SuperTFZ Force1

Here’s the deal, when you see the pictures and price of the SUPERTFZ Force 1 you have already made assumptions as to the sound quality. I can tell you right now you’re probably underestimating it, at least I was. What ends in surprise is just how balanced and complete the sound is. Realize too, this takes only about 3 minutes to figure out. At times my job of reviewing is easy, these reviews write themselves, and this is one of those times. So if you’re curious as to how the current IEM landscape has changed, here is an affordable and sonically accessible & new TFZ gateway product.



First Impressions:
Contrary to what you may think, I want first impressions to go easy on the SUPERTFZ Force 1. Why? Well, we have all day to look for imperfections. I want to view the Force 1 in an optimal light straight-out-of-the-gate. So what I did was get out my ISN SC4 cable, the midcentric Sony WM1A Walkman with MrWalkman firmware, and my favorite Penon IEM tips. Gone is the stock 3.5mm cable, gone are the included ear-tips. I have plenty of time (later in this review) to judge the quality of those extras. But today I want this to be the equivalent of me giving my dog a corn-chip. Mentally I want to jump all-over the chair with excitement. I want to claw the furniture and basically go wild. I want to find out just how strong the SUPERTFZ Force 1 plucks my heart strings.



Delain
Apocalypse & Chill
“Chemical Redemption”
44.1 kHz - 24 bit

This song was chosen due to the guitars. BAs don’t often get the timbre right on this guitar. Don’t get me wrong, many BA sets do really well, only they are way outside of the $79.00 price-point-league we have here. That’s right kids, for the asked-for cash at $79.00.............there is ample amount of “goodness’ in the form of rocking guitar timbre going on.............so much so that I would (even go so far as to) say it’s perfect? I know, I know perfect is a pretty big word around these parts, heck nothing is perfect, but parts of stuff is! And this is one case. Now I’m really getting ahead of myself, as the guitar only takes 1/2 of a second to judge. Guitar is easy in a way, rhythm guitar in songs simply repeats itself over and over. And like drums is why we call the guitar the intermediary. The guitar has the pace of the drums but the tone and timbre the drums wish they had. SO………that’s what’s special, and the reason I focus on guitar quality. Next up is a SUPERTFZ Force 1 playback that takes a little time to pin-down. The bounce………..the bounce is not just the pace, but a bolt-on style of groove that is hard to define. Meaning at times this “groove" is more, and at times it’s less. Also of course there are (only) places in the test song which capture this groove. Or should I say there are places in playback where the IEM captures this phenomenon.



The Groove:
This single item is so important that IEMs are judged (on this trait) regardless of technicalities, as long as there is this connection with groove. Dogs at times have groove, people have groove, at times people only have groove when they are away from the public and let their guard down. Other times out in public, some strangers are showing way too much groove. Probably my favorite public display of groove is slightly subdued and classy? And that’s what we have with the TFZSUPER Force 1, a reserved yet potent way it does the bass and drum interaction. This “groove” works its way up past the drums and bass to add that bounce with guitar. But because that guitar also has great timbre, now we are having fun. All this takes place in only a matter of about 1/2 a song. And just like my dog with a “Scooby-snack”…..I too am enjoying these audio-snacks.

An encapsulated review:
While some of you are short on interest or time, and (due to that) want less reading. This section is offered as a way to circumvent reading the whole long-winded review. Here just the important points are given and should suffice to give most people all they need to make a quality buying decision.
They rock!

$79.00
https://penonaudio.com/supertfz-force1.html



Before we start with this review I do want to get a few small concerns out of the way. First off everything except the IEMs and ear-tips are not truly needed. I mean yes, the box opening experience is nice and all, plus they have a sticker at the seam to guarantee the box has never been opened……………..plus a hologram sticker to ensure it’s all original. But really at this price point I can think of other ways to make a dramatic impression. The cable is bizarre, meaning you probably (if you’re reading this) have an extra cable, maybe it’s in 4.4mm balanced so you can take advantage of more power? The Force 1 loves power. But more than that, they have gone and made the included cable be advertising with giant unergonomic “huge-chunky” slabs of chromed steel. Such extras are far from the best design, and while it may work well if that’s all you have.........still, you can easily do better.

Laughably the full package unopened weighs 334 grams, but if you take everything out of the box, the box alone weighs 258 grams with nothing at all in it! There is a style of IEM tray that the IEMs arrive in, there is a bag to carry them around with………but come-on………………is anyone ever going to use that elaborate plastic tray again? No one uses those storage bags……and the packaging……this tower of cardboard, it’s heavy and while dramatic, is not really needed other than to protect the IEMs in route. Also (get this) the storage box has a false bottom, maybe there is a whole extra IEM and packaging hiding in the 1st floor level? Don’t get me wrong, these are world-class IEMs for the cash, it’s just that the extras could be considered free.



Let’s get down to business:
TFZ stands for "The Fragrant Zither” and SUPERTFZ Force 1 is an expansion of that name. The “Fragrant” part I can only guess came from the Zither being an instrument that was/is often played by women? TFZ got their start in 2015……I heard a few TFZ IEMs while in Thailand in 2018. As the years roll-on we can find a small but loyal following at Head-Fi. And while they have never exactly gained mainstream status, they have shared a loyal following, like many Chinese brands……..which take-on a cult like following over the years.

https://www.head-fi.org/threads/the-fragrant-zither-tfz-reviews-and-impressions-thread.852820/

At Penon Audio they offer 63 different TFZ products, while 21 are sold-out, you can definitely start to see a progression in technology. This new side-brand is introduced as SUPERTFZ which offers 3 products at this time. While naming is a marketing concept all itself, we went from a perfumed musical instrument to a more masculine moniker in the triple “FORCE” series. Truly this new burst of energy with three new models offering a subtle reworking of the name and a rush of enthusiasm. While I totally agree with this introduction of a more man-like name, it’s really a perfect way to go for the band. While a name like “BRUTE FORCE”……Lol, would have been way too over-the-top, SUPERTFZ Force is more like Star Wars, Let The Force Be With You!

1) SUPERTFZ FORCE 1 $79.00
2) SUPERTFZ FORCE KING $129.00
3) SUPERTFZ FORCE 5 $199

As it turns out the FORCE 1 is entry level for the FORCE series, though TFZ has made many flagships topping out at $439.00. The evolution is noted as bringing a progression of sound reproduction ideas to reality. With the new name comes a refinement of ideas…….

1) Dual Magnetic/Tesla Flux System
2) 10.2mm 4th Generation Nano-coated Beryllium Dynamic Driver
3) Non-Cavity harmonic copper seat with 0.5 Harmonic Distortion

Specifications:
Model: FORCE 1
Driver: 10.2mm dual magnetic Tesla magnetic group Beryllium coated diaphragm
Impedance: 32Ω
Sensitivity: 105dB
Frequency response: :5Hz-40kHz
Cable length: 120cm
Plug: 3.5mm stereo straight plug
Connector: 2pin 0.78mm

Besides the fact that the driver has been somehow isolated into its own individual chamber, the fact that the solid resin build is somewhat unique in my experience. After having gone over my entire collection of IEMs, I only find one other builder that has decided to go with solid resin, the Magaosi K5.

https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/magaosi-k5.22812/reviews#review-24821

While visiting in Thailand in 2018 I purchased the Magaosi K5. It just so happened to be in a little shop next to a few TFZ IEMs. Hence we come full-circle, and with the Magaosi K5 boasting 5BA drivers, it exhibits a thorough amount of BA timbre. Like many here, my personal IEM understanding has been a slow and prolonged journey, I’m always learning new things. But at the time I purchased the K5, I was truly infatuated with BAs, I was focusing on the soundstage they produced, and the midrange detail/itemization they performed. Though now I’ve learned that there is a wide range of BA timbre, with some being close to natural, and others parlaying a steely metallic tone that separates a good IEM from a bad one. So amazingly, my two solid resin IEMs exhibit an opposite in tone, the old Magaosi K5, the poster-child of bad BA timbre and the FORCE 1, the exact reason why you don’t want to fool around with BAs in the first place! These two IEMs are as different as black and white. While life is rarely so simple to figure out, most of the Hybrid IEMs I truly love have found away around BA timbre. Not always, but most of them will use a Dynamic Driver for the lows and utilize a few BAs to add midrange and treble detail. The magic takes place when somehow the IEM builder uses a BA showing less "off" BA timbre, or somehow it will be masked. Of course the single full-range Dynamic could care less about such issues, as well as offering a level of cohesiveness the standard Hybrid could never possibly dream of achieving. Still for single DD to excel they need to overcome a different series of obstacles.

