This unit was graciously provided to me by Penon Audio for review purposes, as I expressed great praise in the TFZ Series 5 several months back. Big ups to them for fast and courteous responses, as well as impressive shipping speeds! They are available for purchase for $99.
I just wanted to add that this review is entirely my own opinion -- my perception of sound can vary differently from yours, or any other reviewer. My sensitivity to treble may be greater or lesser than yours. My preference for sound is a relatively balanced FR with impactful bass, forward upper mids, and an airy extensive treble.
Update; The TFZ Kings have been updated to have removable 2-pin cables and the price remains the same. Bravo! These are exceptional for the price regardless of fixed cables, but now they're made even better.
Introduction
The TFZ King piqued my interest immediately -- I did enjoy the TFZ Series 5 as a bass-oriented fun earphone. However, its downfalls were mainly its less-than-airy treble, as well as what many would call somewhat overbearing bass. I noticed these new Exclusive Kings were listed to be a "balanced and detailed" sound, with new graphene dual drivers. Descriptions straight from the manufacturer should be taken with a grain of salt, so I've been GP'ing these for a few days to report my findings.
The packaging really reminded me of a cologne or perfume. On the inside, you can find a TFZ pamphlet, the earphones, a bag of tips / accessories, and warranty card. Though I do really like the white silicone tips that come with the Kings, the foam tips are an absolute nightmare (more on this in the sound section). Packaging is nothing out of the ordinary, though everything is laid out in an easy to access format.
Underneath the plastic tray you will find the tips (2 foam sets, S/M/L white silicone), ear hooks, and wire clip.
The color this time is a clear turquoise blue shell, completely uniform and free of bubbles. Looks great, though possibly too colorful for some. The faceplate is actually metal now -- it is a matching reflective turquoise, with an iridescent purple ring. The metal faceplate definitely increased the weight from the previous generation. Unfortunately, the cable is still fixed with the same mechanism and design. This time it is encased in silver / clear, braided as a standard 4-core cable. It feels decent, though not the most supple -- time will tell whether it is subject to greening or not.
The jack is large and rectangular, and I have to take my LG V20 out of its case to plug in the TFZ Kings.
SOUND
First impression was that it was brighter and leaner than expected. Considering it shares the same shell as the Series X, I was expecting that bassy, thick sound. Instead, the overall sound feels very upper-mid and low treble oriented, with deep-reaching bass that never overpowers. I wouldn't call the sound too v-shaped either: to my ears, there sounds to be a bit less bass than shown in the graph.
Bass
Bass is slightly faster than your typical dynamic driver -- not balanced armature fast, but above average indeed. It's also not as textured as could be, but still rumbles heavily when called for. One thing I really love is that the bass rarely interferes with anything else in the spectrum, as it feels separated from the midrange (this can't be said for many budget IEMs). E: After a long period of listening, I find that the bass does match the graph above and it does have heavy subbass rumble. It still doesn't overshadow anything else, but can make the lower midrange feel thin and recessed.
Mids
The midrange is solated from the bass, with very little to no bleed. Lower midrange is laid back, counterbalanced by a clearly emphasized upper midrange. Female vocals sound forward and lively, chock full of details and bite. Male vocals don't seem to suffer too greatly. The lower midrange thinness sometimes causes vocals, both male and female, to sound nasally and choked out. The reason the midrange impresses me, though tuned somewhat typically, is that the imaging feels slightly three dimensional. Only two other IEMs I've tried so far have left a significant impression on imaging -- the UM Miracle, and the Andromeda. The TFZ King sort of has this directional feel as well to a lesser extent. Admittedly, it is nowhere near as good as the Miracle / Andromeda in that case, but clearly better than most. There is a slight forward and backward dimension added to the image, which is a definitely cool feeling.
Treble
The treble is divisive. Some may love it for this, and some may rule it out completely. The lower treble is energetic, possibly too strident for those sensitive to this frequency range. If you are sensitive to treble, this is a no-go. But if you're a fan of that borderline tingly, energetic treble, you will dig the sound of the Kings. I can definitely reach sufficient, slightly above normal listening levels without any pain but it can become piercing on higher volumes. However, a benefit of this is that I find these very good, exceptionally good, for low-volume listening. I can hear everything I need to at a lower than average volume, without feeling I'm missing anything -- no detail lost!
