last but not least, for a very bassy unit the CA16 Pro is surprisingly very transparent. There’s no sense of veil or fuzziness that I observed especially when used to play high quality source feeds.

Scalability
Now this is very interesting. CCA CA16 Pro is probably one of the very rare IEM that are surprisingly already very great sounding with weak powered sources. I have an arsenal of DAC/Amp Dongles with me ranging from 1 to over 4 Vrms of power. And yet the CA16 Pro is already sounding so amazingly great with my 0.75 Vrms phone out of Xiaomi Redmi 10.

In fact I will say this and it will be sort of shocking (to me at least), CA16 Pro are better served with limiting it to no more than 1 Vrms of power. With my 2 Vrms Ovidius B1, it was outright noisy and edgy, similar results with VE Odyssey HD (which is not as terrible as B1 due to being 1 Vrms).

Notably, CA16 Pro also seems to exhibit better synergy with ESS Sabre based DACs, I get some great results from Questyle M12 at low gain (under 2 Vrms). So does with Abigail. But then when I compared Abigail vs Redmi 10 output, I honestly wasn’t able to pick up any obvious sound difference. So as a matter of saying, CA16 Pro is super-efficient, all it need is a clean feed that does not necessarily be powerful. But this also mean that CA16 Pro does not upscale with more power, not like TForce Yuan Li or TIN HiFi P1 Plus which scale up exceedingly well the more power being fed to them.




Verdict
All in all, CCA CA16 Pro is one hell of great sounding V curved IEM. Despite me hating it initially, with the tweaks done and a healthy amount of aging, I am totally digging the fun and articulate sound offered by this CA16 Pro. I can see this being very enjoyable to Bassheads (pairing it with big bore tips).

I like the Spartan simple build, the stock cable is actually very decent but could benefit a lot from cable upgrades especially Litz type OCC or High Purity Silver. Perhaps what I would like to see improved is the inclusion of more tips. The stock tips selection are just outright terrible. CCA need to include wide/narrow bore type and also foam options too. Not everyone has similar sonic responses to specific tips variant. In fact, the wrong tips can totally ruin an IEM experience.

In the end, what impressed me the most is how easily adaptable this CA16 Pro is to less than powerful sources. Being able to enjoy it at max potential even with my phone directly is a huge plus in my opinion.

Summary: First KZ with almost flawless V-shaped sound signature, very good separation, music layers are well defined, mature treble tuning (very detailed while avoiding harshness), energetic and fun, can be sterile depending on the track, bass lacks texture but is tight and deep. Makes you focus on the attack and decay of instruments.

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Disclaimer

• I like to thank KZ for providing me a review unit of the CCA CA16 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 formatted version of my reviews : XerusKun Archives

Preliminary
I've used the CA16 Pro for 1 week, played various tracks ranging from rock to bossa nova. Since the stock tips didn't fit me well, I'm using a Sony EPX11 medium tips in my review with the stock cable. My main source/player will be the Avani (ALC5686 DAC). Specific sound changes in the source and tips will be listed in the Mods section.

My Target Sound Signature
I like IEMs with brightish neutral to Harmanish tuning to them. 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 AL5686)
• Samsung Galaxy Note 9
• Generic Dell Laptop

Thy Frequency Spectrum

This is my 5th KZ/CCA iem, and I didn't expect this sound from a KZ IEM at all; I mean, KZ ZEX also surprises me, but this is a different scenario; it's their usual V-shaped, but the tuning is pleasant and very detailed, mid-bass is as minimal as it can be, and the sound is big and commanding. It's even trading blows with my favorite IEM (Heart Mirror). Moreover, it's playing my Toho Bossa Nova tracks like a CHAD (this is very hard to accomplish with V-shaped IEMs). Overall, I'm very impressed with what KZ /CCA did to this IEM.