1) Correct response, meaning an even, correct and complete frequency response
2) A separation in the soundstage of elements
3) A crispness in ability
4) A balance

Just to name just a few………..

The BAs by themselves are often crisper (at times) just by nature, they also offer a separation of elements because they are actually separated in frequency focus. Each individual driver has a frequency bandwidth and generate a pinpoint response. A crossover network is implemented to delegate each frequency amount to each individual driver. That’s why I purchased the Magaosi K5, for the money it has great transient response and great imaging inside the soundstage, Due to a relatively flat bass (BA bass) response, those same characteristics were further brought to life……..only they held somewhat awful timbre, which I later identified. Part of the reason a person doesn’t notice such artifacts right-off is they are not concentrating on such things. The other reason is maybe they haven’t been presented with correct instrument tone to use as a reference. Obviously there are other factors than just correct tone, and different IEMs have a range of ability as to how they do such tone. Meaning one will do fabulous vocals, one will excel at string instruments, others do better with drums….and so on……and some do great at everything. IEM methodology is not fully agreed upon as one being better than the rest, as each has both positive and negative features. The key with Dynamic Drivers is to get both the magnet strong and to get the diaphragm as thin and rigid as possible, we want it to respond as fast as possible (while flexing the least) and move back (and forth) into place with the least issues. The next choice is the chamber resonances, meaning some IEMs use the chamber for amplification, and others use the build to absorb resonances. Here we have a solid material that not only absorbs unwanted frequencies, but offers an incredible way of blocking outside noise. This is done with two concepts in mind.

1) Occlusion due to material
2) The custom form-factor shape which blocks more outside noise due to not letting any noise in around the edges due to shape and fit.

You see a solid resin material is quite effective at blocking outside noise. Why it’s not used more often, I’m not sure, except you can imagine the difficulties in construction here. A hand poured resin shell, which after it’s poured............that’s it. No more opening it up to fix a loose wire. Also resin can crack if dropped from a high place. The other interesting feature here is the diameter of the single sound tube. Never before in my experience have I seen a sound tube the same diameter as the nozzle? Normally there are a number of smaller tubes that join together at the base of the nozzle. Here we have an extra large diameter single sound tube with breather vent-port positioned right at the base of the aluminum nozzle. A second rear vent is positioned behind the 10.2mm dynamic driver right under the faceplate. The only other IEM that remotely resembles this is the DUNU SA6 which has 6 BAs which are 1/2 submerged in resin. In that design they have also put a breather/vent under the faceplate. The back of the BAs seem to exit pressure into this chamber under the faceplate. But the rest of the IEM is also solid resin. Why does all this matter? The reason it matters is two fold.

1) Sound response it indicative of design
2) The tune still needs to be in order

So both are dependent on each other for success, except a revolutionary design (like we have here) can at times offer unique progress as long as it’s tuned well, and that’s what we have. If you take the Force 1 out of your ears and turn up the volume, you can feel them vibrate slightly, this is due to direct transfer of sound vibrations from the driver. It’s like you are holding the driver chamber in your hands, of course this is while using volume levels way above listable level, as such you will not be able to feel the shells (while wearing) vibrate at normal listening levels. This construction also bypasses a whole slew of build issues with other IEM designs. Have you ever lost a 2-pin mount? Such an event happens with hollow IEMs, in that the 2 pin mount pushes through into the actual cavity, due to being mounted un-securely. Here the 2-pin is mounted right into the resin. Other companies will even go so far as to build a separate structure to reinforce the 2-pin. This looks like a support structure behind the pin-mount. Here we bypass all of those issues. The next artifact of construction could be hollow shells in having a pressure-leak. Meaning you have a driver acoustically responding in a hollow chamber, that chamber is dependent on a certain level of air-pressure to give desired response, get a loss of glue or an open-seam which could allow air-input/out-put, and we have a frequency deviation from how it was designed. With solid-resin shells there is zero chance of a wire being tugged or dislodged. There is no change of anything ever moving out of place, as everything is solidified. The downside of course is that these are not repairable if something was to happen. I’m not sure what that something would be, but there is no taking these apart, ever!




The sound:
This leads us to understanding the sound. I’ll make one single statement OK……………..This for the love of God, is my sound signature. That’s right, no beating around the bush, no making excuses.............TFZ has hit the proverbial nail on the head. There may be extra small “extras’ you could do to dial-it-in even better…….like a different cable, or wide-bore tips…………….but this is my sound. Actually I have a couple of sounds, but this here, this is the main one. This is exactly how I want to hear my music played back…….all of it! That’s why this review is so long. The response is a subtle V shape with balance. When I say balance, I mean there is no great disparity of bass to treble or treble to bass which would tilt the response. Such a playback does offer more warmth that some IEMs, but the Force 1 is not dark in any way. There is just enough treble to make it stand out and add clarity. There are just enough mids to push vocals out into the stage, and just enough bass and lower midrange to get your groove on. This in-fact may sound like the Goldilocks story…….because it is. This is my Goldilocks IEM tune. Now later on I’m going to show how it responds to various songs and list the songs and details…….but before I do I want to describe a couple things. First off, I have special test songs that I don’t disclose, I mean these reviews are descriptive enough, I don’t have to list every action I take! But let me tell you……….the secret test songs were fabulous. Why……due to image placement. That’s right, you already know about the incredible correct timbre, but next to that in importance is image placement. One time was there was this IEM that sounded off, I couldn’t put my finger on it but the sound wasn’t right. It took me a while to figure out the issue. What it was was placement, the imaging was totally screwed up. Drums and effects were totally off-kilter. And due to this discovery I have kept the test song secret and used it pretty much with every IEM I have tested. So it’s a song that has incredible soundstage, but there are drums imaged in exact position in relationship with other instruments...........and effects offer-up dimensionality. Such critical positioning, and below a bass line. So if you could imagine in a super quick span of time I can hear exactly how the whole placement of how everything goes together ! Now tone can obviously be many things, that’s a given. But placement into the soundstage can be well done, average or bad. In this song when it’s bad drums will stack on-top of one another, they will actually be occluded from perception due to wrong placement. Here probably partially due to it being a single full-range DD everything was correct. In fact it was natural and musical, while parleying not the biggest soundstage on the block, but not better than average. What I’m trying to say is it was correct! Normally, especially with $79.00 IEMs this style of technicality doesn’t exist.

