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TKZK Ouranus
- Added by Zerstorer_GOhren
- Create date
Berry108
New Head-Fier
Pros: Great engaging sound
Relatively balanced sounding
Amazing build quality
No harshness
Snug fit(subjective)
Great non-obtrusive cable
Relatively balanced sounding
Amazing build quality
No harshness
Snug fit(subjective)
Great non-obtrusive cable
Cons: The protruding wing can be uncomfortable to some
Somewhat boxy sounding in the Z-axis
Not much included accessories(subjective)
Somewhat boxy sounding in the Z-axis
Not much included accessories(subjective)
๐ป๐ฒ๐๐ฒ ๐ถ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐น๐๐๐๐๐: ๐ฏ๐๐๐ ๐ฌ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ป๐ ๐น๐๐๐๐ ๐ป๐๐ ๐ฏ๐๐๐๐๐๐?
|| ๐๐ง๐ญ๐ซ๐จ๐๐ฎ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ||
TKZK has been a brand in the budget Chi-fi space for quite a while now, but is overshadowed by other releases from more known brands. Today we'll get to try the new Ouranos by TKZK priced at around the $50 range.
Named after the god of heaven in Greek mythology, sporting a tried and trusted dynamic driver and a resin build, will the Ouranos pierce through the competition and give TKZK the spotlight in this competitive price range?
|| ๐๐ถ๐๐ฐ๐น๐ฎ๐ถ๐บ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ||
** ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ง๐ค๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ Linsoul Audio ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ข๐ซ ๐๐ข๐ฃ๐ข ๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐๐ซ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐๐ซ๐จ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐ ๐ข๐ฏ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฆ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐จ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ญ๐๐ฌ๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ฌ๐๐ญ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ญ ๐จ๐ ๐ ๐ญ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐ ๐ซ๐จ๐ฎ๐ฉ. ๐๐ข๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐๐ก๐๐๐ค ๐จ๐ฎ๐ญ ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ซ๐๐ฏ๐ข๐๐ฐ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐จ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ซ ๐๐ซ๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฅ๐๐ฌ ๐จ๐ง ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฌ๐ข๐ญ๐ ๐๐ญ: ๐๐ฎ๐ฉ๐ก๐จ๐ง๐ข๐๐ซ๐๐ฏ๐ข๐๐ฐ๐ฌ.๐๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฌ๐ฉ๐จ๐ญ.๐๐จ๐ฆ **
| ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ธ๐ฎ๐ด๐ถ๐ป๐ด |
It comes with a no-fuss compact box that shows the branding and the product name all throughout.
| ๐จ๐ป๐ฏ๐ผ๐ ๐ถ๐ป๐ด & ๐๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ |
Upon opening the box, the IEMs themselves immediately greet you and is encased in dense foam for protection. Underneath the foam is a another small white box pertaining the remaining included items and accessories.
It comes with a felt pouch containing the included cable and an adequate amount of included eartips that should cater your size.
No complex contraptions for opening the box present, just a simple sliding mechanism.
๐๐ฉ๐๐ข ๐ฝ๐ง๐๐๐ ๐๐ค๐ฌ๐ฃ:
Paperwork
Ouranos Driver Shells
1.2m Silver-plated 2 pin cable
Felt pouch
A few eartips
| ๐๐๐ถ๐น๐ฑ & ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ณ๐ถ๐ด๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป |
Sporting a mineral-esque design on a black base with hints of gold accents on the face plate with TKZK branding on both drivers. It follows the universal fit form factor but with a quite substantial wing that others like me find uncomfortable.
The Ouranos is made out of 3D-printed resin that feels high quality with a surprising amount of heft despite being made out of resin at this price point. It feels nice at hand and not too hefty that it weighs your ear down.
It is composed of a 10mm dynamic driver that should deliver proven and tested sound performance due to the prominence of how good dynamic drivers can be.
| ๐๐๐ผ๐น๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป |
It isolates passively as any other IEM Iโve tried. Still better to use ANC if youโre after total depletion of outside noise as this can only go as far as passive noise canceling can
| ๐๐ผ๐บ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ |
The Ouranos fits me well with its grooves and curves akin to the universal fit of other resin-based IEMs but I do tend to feel a pain after an hour or so because of the protruding wing.