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Bass: 5/5
Wow, the bass isn't as enthusiastic as my C12s and ZEX, but it is tight and deep. Sub-bass has more quantity than mid-bass, and mid-bass bleed is kept at minimal. Punch is quite visceral, but it will not fatigue you like other KZ sets; the bass is quite enjoyable, to be honest. It also stays on the back of my head instead of presenting itself forward and bloating the frequency spectrum. The only gripe I have with the bass is that it lacks texture. It's somehow smoothed out.

Comment: I just noticed that in some tracks (like An Ordinary Day by ShibayanRecords), the sub-bass will rumble quite hard. It does not bloat the other frequencies (still very detailed), but its quantity is too much for me.

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Midrange: 4.25/5
Recessed, male vocals occasionally sound thin, while female vocals are a delight to listen to. Instruments fundamentals are still well defined and detailed, but I kind of want more weight to them. Vocals lacks emotion but enjoyable due to the details it provides.

Comment: The mid-range presentation is quite dry in some tracks; might not suit vocal lovers.

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Treble: 5/5
My favorite part of this IEM. Very detailed while avoiding harshness, has enough air to avoid congestion. Instruments harmonics pop out subtlety in that vast and deep sound stage. Harshness may occur at higher volumes (around 70% up) but is very pleasant with lower volumes. The treble presentation kind of reminds me of my TC200 earbuds, sparkly, full of clarity and detail.

Technicalities

• The coherency between the 6 BA drivers and 1 DD is quite okay; you can still detect where the dynamic driver ends (around 350 Hz) but is not that catastrophic like the C12s and ZSN Pro.
• Soundstage is quite impressive; it's wide and deep like you're in a concert; it's a very holographic-like experience.
• Separation is also excellent. Instruments have their own space in that wide soundstage without mushing each other. You can also notice the music's layers (how one instrument distances itself to another instrument/vocal).
• Driver speed is also speedy (yeah, of course, it's BA); it makes you focus on the attack and decay of specific instruments like guitars.
• Imaging is above average; you can locate where the instruments are coming from within the holographic stage; it's not as laser-precise as Heart Mirror but still quite good.

Naturalness
The sound is quite far from being natural. However, the coloration it provides is quite enjoyable and exciting. It makes you wanna jam/dance with the music. I also think that the tuning of this IEM is more catered to stage monitoring, where every little nuance/detail is much preferred.

Music Analysis
Playlist for the Test Tracks: My Library


1. Daydream by Kenshi Yonezu (Played in Tidal Masters)
[Male Vocals, Staging, Imaging]
The details of the starry night background at the start are fantastic. It does not sound congested or compressed at all. It feels like I'm in a wide soundscape. Kenshi's voice is relatively thin; however, you will be amazed by the staging of the instruments and the singer. It's on point like you're listening to a concert. The bass is quite tight and punchy, and it stays on the back of my head instead of taking the stage from Kenshi. Microdetails are still audible; like at 01:11 forward, the cowbell is still audible even with the bass rumbling as hard as it can.

Replay Rating: Excellent

Comment: This track is quite sad but played dynamically by the CA16 Pro, it makes me wanna bang my head on….lol

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2. Howl at the Moon by Yorushika (Played in Tidal Masters)
[Female Vocals and Bass Response]
This is one of the tracks that shows the real sub-bass quantity of CA16 Pro. The bass in this track is hitting quite hard while remaining clean and tight. It has more rumble than punch. Due to that bass, CA16 Pro makes this track more dynamic and energetic. Moreover, Suis' voice is quite a delight to listen to, it's soo sparkly like my Heart Mirror, and you can still hear minor nuances while she's singing. CA16 Pro also plays this track with enough air that allows instruments harmonics to pop out and avoid sounding too compressed.

Replay Rating: Excellent

Comment: What I observed with CA16 Pro is that the bass quantity changes dynamically with the song. CA16 Pro will give you the BASS with significant quantity and rumble when the song calls for it. But if the song is mid to treble centric, CA16 Pro will provide you with details instead, and the bass will be subdued. I also think that, that phenomenon with the BASS is what makes KZ ZAS too bassy for others.