Treble:
The treble excels at fast transient response times which give imaging, while still being smooth and forgiving. It is this subtle tightrope……….and even more special when you realize that single full-range DDs can at times have roll-off issues. Often there is just a slight lacking ability........where extra energy is found in the bass, but they don’t do treble correct, that or the opposite where the bass is fine.........but just a smidge is missing in the treble. Often there will be something? But not here. Still again this is a style of preference….....…the energy in the treble. Still there is a way for the treble to be even, balanced and correct when all the boxes are checked…………and that’s what we have. Normally reviewers will dissect the treble into upper, mid and lower treble so they can point-out an issue, but no not here………again Goldilocks.

Midrange:
While this shows a subtle V response, the midrange is fully accounted for. And of course that’s where the soundstage takes its expanse from.



KMFDM
HYENA
"In Dub We Trust"
44.1 kHz - 24 bit

Only with great response balance do we hear the vocals well. The mids offer the male vocals a clarity due to just being correct. Believe me “Dub” can be a test of frequency response, but more than that, the imaging is fast and eventful. The vocals have a nice echo that we can hear.........the vocal relief into the stage is great. And while at 2 minutes 39 seconds we have (all-of-a-sudden) competition with the vocals in a (newly introduced) lead guitar. Such showboat-style guitar fits the song, and while it’s competing with the vocals, it’s really a form of accent. The singing and guitar are playfully back and forth………so when the lead takes a position of emphasis, it’s welcome and better than welcome, it’s part of a climax in the song...........as lead guitar often is. At 3 minutes 45 seconds, more fireworks are lit-off. This song is special due to being the last song on the album, but also because it has a form of magic. Everything just works in the song, the way it was recorded, the tone of the instruments, the (Dub-sytle) bass never getting in the way, like you hear in so many late night bars. Here we are bestowed with true audiophile presentation. Unforgettable midrange, that makes this number work! I could write pages about this song with the Force 1, but let’s move on, we have more to cover! I have feeing this song was recorded this summer, it has a wonderful summer vibe!

Bass:
Round and technical, bouncing and owning a beat. With some songs the Force 1 bass is slightly more reserved in stature and "fast"..........other times like here it's clear but not as totally focused? I will admit I often listen to this song, but not for bass reasons, yet it is a great example, as we will find out!



Kauan
Sorni Nai
"Kit"
44.1 kHz - 24 bit

This song is about hiking is a snow storm…….maybe……..the whole album is about this subject, anyway………..The vocals start the song off, and there is an abrupt echo at 2 seconds. It’s compounded with another echo and a recurring echo of repeating the tone of the first vocal as it pans across. A piano is introduced (actually from the song start) and we now hear the snow storm. The sound effects are an important bass response as they are allocated to lower frequencies at 18 seconds in……..and this song is all about correct decays and echos. At 26 seconds the song has a start………where the central theme is introduced. At 50 seconds in we have a kick-drum and such deep tone is added as a form of entertainment, as the lead-up was thinner, but that’s how they roll, progression and gaining plateau.The beautiful part of that section is the combined cymbal crash with the kick…..that shows everything can be heard…….even the fall-off (decay) of the cymbal! I chose this song due to it’s style of meandering bass line. The fact that bass character is at times more important that bass quantity. And that’s what we have, a bass line that’s an integral part of the song, worked in and needed, actually essential to how the song is built. This song has a swagger and pace that’s very unusual and fun. Also back to the beginning of the sound section here, we now understand how everything has it’s place, that the placement in the stage is of utmost importance. At 2 minutes 15 seconds shows the most simple yet effective guitar note, a single emphasized note, that shows their concentration on simplicity. Is anything more needed………..I think not? The bass is along too for the counterpoint, and we can hear everything! At 5 minutes 7 seconds the bass shows a delicate emphasis and the Force 1 is going the full gambit of tone. Such delicate replay is what the Force 1 is all about and showing sophistication well above and beyond its humble price point. Note too, that around the 5 minute 20 second place, the bass actuality is performing the lead instead of a guitar. That’s due to what is to follow as the true climax of the song, with the final distillation of power-cords……which leads into the vocals at the end.

Finally we come to the end of the sound/music section, yet with a top-off. A going back to the first song we explored here………



Delain
Apocalypse & Chill
“Chemical Redemption”
44.1 kHz - 24 bit

This was the review opener, and returning to this investigation emulates what audiophiles do when they return to songs. And much like a precious gemstone, the response of the Force 1 will slightly take-on new small idiosyncrasies when viewed under different light. But the other reason I’m returning to the song is because it shows so much. Like a cutting knife which separates reality…………this song is revealing. So much in the understanding and showcasing of playback. Here we are welcoming a complete style of playback, one that will show faults with some IEMs. Once again I return to the guitar at the 8 second mark. Here we are met with correct timbre, and other IEMs will also exhibit a range of realistic playback. But at times the guitar will sound overly treble-centric and more rough than it is in life. Here we are shown both a relaxed example of IEM playback with a splash of realism. But more than the tone, I’m hearing a separation and a soundstage, all driven by decay of imaging. That’s right, the fall-off of certain aspects (of notes) make this song. We already talked about spacial accuracy and how the imaging is just about correct, things are placed in the soundstage where they are supposed to be. But one step further, the actual reverberations have room to breath, and gain life. The main reason for good reverberations? The benefits of DD, the ability to replay the natural fall-out of frequencies. But often this phenomena is not heard due to congestion. So here besides timbre, the triad of abilities.......................added.............the reverbs and the spacial placement. This may not sound like much, but it’s everything thing with this song. Well……….almost everything, the final add you already know about. The actual balance of frequency representation. The balance of treble to bass, the placement of the midrange to do the work needed to bring the vocals here to their prime placement. Do you here the opening synth arpeggio sequence while listening to the song? Here is our very first clue as to the quality abound. The notes are warm, yet not dark, they have a pace and slight variation to which this whole song is based on. That’s right, (the arpeggio) introduce the skeleton of the song at the beginning. Right away we are welcomed and down for the entire song. At the 8 second mark really there is a whole attack of instruments, with the timbre of guitar used as a key to understanding timbre. Such playback is processed and over-driven, phase-shifted and who knows what else. At the 24 second mark we hear vocalist Charlotte Wessels take a quick breath, in fact her breath taking is showcased through-out the album. At the 40 second mark the bridge to the chorus is already in effect, and we are taken to a different level. At the 56 second mark the music almost stops to showcase the full chorus (lead-up) statement. Not the hook of the song, but hook-like none the less. This simple musical phrase consists of Charlotte Wessels, a synth and a kick-drum.Yet almost the whole reason for this paragraph is found here, that’s right, the echos in the synth along with her voice as well as the kick-drum. The Force 1 shows an uncanny ambiance way, way above its humble price-point. The reality is that three different reverbs are used here, one for the drums, one for the synth and one for the vocals…….in-which there is a transition at the end of multi-tracked vocal reverberations at the 1 minute 8 second mark; kind-of a reverse of sounds. Finally at 1 minute 11 seconds we experience the full chorus of the song. They then continue to reintroduce these various themes, yet at 2 minutes 14 seconds somehow it’s all clearer, and dramatic. Increased volume changes maybe, yet here the song is truly in gear. At 3 minutes the lead guitar starts like clock-work, at 3 minutes 21 seconds the lead is over……….yet we are satisfied, and more so that the Force 1 doesn’t use a wrong tweaked-up of timbre for the lead, the lead is not saturated, yet fully heard in it’s naturalness…….this is what you are paying your money for……………the small stuff. When the song is over we are left with memories..........such flash-backs can reintroduce song elements. Probably most memorable is the backing chorus, seeping into our daily life as a remnant of the musical experience………..the stuff we take with us......after the song ended.