**๐๐จ๐๐ ๐ค๐ฃ ๐ฉ๐๐ ๐๐๐จ๐๐๐ฃ ๐1 ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐ช๐ง๐ ๐๐ก๐๐๐ฉ๐ง๐ค๐ฃ๐๐๐จ ๐ผ๐ซ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ฟ๐ค๐ฃ๐๐ก๐ ๐ฌ๐๐ฉ๐ ๐๐ค๐ค๐ฃ๐๐ง๐ค๐ฅ ๐๐ฅ๐ง๐๐ฃ๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐จ(๐๐๐๐๐ช๐ข)**
|| ๐ฆ๐ผ๐๐ป๐ฑ ||
The closest I can describe the Ouranos is a more engaging/exciting LETSHOUER Galileo with less exceptional mids. This can cater to a person who finds the Galileo quite boring and wants something more engaging and is okay with sacrificing the mids and it comes cheaper too.
| ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฎ๐ฏ๐ถ๐น๐ถ๐๐ |
These are pretty easily driven to listenable volume so no powerful dacs/amps specifically required
| ๐๐ฎ๐๐ |
Subbass is present but not too overbearing with an ample texture and grit. Midbass has a body and is quite punchy with minimal bleed. A great performance by balancing quantity and quality along with control.
| ๐ ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ |
Mids take a step back in the playback but are not drowned by other competing sounds with nice vocal performance from male vocals. Vocals on both male and female voices has voice but male singers do tend to be a bit more present. No thin sounds on the mids are present despite not taking the spotlight.
| ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐ |
These have good highs with very nice extension and air to avoid feeling or sounding choked and are very engaging. Details are adequate without leaving anything out and no harshness or peaking present here which makes it a great somewhat inoffensive set. Sibilance is also almost non-existent here.
| ๐ง๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ต๐ป๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น๐ถ๐๐ถ๐ฒ๐ |
Layering is great with imaging, but I do feel that this set is quite boxy in terms of the staging that it sounds and feels that sound doesn't go that much in the Z-axis. But that doesnโt retract from its ability to pinpoint sounds during playback
|| ๐๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ ||
I must say that this set is really like the LETSHOUER Galileo but with enough distinguishable differences to make it stand out like being more energetic and engaging along with a cheaper asking price point.
With very little issues, will this replace the spot in my heart that Galileo occupies? No, but I do think that this set is capable enough to stand right next to it. This will definitely be a set Iโd gladly recommend to those who have their wants aligned with what this set offers
|| ๐๐ง๐ญ๐ซ๐จ๐๐ฎ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ||
TKZK has been a brand in the budget Chi-fi space for quite a while now, but is overshadowed by other releases from more known brands. Today we'll get to try the new Ouranos by TKZK priced at around the $50 range.
Named after the god of heaven in Greek mythology, sporting a tried and trusted dynamic driver and a resin build, will the Ouranos pierce through the competition and give TKZK the spotlight in this competitive price range?
|| ๐๐ถ๐๐ฐ๐น๐ฎ๐ถ๐บ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ||
- I donโt consider myself as an audiophile or an enthusiast, therefore the terminology and the overall review will be more mainstream.
- We prefer to keep our reviews simple without too much confusing lingo and terminologies
- This review set is a part of a review tour and was sent free of charge in exchange for an honest review. There is no material or financial incentive for us to do this review. We guarantee no exchange has been done by both parties to influence or sway our opinions on this product.
- My thoughts and opinions are of my own. My experience will entirely differ from everybody else. The contents of this review should not be considered factual as this hobby heavily leans on subjectivity. YMMV.
** ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ง๐ค๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ Linsoul Audio ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ข๐ซ ๐๐ข๐ฃ๐ข ๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐๐ซ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐๐ซ๐จ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐ ๐ข๐ฏ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฆ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐จ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ญ๐๐ฌ๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ฌ๐๐ญ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ญ ๐จ๐ ๐ ๐ญ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐ ๐ซ๐จ๐ฎ๐ฉ. ๐๐ข๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐๐ก๐๐๐ค ๐จ๐ฎ๐ญ ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ซ๐๐ฏ๐ข๐๐ฐ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐จ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ซ ๐๐ซ๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฅ๐๐ฌ ๐จ๐ง ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฌ๐ข๐ญ๐ ๐๐ญ: ๐๐ฎ๐ฉ๐ก๐จ๐ง๐ข๐๐ซ๐๐ฏ๐ข๐๐ฐ๐ฌ.๐๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฌ๐ฉ๐จ๐ญ.๐๐จ๐ฆ **
| ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ธ๐ฎ๐ด๐ถ๐ป๐ด |
It comes with a no-fuss compact box that shows the branding and the product name all throughout.
| ๐จ๐ป๐ฏ๐ผ๐ ๐ถ๐ป๐ด & ๐๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ |
Upon opening the box, the IEMs themselves immediately greet you and is encased in dense foam for protection. Underneath the foam is a another small white box pertaining the remaining included items and accessories.