I really like these. In fact, I love them. These aren't first impressions either, as my first impressions were actually kind of negative due to the unexpected brightness. For those who joined the drop for $69.99, you are in for a treat (given you can handle mid-high frequencies). The treble on these is much more refined over the TFZ Series 5, and it doesn't sound as muddled / closed in due to the more tame bass response. Call me insane, but I spent a solid hour A/B'ing these with the Campfires the other day and was kind of going insane about it.
With the included white foam tips, the treble is subdued, the midrange is distant and hollow, and bass is not really increased by that much. Absolutely unlistenable -- I'd rather listen to it without tips than with the included foam tips. Campfire foam tips tend to work well on decreasing treble without screwing over the midrange too hard.
This is a true audiophile budget IEM -- no new toy syndrome here. Treble may be too energetic for some, and lower midrange can cause vocals to sound a little thin at times. Bass is not overpowering this time, as it is nicely controlled and tame. Noticeably above average imaging and separation for the price tag.
COMPARISONS
A good comparison to make is to the Pinnacle P1. This is near as good if not better in some ways (and cheaper), to my ears. If you can handle and enjoy the treble of the P1, you also will likely be a fan of these. These have a smidge more low treble though, so keep that in mind. This can sound artificial when coming from the P1. The upper midrange is also boosted, but the P1 has a strange hole in the treble that really toyed with the imaging IMO. Vocals on the King sound a bit clearer, as if a thin veil (meta I know) is lifted. Bass feels more controlled on the King, with about the same quantity if not a bit less. P1 feels to rumble more. soundstage on the P1 is larger, but imaging is hazier and less pinpoint three dimensional.
The Oriveti Basic and TFZ King couldn't be more different. The Basic is very bass-oriented and warm tilted, while the TFZ King is more of a v-shape with solid emphasis on the brighter regions. Both are very good IEMs overall depending on the user's preference. The Basic's subbass is more rumbly and textured than the TFZ King, but can sometimes be overwhelming and sound loose. The King's bass is much tighter and faster. The Basic's midrange sounds more natural and organic, full of warmth. The King's midrange is thinner and more detailed in the upper frequencies, sounding much sharper with female vocals. Treble on the Basic is laid-back and dark, while the King is energetic and sharp. Air is definitely greater on the TFZ Kings.
I spent a bit of time A/B'ing the Campfire Andromeda and TFZ Kings. Though it is a bit embarrassing to say, the tuning is somewhat similar. There's no question that the Campfire Andromeda is superior in nearly all categories, as the detail retrieval, imaging, soundstage, and tonality are all on a higher level. However, the TFZ Kings sound similar on first listen. Bass quantity is more or less the same, while Andromeda's feels a bit deeper-reaching. Midrange notes are thicker and more natural on the Andromedas in comparison to the Kings. However upper midrange on the Kings seems to be slightly more forward and less refined. Both are categorically bright earphones, but the Kings are a bit harsher and more strident on the treble. Andromedas have noticeably more extension and sparkle. Basically, imagine the Kings with thicker midrange, smoother + airier treble, and you basically have a budget Andromeda -- no, it's not an Andromeda killer. But if you like the tuning, this comes somewhat close.
OVERALL
Packaging & Accessories: 4 / 5
Build Quality & Design: 4.2 / 5
Sound Impressions: 4.8 / 5
Value: 4.8 / 5
Overall: 4.7 / 5
I kid you not when I say that this is a great IEM. It has a mature and musical tuning. Bass is never overbearing, and midrange cuts through cleanly underneath a sky of energetic treble. Wonderful low to mid volume listening, no details lost. Only real issue I can think of is the sometimes thin tonality of the midrange. Treble may also be too bright for those sensitive, though whether or not it is an issue varies from individual to individual. Fixed cables are kind of a shame on an otherwise stellar audiophile IEM at an entry-level budget. Update; The TFZ Kings have been updated to have removable 2-pin cables and the price remains the same. Bravo! These are exceptional for the price regardless of fixed cables, but now they're made even better.