Burn-in:
Laughably the SUPERTFZ Force 1 was burned in for 7 days straight. Why? Single full-range DD, that’s why. While really the Force 1 was stelar straight out of the box, 168 hours went and smoothed out the flow, as well as added slight cohesiveness. The truth is most IEMs are not exactly this way. Many, almost all, will get a slight bass boost from burn-in. In actuality the treble may have smoothed out some, but there were no off-notes, or serious issues which needed burn-in to fix. I could have almost done this whole review a week ago, still in the effort for completeness..........such formalities are required. I’m telling myself soundstage also increased a little, part of this too may be mental adaption, where as you become familiar with a sound signature you slowly hear more into it. Think of sitting on the edge of a hill and looking out over a city, after a while new points of interest start to emerge, new questions even arise. Such responses are just leaning to get to know an IEM..............and going from first impressions to having a solid idea of what you truly have.

Cable rolling:
First off we talked about the included cable a little at the start. Such novelties are truly different, the chunky advertising placement of the brand symbol on the bifurcation block, the plug (which is the largest) with a style of huge thick chrome, almost yelling for a passer-by to read it. Nonsense maybe, but if you had no other choices, it’s not bad, still a fast look into your collection should offer another choice. Even the 4.4mm $16.99 FAAEAL Hibiscus (cable) seemed to offer (maybe) a slight improvement. Rolling back to the included cable (just like prior reviews state).............there are many opportunity for sonic improvement with a quick and easy cable change out. Most of this change was added energy in the mids and upper treble from an example like the ISN SC4 cable. A new person really may not even recognize or even want a boost in those areas. Ignorance is bliss so to speak as far as having a yearning for a cable change. And while slightly more money than the IEM by itself, after going back and forth, I can sincerely recommend the ISN SC4 cable as an avenue to take the Force 1 to much better places.

https://penonaudio.com/isn-audio-sc4.html

The ISN SC4 cable, used with the Walkman 1A, made the sound I was looking for. And while the stock cable and a simple phone output were fine, taking the Force 1 to the next level is real and advised as far as this listener reports. Such benefits were expanded soundstage, a brighter midrange and treble, with increased speed and texture of the bass. Amazingly the dramatic formed ear-hooks on both the included cable and the FAAEAL Hibiscus cable were not needed in any from to keep the Force 1 in the ear. Also the $32.50 ISN S8 cable was another great choice for the Force 1. To reiterate my cable experience, the included cable offers a nice balance which is also parallel to the FAAEAL Hibiscus cable, though maybe a slight improvement using 4.4mm amplification. The ISN SC4 cable was a noticeable walk-in-the-park increase in imaging but primarily focused on better midrange and treble tone, and didn’t included dramatic ear-hooks. The ISN S8 cable was also a noticeably better experience than the included cable, and didn’t included ear-hooks! While many may consider cable changes a required necessity with the Force 1, a person is still able to simply get 90% of the full experience with included cable.

https://penonaudio.com/isn-audio-s8.html



The comparisons:
This was the single most rewarding and enlightening part of the review for me.

First off, I want to explain the single picture. Note the ear-tip, it is the same provided wide-bore that comes in the Force 1 box, but place it on a random nozzle and witness the difference. So we have a phenomena of the same tip providing three times the nozzle opening (end-distance) from one IEM placement to another. This probably affects sound, but also interesting none the less. These same ear-tips were used on every IEM in the test, regardless if optimal or not. And sure enough, each time there were slight nozzle end variations. This set of side-by-sides should prove eventful due to the reality of sound signatures coming into direct contact with one another. I have attempted to chose a few IEMs which would (by guessing) help delineate sound characters of one another. Truly price was a the main point of selection, as price to performance is why you’re reading anyway……..besides understanding character. The ISN D10 cable was left on due to MMCX paranoia in the photo.

1. Cat Ear Meow, a $55.00 2 X DD dynamic driver IEM
2. Tipsy TTROMSO PineStone Sea, an $89.00 single full-range dynamic driver IEM
3. 7Hz x Crinacle Salnotes Dioko, a $99.00 dollar planar IEM (Of couse purple color)
4. ISN D10, a $149.00 full-range dynamic driver IEM

(By going off memory) I have already taken my impressions and overlaid the perimeters onto a general understanding of each performance and individual character. Yet, often when judged side-by-side, the truth will go to disclose things slightly different. Why? Because IEM judgment (while attempting to be objective) never truly is factual 100% of the time. There are a multitude of factors which help obfuscate the final results. Hence the order the original reviews were done, the contrasts in relation to other IEMs heard. This historic element has so much to change option...............as we all have listening histories and experiences………thus the new IEM is in relation to past IEMs.


A) https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/cat-ear-meow.26008/reviews#review-29148

B) https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/tipsy-ttromso-pinestone-sea.25757/reviews#review-28179

C) https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/7h...ioko-universal-iem.25990/reviews#review-29004

D) https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/isn-d10.24286/reviews#review-29043

As this list of IEMs was chosen, I could have placed twice as many direct comparisons. But does 8 direct comparisons give a stronger picture of IEM quality, or will I lose you as a reader? Where is the balance in this study?

I chose the D10 as the heavyweight as it’s fully more money, but acts as an example of what you get with that extra money spent. The Meow was chosen as the new kid on the block, also an example of what would happen if you spent a little less money. The Dioko an example of planar personality, and the TTROMSO a direct example in sound response. Never the less I chose the included cable with the Dioko, the ISN SC4 cable for the SUPERTFZ Force 1, Cat Ear Meow, and the TTROMSO. The ISN D10 got its included cable ($58.90 ISN S4) as it was the only MMCX, plus it is said to optimize D10 playback. The controversy here is I am using the SC4 cable priced at $99.90 with lesser priced IEMs. My response to that is, I’m using it on the three of the IEMs, the Dioko doesn’t need what the SC4 cable does, hence the included cable. My other reasons are (note single DD) the character of response equally gets the benefits of slightly better separation and midrange/treble sparkle, a benefit that I would want in use with my single full-range DDs. While the included (Force 1) cable is in many ways middle of the road, and not bad at all, it’s just that we are looking for improvements (where improvements can be found) for a reasonable price. Such showboat Force 1 included cable could have been used to equalize all the 2 pin testing today, as it’s ok, but not the best.

In side-by-side testing, the included Force 1 cable and the FAAEAL Hibiscus cable......were in a way equal. Remember though the FAAEAL Hibiscus cable was used in 4.4mm mode, and the included (cable) was using the 3.5mm unbalanced amplifier. So you can see, I don’t view it as a bad included cable, just not optimal for our uses today! In my test today I used the Sony Walkman WM1A with MrWalkmans firmware and I used the Force 1 included wide-bore tips in large size for every single side-by-side. Such wide-bore tips were not bad, but were very much a style of wide-bore which positioned the nozzle-end very close to the tip-end allowing the frequencies to scatter-off at point of dispersion into the ear canal. Such ear-tips in no way enhance bass frequency, but normally increase soundstage and noticeability of transient response. This mid-frequency and treble-boost can often increase the feeling of detail, recovering sonic elements from languishing in sonic mud.