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3. Escape by Yorushika (Played in Tidal Masters)
[Female Vocals, Stage, Treble Quality, Mids Quality]
The guitar at the start is so detailed that you can hear the guitarist hand plucking the strings. Again, Suis' voice is quite mesmerizing. It's so clear and sparkly, like in Howl at the Moon. The bass in this track is tight and clean and does not take the front stage whatsoever. There's also ample space between the drums, bass guitar, piano, and vocals. It does not sound compressed at all. CA16 Pro layering with this track is fantastic. The cymbal crashes are also good, it has proper death and life. The stage is also wide and deep; it kind of reminds me of my Tingo TC200.

Replay Rating: Excellent


4. Sololique by ShibayanRecords feat Milka (Played in HibyMusic)
[Female Vocals, Treble Quality, and Imaging]
Daamnn, Milka's voice in this track is soooo good. I'm quite in love with how CA16 Pro portrays her voice. The stage in this track is so wide that the flute, drums, and piano have their own distances within the stage, quite unreal. The replay is not that natural compared to Heart Mirror, but dammmnn the sound is dynamic and huugeee. I can't explain even further; it is just that good.

Replay Rating: Superb, Amazing, Damn


5. An Ordinary Day by ShibayanRecords feat witch (Played in HibyMusic)
[Female Vocals, Treble Quality, Bass Quantity and Imaging]

"Oh no, the bass is too much, why KZ? You have that one strike with Sololique whyyyy??"

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Witch's voice is still sparkly and detailed like Suis and Milka, but the bass is too much. You can still hear the other instruments, and the stage is still wide and airy; however, the bass distracts me so much that it makes me lose focus on the different parts of this track.

Replay Rating: Meh


6. Utakata to Mayu by ShibayanRecords feat Fukami Chie (Played in HibyMusic)
[Staging, Imaging, Treble Quality and Female Voice]

"And we're back at it again… Just be consistent with Toho Bossa tracks, damn it!"

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The replay of this track is excellent like Soliloque, Fukami's voice is quite mesmerizing, lovable, and sparkly. The staging is also huge and wide; the flutes, drums, and saxophone are quite euphoric to listen to. The position of the singer Fukami on that wide stage is on point. It's like I'm in the front seat of their concert. That's it; the experience is the same as Soliloque.

Replay Rating: Superb, Amazing, Damn


7. Kakera [Pieces] by Itowokashi (Played in HibyMusic)
[Guitar Timbre, Male Vocals, Treble Quantity and Control]
This track is played with ease and control by CA16 Pro. Even Heart Mirror, CCA C12, and BL—03 can't play this track well due to the chorus' mix of cymbals and electric guitar. The imperfections in the chorus are shown by HM with no mercy, which makes the track quite harsh to listen to. However, CCA CA16 Pro treble control is amazing that it's a treat to listen to this track again. This is the first time I heard microdetails at 00:59 (chime-like sound). I did not notice that chime sound in any IEM I own except CA16 Pro. Male vocals are quite thin, but it's acceptable to me since the overall atmosphere of the track is played wonderfully by the CA16 Pro.

Replay Rating: Excellent


8. Dizzy on the Comedown by Turnover (Played in HibyMusic)
[Timbre, Male Vocals, Mids Quality, Driver Speed]
Quite a euphonic replay by the CA16 Pro. It does not sound like the ZEX, where its replay is warm and nostalgic. It has a different flavor; it plays this track with airiness and clarity. Layers within this track are amazingly portrayed by the CA16 Pro. Male vocals still have that thinness but are offset by how good CA16 Pro stages the instruments. Amazing replay.

Replay Rating: Excellent


9. 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), and would you look at that a KZ/CCA iem that plays this track well. The instruments are not that natural-sounding. However, the energy and dynamics that CA16 Pro provides in this track are excellent. The sub-bass is there and kicking, but it does not congest other parts of the frequency spectrum. The upper range instruments like violin and flute are also quite detailed and harsh less. The staging of instruments is also quite good. Each instrument is portrayed with physicality and depth within the stage. I might be too repetitive to say this, but CA16 Pro layering is quite nice.