It comes with a felt pouch containing the included cable and an adequate amount of included eartips that should cater your size.
No complex contraptions for opening the box present, just a simple sliding mechanism.
๐๐ฉ๐๐ข ๐ฝ๐ง๐๐๐ ๐๐ค๐ฌ๐ฃ:
Paperwork
Ouranos Driver Shells
1.2m Silver-plated 2 pin cable
Felt pouch
A few eartips
| ๐๐๐ถ๐น๐ฑ & ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ณ๐ถ๐ด๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป |
Sporting a mineral-esque design on a black base with hints of gold accents on the face plate with TKZK branding on both drivers. It follows the universal fit form factor but with a quite substantial wing that others like me find uncomfortable.
The Ouranos is made out of 3D-printed resin that feels high quality with a surprising amount of heft despite being made out of resin at this price point. It feels nice at hand and not too hefty that it weighs your ear down.
It is composed of a 10mm dynamic driver that should deliver proven and tested sound performance due to the prominence of how good dynamic drivers can be.
| ๐๐๐ผ๐น๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป |
It isolates passively as any other IEM Iโve tried. Still better to use ANC if youโre after total depletion of outside noise as this can only go as far as passive noise canceling can
| ๐๐ผ๐บ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ |
The Ouranos fits me well with its grooves and curves akin to the universal fit of other resin-based IEMs but I do tend to feel a pain after an hour or so because of the protruding wing.
**๐๐จ๐๐ ๐ค๐ฃ ๐ฉ๐๐ ๐๐๐จ๐๐๐ฃ ๐1 ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐ช๐ง๐ ๐๐ก๐๐๐ฉ๐ง๐ค๐ฃ๐๐๐จ ๐ผ๐ซ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ฟ๐ค๐ฃ๐๐ก๐ ๐ฌ๐๐ฉ๐ ๐๐ค๐ค๐ฃ๐๐ง๐ค๐ฅ ๐๐ฅ๐ง๐๐ฃ๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐จ(๐๐๐๐๐ช๐ข)**
|| ๐ฆ๐ผ๐๐ป๐ฑ ||
The closest I can describe the Ouranos is a more engaging/exciting LETSHOUER Galileo with less exceptional mids. This can cater to a person who finds the Galileo quite boring and wants something more engaging and is okay with sacrificing the mids and it comes cheaper too.
| ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฎ๐ฏ๐ถ๐น๐ถ๐๐ |
These are pretty easily driven to listenable volume so no powerful dacs/amps specifically required
| ๐๐ฎ๐๐ |
Subbass is present but not too overbearing with an ample texture and grit. Midbass has a body and is quite punchy with minimal bleed. A great performance by balancing quantity and quality along with control.
| ๐ ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ |
Mids take a step back in the playback but are not drowned by other competing sounds with nice vocal performance from male vocals. Vocals on both male and female voices has voice but male singers do tend to be a bit more present. No thin sounds on the mids are present despite not taking the spotlight.
| ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐ |
These have good highs with very nice extension and air to avoid feeling or sounding choked and are very engaging. Details are adequate without leaving anything out and no harshness or peaking present here which makes it a great somewhat inoffensive set. Sibilance is also almost non-existent here.
| ๐ง๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ต๐ป๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น๐ถ๐๐ถ๐ฒ๐ |
Layering is great with imaging, but I do feel that this set is quite boxy in terms of the staging that it sounds and feels that sound doesn't go that much in the Z-axis. But that doesnโt retract from its ability to pinpoint sounds during playback
|| ๐๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ ||
I must say that this set is really like the LETSHOUER Galileo but with enough distinguishable differences to make it stand out like being more energetic and engaging along with a cheaper asking price point.