1) Cat Ear Meow vs Force 1
This has been an IEM of slight controversy of late. Now you would guess me putting wide-bore tips on and joining it with the one-of-the-most mid/treble hyped-up cables would be tossing it from the frying pan into the fire! And while yes, out of my four demo songs it was too mid-forward in one……….this maybe my hearing…………but it was fine with the other three songs. Though obviously more midrange forward and bright. Such tests remind us of the Force 1’s inherent sound signature. The Force emitted a gloriously wider stage with elements found excitedly in the smallest of back spaces! Yet all was with less vividness and pushiness than the Meow. The Cat Ear Meow’s more rough and tumble, and the Force 1 of a more smooth and polished affair. One again the Meow shows itself to exist more wild and of an untamed nature, while still providing a service of reproduction, despite what I have given her to chew-on. What was the antidote to the Force 1’s personality was a little too much extra spice for the Meow………….thus jacking it up, and adding unneeded hype to the found peaks. As putting the cat back into its cage with the regularly used $32.50 ISN S8 cable was return to glory and acceptability! Should I have tested these two with different cables and tips? Maybe, but of the four songs I think I found the important differences, and in the end it just depends on your mood, as while they are remotely the same, they are truly more different due to the midrange on the Meow and the soundstage expansion on the Force 1.

2) Pinestone Sea vs Force 1
The Pinestone in another that doesn’t get all love it deserves. With these tips and cable the response in way more mid-detailed than I ever remember it to be. The imaging and expansion of the soundstage texture...........remarkable. Gosh, I really have to use these more. Also the changes have delegated the bass to what maybe would be considered an optimal place, where I normally think of this set as highly bass deep and almost foggy, here we are met with an endearing pace and resolve? W H A T?

But more than that, as I go off the scheduled programing into unknown listening territory……I have a newly garnered respect for the Pinestone. These are not the same ear-monitors I reviewed back in March 20, 2022………as I didn’t have the magical ISN SC4 cable to optimize them to perfection…………who knew? If anyone has the Pinestones sitting in their collection and maybe not used as frequently as you thought when you bought them, it may be time for a new cable? This is truly a change I would have half-way guessed, but not fully expected, when the rubber meets the road! While changing over to the Force 1 the first thing noticed is a slight refinement.........a clarity of instruments, but remember, it’s that instrument placement (the perfect) placement, adding an acceptance and thrill..............special at the price-point asked. Where the Pinestone does a different magic, having a more open, less refined sound, but dishing-up a more harmonically expand imaging of elements. Where the Force 1 is probably more real and natural, there is no doubt in my mind these two are both special. My problem is that the Pinestone is only slightly less well-rounded, where it almost became to forward in the mids (something I thought previously I would never say)…………….those characteristics of the Pinestone made for a slightly more dramatic replay on some stuff. In the end the Force is more prim and proper, with a more accessible methodology, if you went on vacation and only took one IEM with you……..maybe the Force 1 would be that single IEM. Still having both near me allows for fantastic tandem teaming! Truly the Pinestone is a force all its own!

3) Dioko vs Force 1
The imaging and itemization placement with the Dioko is cool………..and really what we paid for! And of course the detail is better with Dioko does, of course you knew that was coming! The Dioko rules detail in the sub-$100 realm, yet this resolution is not with-out its drawbacks. As often with single full-range DDs.............the bass is slightly more present with the Force 1, so we are truly comparing apples and oranges at this point in the review. Do you love chocolate ice-cream or vanilla? Because both are wonderful in their own right. Still I’m leaning towards the Force 1 as a more accessible IEM, more balanced to my ears. And again this IS my sound signature……all of it. Where the Dioko is fun, and a special spectacle of sonic bliss, especially with bass heavy music.

Now this may come as a surprise...............an IEM which is conservative on bass fronts............why on earth would you ask of playback specialty in bass? Because the bass heavy music (adding of extra bass, in the song) shows bounce when there is a possibility of not finding any with standard (lower bass music). So while the planar here is showing its due diligence in parlaying wonderful and engaging treble and midrange, probably best in the world under $100, the bass in not quite enough for this listener. So in comparison I find the Force 1 to inch past the Dioko in this single comparison. The wide-bore tips were still no solution to Dioko bass, or lack there of it, as an example of ear-tips they did enhance the spacial ability of the Dioko into the soundstage, yet no matter what ear-tips I used, the Dioko bass was not quite enough for me. Here is a great example of low-end musicality (with the Force 1) wining-out over resolution in the end.

4) ISN D10 vs Force 1
So many of you that are familiar with the D10 tricks would know, there is no touching the ISN D10 bass impact. But also there was a slight realness and relaxed oneness that won-out over the Force 1. Still that physicality and forwardness of the D10 bass is at risk of showing a slight lack of polish and refinement displayed by the Force 1. Where the D10 has some on the best bass I have ever heard, ever……and in addition that bass doesn’t mess with the other frequencies. But the Force 1 has a harmon tune with extra bass that is not quite as drastic as the D10......thus more everyday listening. Where the D10 is this hearing into the bass and having it hold a infatuation that is borderline distracting. The D10 also though produces slightly darker images of midrange and treble, slightly thicker and more well-fed. The Force 1 does an amazing job nonetheless, costing actually more when you factor in the cable add! $149.00 D10 in stock form in comparison to $99.90 SC4 cable and SUPERTFZ Force 1 $79.00 = 178.90. Yet at the 178.90 you’re getting a faster bass and a more forward midrange and thinner yet brighter treble, losing a little of that dramatic soundstage the D10 effortlessly reinforces. So? It’s hard to choose…….maybe impossible, except when that faster, more sculpted and focused bass of the Force 1 hits……there is nothing like it!



Conclusion:
This is my signature, it’s absolutely what I want to hear as far as Frequency Response when I hear music. I can’t guarantee it will be your Frequency Response…………..but hopefully it will be correct for you? This is a great example of a warm but not dark signature, a balanced and even reproduction. Such replay is both correct and complete, at least for me and my hearing. Also there is a great mixture of bounce in the lows and spacial positioning in the mids. Such replay wouldn’t be complete without a full-reach into the highs, leaving no sonic stone unturned! While not totally (airy) or treble imaged (full-on) spatially, it’s satisfying and relatively complete. At the asking price, it’s truly special, and one of my favorite replays as of late. The build is cool………….really very beautiful as well as functional. The Force 1 flows into your ears and due to the solid resin construction, offers sound occlusion in noisy environments. The way the Force 1 fits deep causes increased fidelity, as well as keeping them in place. All this adds up to a great out and about IEM, but I won’t be going outside with it.......... as it’s just too precious of a thing. The SUPERTFZ Force 1 stays at home as it's something too precious to lose.

TFZ clicked all the boxes, making a true example of modern day IEM construction and design. While the extras may or may not be used, the box opening experience is amazing. If anything this packaging keeps the IEMs safe and secure.......and truly a first for me at this price point. The pace is probably my most favorite aspect, because it’s incredibly rhythmic and fun. Though none of that would matter if the imaging placement wasn’t correct too. In many ways the SUPERTFZ Force 1 reminded me of what’s important here.............to provide a pleasurable sound response at an exquisite dollar-value. What’s inside the big box? A treasure to behold.

$79.00
https://penonaudio.com/supertfz-force1.html


Disclaimer:
I want to thank Penon Audio for the love and the SUPERTFZ Force 1 review sample.

Disclaimer:
These are one persons ideas and concepts, your results may vary.