Replay Rating: Above Average

IEM Comparison
1. ZEX vs CA16 Pro
Lower mids still goes to ZEX. However, when it comes to technicalities, stage, female vocals, and bass rumble, CA16 Pro wins by default. CA16 Pro wins and smashes ZEX like a mashed potato.

2. Blon BL-03 vs. CA16 Pro
Timbre still goes to BL-03. BL-03 has more natural replay on instruments, while CA16 Pro is much more dynamic and energetic. Technicalities like driver speed, soundstage, and imaging goes to CA16 Pro. Still depends on you on what signature you want; energetic or natural. For me, CA16 Pro wins.

3. KZ EDX vs. CA16 Pro
CA16 Pro is the sigmachad version of EDX. If you want an overall EDX upgrade, go for CA16 Pro, you will not regret it. CCA CA16 Pro wins while babysitting the EDX.

4. Heart Mirror vs. CA16 Pro
I don't really like to compare these two. Let's just say both have different flavors? In my opinion, Heart Mirror still has that fantastic timbre and detail retrieval (you can't really replicate that dynamic driver timbre using BAs). However, CA16 Pro's nuanced bass, engaging sound signature, and wider sound stage are also pulling me in. I can't choose. Tie.

5. Tingo TC200 vs. CA16 Pro
This is quite an experience for me; CA16 Pro is the only IEM that reminds me of my beloved TC200. I really like TC200 staging and treble sparkle, and CA16 Pro takes that formula and adds bass to it, which I had wanted since the beginning when I obtained my TC200. CA16 Pro and TC200 soundstage is kind of the same, with TC200 having more airiness and CA16 Pro revealing more micro details and layers. CA16 Pro wins, an IEM sidegrade for TC200 lovers.

Mods
The stock tips included with CA16 Pro are garbage. Changed them immediately. Even the backup tips are unusable.
1. Sony EPX-11
The best ear tips for me so far, comfortable, make the CA16 Pro more balanced. Adds weight to the lower mids and fixes the treble thinness in some tracks.

2. Spinfits CP145
More stage and more treble. Brighter than Sony EPX-11, the bass is toned down, and the upper treble is a little boosted.

3. KZ Starline Tips (The one included in KZ iems)
Harsh treble, not recommended.

4. Default tips
Does not fit my ear well, uncomfortable.

Cables
I've tried the CCA CA16 Pro using my Nicehck 8 core cable and Heart Mirror Stock cable; however, the differences I've noticed are quite subtle, so if you really want to somehow change the sound of CA16 Pro, just use different ear tips.

Source
CA16 Pro will reveal more layers when connected to a dongle like Avani/CX-31193 or amp. However, CA16 Pro will still sound quite energetic and dynamic even with low-powered sources.

Recommend Tracks/Genres

• Some Toho Bossa Nova Tracks
• Jazz and Blues
• General and Modern Pop
• Rock
• Hip Hop
• Techno
• Live

Shop Links
International Shop Link
PH Shop Link

Thank you again KZ for providing me a review unit.

Overall Rating​

C+ (Relative to My IEMs)
A (Relative to Price)
(Accessories are bare-bone, buyers will expect more for $60)​

Recommended!

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

Addendum

Comfort
The wings on the shell kind of irritate my right ear. I had to take the CA16 Pro for an hour to relieve the stress it causes. Additionally, the stock tips with the combination of the hook of the stock cable, pushes the IEM out of my ear and to oblivion. My experience may differ to yours, but I hope KZ/CCA implements an HM-like or a more straightforward shell instead, cause this shell design is not that universal, in my opinion.

Accessories
Barebone, for this price range, I think people will expect more. My Heart Mirror packaging is better than this IEM packaging, and please the tips, return the old KZ Starline tips.

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

Oi! Mates, welcome to my another IEM review and I hope that you'll enjoying reading my article about the latest product offering from CCA.

As we all know, CCA is a sister company of the overly-popular audio company, Knowledge Zenith simply known as KZ. CCA means Clear Concept Audio, like her sister, they also offer a variety of product ranges on different price point and driver configuration.