I just wanted to add that this review is entirely my own opinion -- my perception of sound can vary differently from yours, or any other reviewer. My sensitivity to treble may be greater or lesser than yours. My preference for sound is a relatively balanced FR with impactful bass, forward upper mids, and an airy extensive treble.
Update; The TFZ Kings have been updated to have removable 2-pin cables and the price remains the same. Bravo! These are exceptional for the price regardless of fixed cables, but now they're made even better.
Introduction
The TFZ King piqued my interest immediately -- I did enjoy the TFZ Series 5 as a bass-oriented fun earphone. However, its downfalls were mainly its less-than-airy treble, as well as what many would call somewhat overbearing bass. I noticed these new Exclusive Kings were listed to be a "balanced and detailed" sound, with new graphene dual drivers. Descriptions straight from the manufacturer should be taken with a grain of salt, so I've been GP'ing these for a few days to report my findings.
The packaging really reminded me of a cologne or perfume. On the inside, you can find a TFZ pamphlet, the earphones, a bag of tips / accessories, and warranty card. Though I do really like the white silicone tips that come with the Kings, the foam tips are an absolute nightmare (more on this in the sound section). Packaging is nothing out of the ordinary, though everything is laid out in an easy to access format.
Underneath the plastic tray you will find the tips (2 foam sets, S/M/L white silicone), ear hooks, and wire clip.
The color this time is a clear turquoise blue shell, completely uniform and free of bubbles. Looks great, though possibly too colorful for some. The faceplate is actually metal now -- it is a matching reflective turquoise, with an iridescent purple ring. The metal faceplate definitely increased the weight from the previous generation. Unfortunately, the cable is still fixed with the same mechanism and design. This time it is encased in silver / clear, braided as a standard 4-core cable. It feels decent, though not the most supple -- time will tell whether it is subject to greening or not.
The jack is large and rectangular, and I have to take my LG V20 out of its case to plug in the TFZ Kings.
SOUND
First impression was that it was brighter and leaner than expected. Considering it shares the same shell as the Series X, I was expecting that bassy, thick sound. Instead, the overall sound feels very upper-mid and low treble oriented, with deep-reaching bass that never overpowers. I wouldn't call the sound too v-shaped either: to my ears, there sounds to be a bit less bass than shown in the graph.
Bass
Bass is slightly faster than your typical dynamic driver -- not balanced armature fast, but above average indeed. It's also not as textured as could be, but still rumbles heavily when called for. One thing I really love is that the bass rarely interferes with anything else in the spectrum, as it feels separated from the midrange (this can't be said for many budget IEMs). E: After a long period of listening, I find that the bass does match the graph above and it does have heavy subbass rumble. It still doesn't overshadow anything else, but can make the lower midrange feel thin and recessed.
Mids
The midrange is solated from the bass, with very little to no bleed. Lower midrange is laid back, counterbalanced by a clearly emphasized upper midrange. Female vocals sound forward and lively, chock full of details and bite. Male vocals don't seem to suffer too greatly. The lower midrange thinness sometimes causes vocals, both male and female, to sound nasally and choked out. The reason the midrange impresses me, though tuned somewhat typically, is that the imaging feels slightly three dimensional. Only two other IEMs I've tried so far have left a significant impression on imaging -- the UM Miracle, and the Andromeda. The TFZ King sort of has this directional feel as well to a lesser extent. Admittedly, it is nowhere near as good as the Miracle / Andromeda in that case, but clearly better than most. There is a slight forward and backward dimension added to the image, which is a definitely cool feeling.
Treble
The treble is divisive. Some may love it for this, and some may rule it out completely. The lower treble is energetic, possibly too strident for those sensitive to this frequency range. If you are sensitive to treble, this is a no-go. But if you're a fan of that borderline tingly, energetic treble, you will dig the sound of the Kings. I can definitely reach sufficient, slightly above normal listening levels without any pain but it can become piercing on higher volumes. However, a benefit of this is that I find these very good, exceptionally good, for low-volume listening. I can hear everything I need to at a lower than average volume, without feeling I'm missing anything -- no detail lost!