Equipment Used:
Sony WM1Z Walkman DAP MrWalkman Firmware 4.4mm and 3.5mm
Sony WM1A Walkman DAP MrWalkman Firmware 4.4mm and 3.5mm
Sony TA-ZH1ES DAC/AMP Firmware 1.03
Electra Glide Audio Reference Glide-Reference Standard "Fatboy" Power Cord
Sony Walkman Cradle BCR-NWH10
AudioQuest Carbon USB
UA3 Dongle DAC/Amplifier 4.4mm and 3.5mm

Introduction

What is SuperTFZ? With that name, the only clear thing is that it seems to come from TFZ. Is it something like a sub-brand or is it the evolution of TFZ in an improved form? Just guessing, but it is clear that SuperTFZ has been on the market for three models already and I don't think I have seen a new TFZ model during these launches. The first release from the brand is the model I'm going to review today, the FORCE1. This is a model that uses a handmade transparent resin capsule, the design of which looks familiar to me. Inside is a dynamic driver from the Tesla magnetic group, with a double magnetic circuit and a beryllium-coated diaphragm. The cable has a peculiar design, especially in its metal and rectangular connectors. It uses a four-stranded cable with 24 wires of 0.05 each and the connection is 2Pin 0.78mm. The complete transparency of the capsule allows you to see inside and how the driver cover is gold-plated, as well as the brand name around it.
After this model, the brand has released two more, each one more expensive than the previous one. The second in the list is the Force King ($129) and the most recent is the Force 5 ($199). It is clear that the names are not very original, as well as repetitive. But we'll see if that has any influence on the sound…

Note: It seems that there is a version of this model that has a hole near the metal mouthpieces. I don't know if this influences the sound or not. The version reviewed here does not have such a hole.



Specifications

• Driver Type: Dynamic driver with dual Tesla group magnetic circuit with beryllium coated diaphragm.
• Frequency Response: 5Hz-40kHz
• Sensitivity: 105dB
• Impedance: 32Ω
• Jack Connector: 3.5mm SE stereo straight plug.
• Capsule Connection Type: 2pin 0.78mm
• Cable length: 120cm.

Packaging

The SuperTFZ Force1 comes in a vertical box with a square, black base. Its dimensions are 93x93x148mm. It opens by sliding the cover upwards. The cover is light coloured on the sides and black on the top. On each side there is a different motif, on one side the logo in black on a white background, on others realistic photos of the capsule and, finally, the brand name and the holographic seal of authenticity. The box has a seal to certify its closure. Removing the cover reveals that the box is a parallelepiped with the IEMS resting on its square top. These are embedded in a black plastic tray, underneath it is another dark cardboard box inside which are the rest of the accessories. In a nutshell:

• The two SuperTFZ Force 1 capsules.
• A black bag with gold-plated brand logo.
• Silver plated 4-strand cable with 2Pin 0.78mm connection and 3.5mm SE plug.
• 1 set of white silicone and narrow core tips, sizes SxMxL.
• 1 set of white silicone tips with wide core, sizes SxMxL.
• 1 pair of extra tips already attached to the IEMS.
• 1 instruction manual in Chinese and English.

Each set of silicone tips comes in a white pouch.
The packaging is a bit big for the contents, it could be half the size. It should be noted that it is original, but I would miss a hard case with a zip instead of the pouch. Except for this preference, the contents are just right and while the cable is quality.



Construction and Design

The Force1s are made entirely of transparent, high-strength resin. Inside you can see the large dynamic driver. The mouthpieces are metallic and gold-plated, 5mm long and 5.1mm diameter. They are fitted with a fine-mesh metal filter. The outer sides of each IEM are translucent. In my case they are of a colour that varies according to the light and there is a completely transparent option. In the centre of the outer faces you can see the brand logo as if it were a golden foil, on the right capsule. On the left side you can read the brand name on the base in gold italic letters. The 2Pin 0.78mm connections are gold-plated and resin-coated in an oval shape. The set is very compact, strong and durable looking, as well as beautiful and very attractive.
The cable is 4 strands with 24 silver plated wires of 0.05 each and coated with transparent TPU. It has over-ear guides. The sleeve of its connectors is particular, in the case of the 3.5mm connector it is a polished metal parallelepiped with the brand name on one side and two black screws on the other side. The splitter piece is more square, almost cubic and has the logo drawn in black on the main face. There is no adjusting pin and it is missing. The cable is original, but the metal parts feel a bit heavy. There is no choice of a plug other than 3.5mm SE.



Adjustment and Ergonomics

The fit is simple and excellent. The mouthpieces are not very long, but the ergonomic shape makes them project a little more, allowing you to play with multiple tips to find the best seal and sound. Depending on the size of the tips used, the insertion can be shallow or medium to suit individual taste. This is thanks to the shape and construction of the mouthpieces.
Due to the highly ergonomic design of the capsules, the fit is outstanding and movement is minimal.
In addition, the level of insulation is remarkable.



Sound

Profile

The profile of the Force1 could be represented as a pronounced W. Its sub-bass is very emancipated and from there begins a deep drop towards the mids. After reaching the valley, the rise towards the upper mids is also quite steep, but then it continues into the air zone, creating a second, much lower V. What do you get here? Well, clearly a very powerful bass, a polarised tuning, as well as high mids and highs that remain at a high level. It's a familiar profile, powerful and sharp, but stretching the clarity zone further, where others don't reach.



Bass

As a good W-profile, the sub-bass is the star, reaching an abyssal depth, with a level of power and physicality quite high in the LFO range. This tuning manages to shift the focus far to the left and the sensation of fast decay is felt, even in the low-mid range. This creates a very sensory perception of the bass and a cleaner transition, despite the high initial body. The punch, not without power, is moderately fast and bold, there is little aftertaste and its descent is pronounced towards the mids. In this way, the sound is freed from any swelling caused by the low-mid range, which has a noticeably smaller representation. In this way, the bass is not perceived as extensive, nor does it take up all the space in the range, but it is very distilled, despite the great vigour to begin with. Each stroke is finite, starting from very low but decaying with good speed, leaving only a slight aftertaste of extension, but freeing the rest of the range from its presence. This is what limits its width, it provides agility and cleanliness in the development of the low area. The texture is compacted, with an evocative initial roughness, which dissipates as the sub-bass disappears. Some information and emotion is lost, but there is no denying that the lower notes are precise and defined. The layering remains and the recreation of planes is somewhat particular, though the representation is still adequate.

Mids

The mid-range has two distinct parts. The first half feels more sunken, while the mid-highs are perceived as a flight into clarity. The initial phase is ago sterile and moderately distant. The body in this part is thinner and its presence is unremarkable. Still, it is surprising that, despite the tuning, the overall presentation of this phase is higher than expected, as well as having an equally higher than theoretical weight. It is clear that the sound is not completely homogeneous, but it is never uneven or unbalanced. It fits perfectly with a U-V profile, but with plenty of light and clarity, with no hint of darkness, and that is appreciated. The relative remoteness of the male voices detracts from their level of detail and their complexity is not very high or noticeable. It is similar with the instrumentation, the basis of which is in this first part. I can't point out that the sound is warm and I perceive a good neutrality that deserves to be noted for those looking for such a profile. As you move into the upper-mid range the sound becomes bigger and brighter, the definition improves and the excitement increases. The intonation accompanies the female voices, making them more prominent, gaining in resolution, detail and richness of nuance. However, the elevation of emphasis has been calculated with just the right amount of grace so as not to exceed the sibilance barrier. This ensures that the central range does not decompose or sound forced. I cannot deny that this step forward helps to maintain a more realistic naturalness and that the perception of the sound moves more flatly without the timbre suffering any detriment.