CCA send me their current product, The CCA CA16 pro for evaluation. CA16 denotes the number of total of drivers that have implemented on this item, 16 units overall irrespective on type of drivers. In this case CA16 pro have 1 dynamic driver and 7 balanced armatures on each side with a total of 16 drivers.



Like I mentioned about the CCA CA16 pro, It is a multi hybrid driver set-up with one (1) 10mm newly develop dynamic driver that handles the bass and seven (7) "self-developed" balanced armatures drivers for mids to treble response. CCA managed to put up a electronic crossover board on this to configurate every section of audio frequency bands to deliver a less distortion and smoother response.

The shell of CCA CA16 pro is made of polycabonate acrylic with an alloy face plate and its nozzles is made of aluminium to provide solid-built quality and overall sturdiness of the item. Aesthetically-wise, It share similarity form factor with their previous products such as CCA CSN and CCA CA24 which appealingly more on minamalist side which is actually pretty damn good but I have some concern in regards on a choice of putting a font size of the CCA branding on faceplate that gives quite a contrast of overall beauty of the IEM shell, I wish that they make it more smaller. I notice that there are two small (2) vent holes of this unit, one in the helix area and the other is on near at nozzle part, while in the face plate area, there are somewhat ventholes either they are functional or just an aesthetic.



The dimensions of the shells are more in a medium to large size and they are not that hefty in my opinion despite that it has loaded with drivers inside. For its well-thought on its ergonomic design, I can wear then for a long listening session but the fitting is just average as it didn't seal well into my lug holes as I can hear some external noises outside, maybe another third party eartips can mitigate this issue on fitting issue. As for their connectors they still stuck on the 2-pin QDC type connector which are usually implemented on their product eversince its introduction.



Like its sister company, KZ on their packaging choice, they are quite bare-bones as usual that only essentials are included accessories are included like the pair of IEMs, extra white eartips (small and large size), their new improved SPC white cable with 3.5mm termination, a rectangle circle metal plaque (maybe for a display?) and some paperworks such as warranty card and instruction manuals.



Another good thing of CCA CA16 pro is that they scales well on decent power source as they are easy to drive and in my sources such as my LG phones needs only few adjustments of its volume steps around 30% from zero are already loud enough and presents already a lot of dynamics and details.



When it is comes on tonality, This set is more in V-shape sound signature as it has more elevation and emphasis on bass and treble and more flatter midrange ergo its more musical and fun sounding one that can ba a good all-rounder to most genres.

Here are my observation on the sound characteristics of each audio frequency spectrum.


LOWS/BASS:

The bass is impactful, punchy and has a slam that bassheads will enjoy this kind of quantity bass. If you want to know about its transience capability, this one performs fast and has quick decay.

The subbass is the focal point on this low frequency spectrum for it really gives that deep, guttural and rumble sound that it really dig on the deepest reach of its low range span. Midbass has an ample texture on its weight note that it give thumping and pounding on a bass kick, earthy and broad sounding of bass guitar and a satisfying deep of a bass baritone vocals. Overall, the bass performs well as the tuner intended to do so for the satisfaction of bassheads.

MIDS:

Probably one of my most nitpicking on pinpointing its deficiency on its general tuning, the midrange quality on CCA CA16 pro. It is a recessed in my liking as it sounds lean and has lack of weight note to it.

Male vocals performs decently due to the body on midbass that syncs well along with the lower mids that adds up a warmth for deep and strong voice, Female vocals on the other hand are deliver a forward, clean, a sense of openess and a distinct clarity. I just notice some oddities and quirks when it comes to vocal-centric tracks (try on some Alison Krauss' and Diana Krall's) that it gives off some weird unexplainable harmonic resonance.

When it comes to instruments, the timbre quality is more leaning towards bright and some sharpness on it. The crunchy and tinny sound of a guitar, the bright and strident sound of woodwinds such as brass and saxophone, the rattling and shuffling sound on snare drums and lastly, a crisp and clear tone of a piano.