I really like these. In fact, I love them. These aren't first impressions either, as my first impressions were actually kind of negative due to the unexpected brightness. For those who joined the drop for $69.99, you are in for a treat (given you can handle mid-high frequencies). The treble on these is much more refined over the TFZ Series 5, and it doesn't sound as muddled / closed in due to the more tame bass response. Call me insane, but I spent a solid hour A/B'ing these with the Campfires the other day and was kind of going insane about it.
With the included white foam tips, the treble is subdued, the midrange is distant and hollow, and bass is not really increased by that much. Absolutely unlistenable -- I'd rather listen to it without tips than with the included foam tips. Campfire foam tips tend to work well on decreasing treble without screwing over the midrange too hard.
This is a true audiophile budget IEM -- no new toy syndrome here. Treble may be too energetic for some, and lower midrange can cause vocals to sound a little thin at times. Bass is not overpowering this time, as it is nicely controlled and tame. Noticeably above average imaging and separation for the price tag.
COMPARISONS
A good comparison to make is to the Pinnacle P1. This is near as good if not better in some ways (and cheaper), to my ears. If you can handle and enjoy the treble of the P1, you also will likely be a fan of these. These have a smidge more low treble though, so keep that in mind. This can sound artificial when coming from the P1. The upper midrange is also boosted, but the P1 has a strange hole in the treble that really toyed with the imaging IMO. Vocals on the King sound a bit clearer, as if a thin veil (meta I know) is lifted. Bass feels more controlled on the King, with about the same quantity if not a bit less. P1 feels to rumble more. soundstage on the P1 is larger, but imaging is hazier and less pinpoint three dimensional.
The Oriveti Basic and TFZ King couldn't be more different. The Basic is very bass-oriented and warm tilted, while the TFZ King is more of a v-shape with solid emphasis on the brighter regions. Both are very good IEMs overall depending on the user's preference. The Basic's subbass is more rumbly and textured than the TFZ King, but can sometimes be overwhelming and sound loose. The King's bass is much tighter and faster. The Basic's midrange sounds more natural and organic, full of warmth. The King's midrange is thinner and more detailed in the upper frequencies, sounding much sharper with female vocals. Treble on the Basic is laid-back and dark, while the King is energetic and sharp. Air is definitely greater on the TFZ Kings.
I spent a bit of time A/B'ing the Campfire Andromeda and TFZ Kings. Though it is a bit embarrassing to say, the tuning is somewhat similar. There's no question that the Campfire Andromeda is superior in nearly all categories, as the detail retrieval, imaging, soundstage, and tonality are all on a higher level. However, the TFZ Kings sound similar on first listen. Bass quantity is more or less the same, while Andromeda's feels a bit deeper-reaching. Midrange notes are thicker and more natural on the Andromedas in comparison to the Kings. However upper midrange on the Kings seems to be slightly more forward and less refined. Both are categorically bright earphones, but the Kings are a bit harsher and more strident on the treble. Andromedas have noticeably more extension and sparkle. Basically, imagine the Kings with thicker midrange, smoother + airier treble, and you basically have a budget Andromeda -- no, it's not an Andromeda killer. But if you like the tuning, this comes somewhat close.
OVERALL
Packaging & Accessories: 4 / 5
Build Quality & Design: 4.2 / 5
Sound Impressions: 4.8 / 5
Value: 4.8 / 5
Overall: 4.7 / 5
I kid you not when I say that this is a great IEM. It has a mature and musical tuning. Bass is never overbearing, and midrange cuts through cleanly underneath a sky of energetic treble. Wonderful low to mid volume listening, no details lost. Only real issue I can think of is the sometimes thin tonality of the midrange. Treble may also be too bright for those sensitive, though whether or not it is an issue varies from individual to individual. Fixed cables are kind of a shame on an otherwise stellar audiophile IEM at an entry-level budget. Update; The TFZ Kings have been updated to have removable 2-pin cables and the price remains the same. Bravo! These are exceptional for the price regardless of fixed cables, but now they're made even better.