Treble

This is perhaps the best aspect of the Force1s, along with the remarkable sub-bass performance. I think the treble tuning, right up to almost its air zone, enjoys a great and wise blend of expressiveness, flare, control, brightness, extension and, very importantly, naturalness. It is an active presence, with plenty of information, but well contained. The treble crackles with a natural timbre, the sibilance is at bay and the extension prolongs the radiance in a pleasant, musical, even subtly soft manner, as well as possessing a lustrous emphasis. It is therefore remarkable how brightness has been combined with control, so that nothing sounds bad and everything sounds good. It's not the perfect zone, but it is very remarkable, as a clear example of how you can get realistic and pleasing highs without clipping, exaggerated control zones or limiting their extension. The Force1s have many virtues in this range, even their air zone is quite good, something that still elevates the overall quality of the zone.



Soundstage, Separation

The presentation of the scene is mainly frontal, but has good laterality, which adds to the level of realism and openness. Depth is remarkable, while height is more than adequate. The sound has enough fluidity to spread pleasantly and naturally, and even surrounds at times, appearing slightly ethereal and gaseous. Finally, with the good amount of air, the expressiveness of detail and the great presentation of the treble, the stage is superior and more vivid than average. I was surprised by the size of the soundstage, there is no congestion and the distance between elements is remarkable, without the separation hinting at a completely dark background. It's not an analytical sound, but it's not too soft either. The level of detail, resolution and definition is variable depending on the frequency range. In the early bass and from the upper-mids onwards, these are the best areas to appreciate the technical aspects. It is not a prodigy, but one could say that it is natural, with extended abilities on many occasions, possessing a good relationship between macro and micro detail.



Comparisons

Reecho SG-03

I like to compare IEMS of similar price and profile. And the Reecho SG-03 is the perfect match for the SuperTFZ Force1. These IEMS are made entirely of aircraft grade aluminium alloy. They are heavier and although their ergonomics are good, I find the fit of the Force1s superior, as well as their comfort and use for long listening. In terms of accessories the SG-03 comes with a zippered case and has 3 pairs of tips. The Force1 has a black pouch and two sets of tips. In the end, more or less the same, but I'll take the zippered case as I already have too many tips. The cable is better in the SuperTFZ.
In terms of profile the Reecho SG-03 is also characterised by an emphasised sub-bass curve, with similarly tuned mids and treble with the classic control drop after the first hit of brightness. In that sense, the Force1s stand out the most from the SG-03s, with the high end having little discussion unless the user's taste is for controlled, softer treble. One could even go so far as to say that there is a clear drop-off in the early treble of the SG-03s, when the SG-03s offer a more complete representation of the range, without any omission or clipping. No argument whatsoever in favour of the SuperTFZs.
In terms of bass there is a similarity in tuning, as in power. I sense that the Force1s have a more sub-bass oriented bass, with a little more power and darkness. Whereas the SG-03s offer a bit more extension. The bass is more sensory in the SuperTFZs, while the greater presence of mid-bass aids a more natural listening experience in the SG-03s, not as extreme and sensitive as in the Force1s. Technically, both guarantee a remarkable level and I feel that preferences between one and the other will have to do with the difference in sub-bass exposure, depth (Force1) versus the more realistic timbre and longer range (SG-03).
In the mid-range there are also differences, in this case, in favour of the Reecho. The range, despite the fact that both show a clear dip in their graphs, is not felt so much in the SG-03, as they show more body, physicality, presence and closeness in the first half of the mids. There is a clearer hollowness in this area in the Force1. The information is there, but its perception is more distant, more orphaned, less revealing and offering less richness. In addition, a more pronounced unevenness is felt, while the SG-03s manage to achieve a better balance between low-mids and high-mids. The second half is emphasised in both models. There is more sparkle in the Force1s and their better treble range offers a higher level of detail. While this same zone in the Reecho is also very positive, but with a warmer, even nuanced timbre comparatively speaking.
The scene presents itself with a similar structure. But the better airy feel seems to offer an advantage to the Force1. It feels slightly more ethereal, volatile and surrounding. Separation is more on par, but there is a better level of definition, detail and resolution in the SuperTFZs.



Conclusion

The SuperTFZ force1 is a return to a polarised profile, but an improved one. The upper area is a clear example of this. But there is also a noticeable increase in detail, resolution, richness and texture. The increased power across the entire frequency spectrum helps this sensation. In the lower range, the heavy emphasis on sub-bass offers a very sensory presentation of power, bringing a diverse and pleasing physicality and sonority. The mid-highs are tastefully tuned, controlled and do not overstep any boundaries. Only the roll-off in the first half of the mids establishes a reservation in its use as a fun all-rounder. But this is not uncommon for IEMS with a powerful W-profile. The finishing touch is an airy scene, with good separation and slightly ethereal spaciousness.



Sources Used During the Analysis

• TempoTec Variations V6.
• Hidizs AP80 PRO-X Red Copper Limited Edition.
• xDuoo Link2 BAL.
• xDuoo XD05 BAL.

Ratings

• Construction and Design: 85
• Adjustment/Ergonomics: 90
• Accessories: 70
• Bass: 85
• Mids: 73
• Treble: 90
• Separation: 90
• Soundstage: 88
• Quality/Price: 85

Purchase Link



You can read the full review in Spanish here

SuperTFZ Force 1

TFZ stands for The Fragrant Zither, was established in 2015 and have been selling mostly dynamic based IEMs with a few hybrids since its inception. What is SuperTFZ? Perhaps a new line of IEMs made by the group? As numerous as their offerings are, I have never heard a TFZ made earphone. That is until now. The SuperTFZ Force 1 is a tried and true dynamic IEM but with some surprising aspects to its make up reserved for more higher end IEMs but sold at the very accessible price of $79 on Penon web site here.

Initial impressions of the Force 1 were good even out of the box, easy on the eyes and to the ears. What was impressive is just how premium the entire package looked upon receiving and opening the taller rectangular box. A unique presentation and a first for a sub $100 IEM that is for certain.
Opening the top half of the box reveals two earpieces laid out in an almost jewel like presentation for its housing pieces. The all-clear resin makes them look not only premium but stunning to look at. One way to impress is the use of a clear resin shell which clearly shows the inner workings and the drivers used for the sound of the IEM. What is interesting is that the driver seems to be encased in its own metal shell inside the resin. The Force 1 utilizes a dual magnetic system culminating in a tesla flux, aka strong magnets to help control the highly resolving 10.2mm 4th gen nano coated beryllium plated dynamic. The rest of the package includes a thinner standard silver-plated copper cable in single ended in a standard .78mm 2 pin connector. Two sets of silicone tips and a pouch. I would say this is about average in what you get accessories wise with this level of earphone, but I have to wonder in making these so premium looking. Why not go all the way and include some better stuff, more variety of tips and a more premium case and charge a bit more? My point is that the sound more than competes with the best of the best sub $100 earphones based on my testing with the unit. What was included is fairly insignificant as most sub $100 packages are.

Disclaimers. The SuperTFZ Force 1 was provided for the purpose of a review by Penonaudio. The Force 1 was burned in for a week straight and is now ready for evaluation using my sources. IBasso DX300Max, Fiio M15, Shanling M6 pro, IFI Gryphon, IFI Signature, Fiio K3 pro, Fiio QTR7.

Build and ease of use.
The Force 1 is using an all resin build for this one and as solid as resin builds are, this one looks premium due to how clean everything looks. The physical size of the Force 1 is medium in size but is slightly bulky in build, you can see the dome that encases the dynamic driver sitting right at the heart centrally in the resin housing. Positives of resin builds are that you usually get better passive sound isolation with all that resin inside your ears. The Force 1 here shows better than average passive isolation as a result, I would guesstimate the isolation to be at least 26-28dbs of passive isolation more better with foam tips, which makes for an excellent out and about earphone. The negatives of resin builds is that they will crack and/ shatter if dropped from a tall place or hit a concrete floor with some force. Casual use with the occasional drops, they will do fine but if you accidentally drop them from your apartment terrace on the ground below that will be the end of the Force 1. The included cable here with its blocky metal accessories is a bit unique looking but in the end the cable and the tips are insignificant as far as enhancing the sonics to your Force 1. Your better aftermarket cables, especially in balanced and tips most definitely applies to the Force 1.