HIGHS/TREBLE:

The treble of CA16 pro is on the bright side with tons of shimmer and definition with a decent extension of airiness that it gives that sparkle that trebleheads might adher on it.


The elevation and peaks on its uppermids adds more energy and resolution but is some tracks I hear some occasional occurrences of sibilance and a noticeable some slight piercing that may cause some ear fatigue due to a metallic and tizzy sound.

Cymbals sounds glistening and has more sizzle that it might give a splashy sound but its still deliver a detailed and shimmer sound. Hi-hats has that distinct crisp and undulating sound that is audible on the mix. If you are type of listener who loves a bright, a crisp definition of harmonics and airy feeling, this will really suits you.

SOUNDSTAGE, IMAGING AND OTHER TECHNICALITIES:

My estimation of its sound field dimensions that it has an above average on width, a satisfying depth and decent height. This one if you want to scale its room size on a place reminds of a medium-size bar or pub.

Imaging on this one performs alright..not the best imaging that I've heard but it performs decently as I can able to locate the placements of instruments and singers. It has an ample spacing and gaps of each placement, as well as the layering is present that it doesn't sound congested and compress. Coherency of drivers performs decently but at least I dont encounter some phasing issues.

At the span of few years of the development of Chi-fi industry, we encounter and experience the evolution of the tuning and the driver technologies. And CCA CA16 pro is one of the products of its evolution, has a tons of drivers inside with more improvements of technology such as electronic crossover capacitors as they try to aim on delivering a high fidelity and all-rounder set at affordable price. Do CCA achieve its objective?

For me its an affirmative, CCA did really done a good job on this one.They manage to deliver an all-rounder set that both casual listeners and audio enthusiast will enjoy it.The pricing of CCA CA16 pro is currently around $65/£49 and it is already available on most current e-commerce sites.




MODEL: CCA CA16 pro
IMPEDANCE: 24Ω
SENSITIVITY: 109dB
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 10Hz - 40KHz
CABLE LENGTH: 1.25M
PIN TYPE: 2-pin QDC type Connector
PLUG TYPE: 3.5mm
DRIVER UNITS: 1 Dynamic Driver + 7 Balanced Armature Drivers


Some Tracks Tested: ( * = 16-bit FLAC, ** = 24-bit FLAC, *'* = MQA, '*' = DSD, *'= .WAV)

Alison Krauss -When You Say Nothing At All *
Jade Wiedlin - Blue Kiss**
Led Zeppelin - When The Levee Breaks **
Mountain - Mississippi Queen *
Queen - Killer Queen **
Guns N' Roses - Patience *'*
Eric Clapton - Tears in Heaven '*'
Sergio Mendes- Never Gonna Let You Go '*'
Pearl Jam - Daughter **
Roselia - Hidamari Rhodonite *
Assassin - Fight (To Stop The Tyranny)*
Celtic Frost- Visual Aggression *
New Order - Blue Monday *
The Corrs- What Can I do (unplugged version) *
Jimi Hendrix Experience - Voodoo Child *
The Madness- Buggy Trousers *
Metallica - Motorbreath **
Mariah Carey- Always Be My Baby *
Destiny's Child - Say My Name *
Malice Mizer- Au Revoir *
Mozart - Lacrimosa *
New York Philharmonic Orchestra - Dvorak- Symphony 9 " From the New World." *
Eva Cassidy - Fields of Gold (Sting cover)*
Michael Jackson - Give In To Me *
Exciter - Violence and Force *
Diana Krall - Stop This World **
Debbie Gibson - Foolish Beat *'*



P.S.
I am not affliated to CCA nor receive monetary incentives and financial gains as they provide me a review unit for an exchange of factual and sincere feedback from yours truly.

Once again, I would like to thank Jeff Yang for providing this review unit, I truly appreciate on his generosity towards me and other reviewers.

If you are interested this IEM product from CCA, Just check out the link below:

https://www.kztws.com/products/ca16-pro

Good day! Here are my views and experiences with the CCA C16 Pro after three days of average use. The two main issues are whether the CA16 Pro is worth the asking price (66USD) and how it compares to its sister company's new product, the KZ ZEX. Let's find out!

Product link: https://shopee.ph/CCA-CA16-Pro-Earp...zUlLrQT_aYX5s4-m9dYMH0vcijHujFEAHGD36Xt3N6w4Y

Product link: https://www.kztws.com/products/ca16-pro?_pos=1&_sid=0894cf7ec&_ss=r&variant=42101065810171

My review page: https://www.facebook.com/aurafireviews


Disclaimer/s:

• GKEarphones.ph/CCA (Love Jr David) sent this review unit to me free of charge, aside from the shipping/postage fees in exchange for an unbiased, honest review. Rest assured that everything I say and write about this IEM will be true and free from any bias/es
• No money is/was involved during and after the creation of this review.
• CCA/GKEarphone.ph does not have any control over anything that I am about to say in my review. My review is created, written, and owned by me and me alone.
• Your mileage may (and always will,) vary.

Source/s Used:

-Hidizs AP80, EQ and MSEB turned off
- Not-By-VE Avani Realtek DAC
- Samsung Galaxy S3 (WM1811 DAC)
- Realme 5i (non-Hi-Fi smartphone)
- Roon, YouTube Music, Foobar for Local Files. Ranges from 16-bit FLAC to DSD128.


Brain/Burn-In Time Burn-in/Audition Time: 15 hours, for 3 days.

Sound signature:

V-shaped. Fun/lively sounding. Massive bass, slightly recessed clean mids (a little more recessed than the KZ ZEX), raised, reasonably defined highs. An all-rounder sounding IEM.

• Lows:

Lows are definitely present, emphasized and huge. The catch is that, despite its elevation, it is well-controlled and does not get boomy or muddy. Subbass rumble greater in amount compared to midbass. Basshead can be satisfied with this pair and can satisfy EDM tracks as well.

• Mids:

Lower mids is a bit recessed and exhibits little warmth. Bodied enough, not too thick or thin. Upper mids have good shine and elevation as well. Using this IEM at more than 60% loudness may cause the top frequencies to sound harsh. Sibilant instances or sibilant-prone tracks may arise. Depending on the track, the mids have above-average clarity with minimal to no bleed.

• Highs:

Highs is slightly elevated when compared to the elevation of the lows, exhibit good extension and sparkle. When played at moreover 60% loudness, cymbals can produce a splashy sound. Above-average detail retrieval, with easy hearing of subtleties and details.

• Soundstage, imaging, and separation:

The soundstage is average, with more width than depth. Separation is average. It isn't very large but not narrow either. It can sound a touch crowded when busy tracks are played. Imaging is accurate, but not precise. It can play up to five instruments with precise enough positioning for the user to determine.

Comparisons

• Vs. KZ ZEX:

When compared to ZEX, this has considerably more controlled lows in quantity. The CA16 pro's mids are a little recessed when compared to the ZEX, but both have clean and open mids for their respective pricing point/s.

Pros:

• Decent, All-rounder sound
• Controlled, big bass (subjective)
• Clear mids
• Flush, comfortable fit and above average isolation.
• Decent build quality.
• Easy to drive, can be driven well by a non-hifi source.
• Decent enough detail retrieval. I remembered my TFZ Exclusive 3’s detail retrieval on this one.

Cons:

• Barebone accessories. My unit only came with a cable, and 3 pieces of small and large eartips out of the box. I was expecting a bit more accessories, like for example, a pouch or a case or a different set of eartips for its price range (66USD)
• Upper frequencies can sound harsh on higher volumes (60% up)
• Instances of sibilance can appear on sibilant prone tracks, if used above 60% volume.
• Recessed mids (subjective)

Verdict:

In terms of sound quality, the CCA CA16 Pro is already enough for an all-rounder set for $60 or more. However, accessories are a different story. On their next product releases, I believe it would be preferable if they included a case/pouch as well as a sufficient variety of eartips. Overall, the device is recommendable as an all-rounder IEM if you're only interested in sound quality and don't mind the packing and accessories.

Thank you for reading!


(Product images)