Open listen
I was impressed with its spacious clarity and definition, showing a nicely wide sound field with some solid dynamics and imaging. Ok, call me surprised? These sounded pretty good out of the box. But like all IEMs I review, I quickly put them on the burn in to see where they go. As far as anything using Beryllium goes. I do recommend a solid week's worth of burn-in for the Force 1. A week's worth of burn in actually balances out the sonics better than what I heard on open listen. Mids become better fleshed out, more dense in its presentation, better bass control and treble seems to clean up a touch.

Sound design of the SuperTFZ Force1 is a balanced mild V shaped harmon tuning with a good amount of clarity, surprisingly dynamic and technically solid for its foundational sound signature. Its balancing is a strong suit in that I don’t feel either the treble or the bass aspect sticks out in the balancing too much for its tuning. It has Just enough treble extension and sparkle to add a bit of clarity, a bit of air which helps with micro detailing. Just enough bass presence to give a complete sound profile with a nicely imaging mids to the Force 1. A complete sounding single dynamic in the sub $100 range? When I say complete I mean it has it all, deep reaching bass, check, good well layered rangy mids, check, and clean extended detailed treble, double check all with a nice spacious tight sound presentation. Its balancing clearly shows versatility which is key for a well rounded IEM sound signature.

Trebles
The type of dynamic drier the Force 1 is using is nothing new to the market but one thing I do know about real beryllium coated dynamics is its technical ability with solid extension on both ends of the spectrum. The trebles of the Force 1 is no exception. Quite remarkable just how complete the sound this single dynamic covers but not only is the driver more resolving than most dynamics but then they included a dual magnet reaching a tesla flux. I remember when the Beyer Xelentos came out folks were enamored with the idea of having a tesla flux magnet on a dynamic driver and what that does for sound. Well if it is true to what the descriptor on the Force 1 says, these have to be the cheapest tesla flux magnets used for dynamics. The sound certainly reflects that. A good resolving dynamic and strong magnets means a tight well detailed executed sound including its treble end that gives a complete treble experience. Extension with ample sparkle the good kind not the glary splashy type. This was evident even on open listening.

Treble presents with a clean speedy transient definition and seems to be balanced well between the lower to mid trebles with a good treble extension that leads to an airy treble note. Beryllium plated dynamics has no issues reaching the abyss for bass on the opposite end of the spectrum; it is the Force 1s ability in the trebles that is impressing me just as much. Trebles are not overly saturated or do I hear a treble spike that forces the trebles in the presentation. Its treble is moderate in emphasis with enough treble presence for all types of music I listen to. A versatile treble with good accurate transients and tonality that is just a touch on the cool side of neutral but otherwise trebles are one of the strong aspects of the Force 1 presentation. It is usually the treble end that fails for most sub $100 IEMs but not so much the Force 1. It is clearly showing me it can do accurate treble from orchestral tracks to hip hop. At the price point it is actually nicely detailed with a level of clarity and refinement that is usually not apparent at this price point.

Mids
Mids of the Force 1 is just ever so slightly laid back. Not to the point where I feel parts of the mids presentation has a recession, but it reflects on the staging of the Force1. It's wider than taller with greater depth than height of the sound.. Mids however benefit from a resolving Beryllium plated diaphragm of the Force1. It has just enough upper mid pinna gain to give credence to vocal presence both male and female. Its overall tone character is more neutral than warm or cold. Though on open listen the Force 1 was just a touch on the brighter side of neutral. Burn in seems to have opened up the sound of the Force 1 and balances its overall sound to a greater degree.

With amplification the Force 1 sound expands and scales nicely. Which by the way is most definitely recommended for optimal Force 1 sound experience. Its 32 ohm sensitivity is easy enough to drive with any source but it is when you throw the Force 1 in balanced mode on a dedicated player with some power is when the sound becomes more than what you paid for a set. Beryllium plated dynamics shows the advantages of the material by throwing out a more capable technical ability. What is impressive about the Force 1 is just how good it is in the technical aspects. It is timbrally accurate, mostly neutral in tonalities, images better than most in the price range which is the result of some excellent detail retrieval. All within a tight moderately wide spacious stage presentation. This was when I realized these things are much better than what the price here is indicating. Its balanced yet dynamic sound presentation bodes well for all types of music genres including bass genres. The Force 1 does vocals justice and sounds great for instruments, strings or otherwise perfectly fine if not just outright better than most I have heard in the price range. These sound great for acoustical tracks as much as synthetic tracks. Again that versatility is key for a well rounded IEM and Force 1 here is clearly showing it can do it all.

Bass
Bass of the Force 1 is moderate with a solid definition for its presentation. Its mid bass is punchy with no bleed and has a very nicely done textured sub bass extension. I have yet to experience any real beryllium plated or pure beryllium dynamics that is shy about the bass end. Not a single one have I experienced with any type of neutrality for its bass presence. I realize that TFZs prior history all have some semblance of emphasized bass. The Force 1s bass is tasty, tight, speedy for dynamics when called upon and rumbles like a champ when boosted. Even in stock form it has plenty of bass ability. I have not yet seen a frequency graph for the Force1 but I would wager to guess it has a healthy 7-8 or so dbs of bass lift. Bass genres sound proper as a result. Just my opinion but 8dbs is the goldilocks of bass presences for IEMs. Anything over that would be knocking on basshead territory and anything below that you might want to use your bass boost on your amplifiers. The Force 1 here has a nice balanced bass presentation with a nicely textured rumbling sub bass presence and is most definitely satisfying. I mentioned amplification for the Force 1. Its overall presentation gets a natural expansion of sound but more importantly it gets a nice uptick in bass definition and texture using some proper amplification. To my ears it is difficult to hear the Force 1 using a weaker source after you hear it properly powered. It goes from good sound to euphoric with amplification and that is why I highly recommend throwing some power in the mix with these.

Overall
The SuperTFZ Force1 is indeed a force to be reckoned with. It is easy to overlook this particular model as there are so many compelling products being pushed out of China at the price range. I am personally guilty of overlooking the TFZ brand. These guys have made so many dynamic IEMs that look similarly. I pretty much had no inclination of trying one out as I figured it must be yet another average sounding IEM, until I heard these. How surprised was I when these turned out to be one of the best dynamic based IEMs at the price point that I have ever heard. In fact I will go as far to say I am fairly certain these will easily compete if not just sound better than most dynamic IEMs being sold anywhere close to this price range

The sound quality is much better than you would imagine. I have owned and heard numerous sub $100 IEMs and done reviews for some of the best in the industry. The Dunu Titan S comes to mind. Pound for pound the Force1 is right there with the heavy weights in single dynamic land. These aren’t going to be a giant killer by any means, but they do have a properly complete broad nicely resolving tight sound presentation that is highly enjoyable for any genre of music. Being versatile is huge in my book toward greatness and the Force 1 is just this. When amplified they have no business being sold at the $79 price point. No matter how much an earphone costs, if the sound does not immerse you into your music then it's just not good enough to throw in your ears. The Force1s are clearly worthy. Thanks for taking the time to read. Happy listening always.

Optimized Force1 IFI Gryphon+ ISN G4 in balanced+Force1+JVC Spiral Dot +++