With very little issues, will this replace the spot in my heart that Galileo occupies? No, but I do think that this set is capable enough to stand right next to it. This will definitely be a set Iโd gladly recommend to those who have their wants aligned with what this set offers
Redcarmoose
Headphoneus Supremus
Pros: Looksโฆ..these are truly lookersโฆ..they fit well too
Relatively smooth midrange and treble areas
An interesting sound signature and not boring at all, but nothing different or totally unique
Smooth
Friendly
Really a consumer tuned IEM
Anti-sibilance for miles and miles
Lush
Relatively smooth midrange and treble areas
An interesting sound signature and not boring at all, but nothing different or totally unique
Smooth
Friendly
Really a consumer tuned IEM
Anti-sibilance for miles and miles
Lush
Cons: Signature held-back by the TKZK Ouranos cable
Comes with included wrong type of cable which muddies-up the whole signature completely
Less detail/control in the sub-bass/mid-bass than whatโs normally found at price-point with included cable
Ever so slightly nasal (with any cable)
Comes with included wrong type of cable which muddies-up the whole signature completely
Less detail/control in the sub-bass/mid-bass than whatโs normally found at price-point with included cable
Ever so slightly nasal (with any cable)
TKZK Ouranos
10mm Carbon Nanotube Dynamic Driver Headphones In-Ear Earphone
Probably the first question that comes to mind is if TKZK is really an off-shoot of TINHIFI or not. Because if it is much of this style of IEM makes perfect sense. Sonically and physically this is TINHIFI spreading their wings and offering something (just slightly) unique. Of the 8 TINHIFI IEMs Iโve received for review over the years, this is (slightly) different. Well, ya dummy itโs made by a different company? It is made by a different company yet they (almost) choose the identical square box? Except this time they angled the lid to throw us off. Still the inclusion of an IEM pouchโฆโฆhaha. Only this time the pouch was a light blue velour and could in fact double as a polishing cloth. The tips, the tips look identical to TINHIFI, then comes the brown anodization on the metal cable materialโฆโฆtotally TINHIFI, and the actual (brown) wire? Hmmm, except the soundโฆโฆ..no this is a departure and maybe the exact reason for the rebranding. They went for a slightly fuzzy deep endโฆโฆ.you know the kind that they laugh about in the (sound) engineering lab.
It should be noted that TKZKโs first headphone (the 1DD/1BA TKZK โWaveโ) came out in early January of 2022โฆโฆ.and strangely their Twitter page has only stuff about the Wave release and TINHIFI advertisements? Hmm?
https://twitter.com/TKZK_earphone
Maybe they just named the brand TKZK so there is no confusion to this sound being compared to TINHIFI. Now do you know why this makes even more sense? I like the bass difference here, and the build, and the lookโฆโฆ.oh? And the fit, the fit is truly incredible. Andโฆโฆ.once I switched from my bass-centric WM1Z to the full-on mid-centric Sony WM1A (and different cable) it all came together. Meaning I understood where they were going with the total soundโฆ.and truly, itโs great, still only 3.5 stars great. Does the Ouranos bring anything new or different to the table? Why would you even want to acquire it in the first place? Letโs find out, shall we?
Product name: Ouranos
Product Type: In-Ear Wired Headphones
Driver Type: Dynamic
Driver unit: 10MM new generation CNT unit
Frequency response: 10-20KHz
Rated power: 3mw
Sensitivity: 110ยฑ3db @1kHz< 0.126v
Impedance: 320ยฑ15%
Distortion: 1%@1kHz< 0.126V
Pin: 3.5mm gold-plated pin
Wire length: 1200mm
What is in the box:
Ouranos earphone (left+right)
6 Ear tips, 2 Large, 2 Medium and 2 Small
Cotton storage bag
1.2m silver-plated earphone cable
Summary:
The Ouranos IEM comes out at a time when the market is in-fact flooded with similar IEMs. Yet the sound is not at all boring, noโฆโฆitโs rather relaxing and smooth, making all your music warm and friendly. The looks are remarkable and will become appreciated the more you study them! Over all the total build is fantastic with metal nozzle-tip and a semi-custom shape, the handmade faceplate shows far above the asking price. Timbre is actually great except there is a slight overall nasal personality blanketing everything. The treble and midrange are uniform, complete and lush. The sub/mid-bass hold a reserved presence, there is a loss of definition and control with the included cable. With an aftermarket (silver/copper) cable the TKZK Ouranos shows definite improvements.
$55.00
https://www.linsoul.com/products/tkzk-ouranos
Linsoul website: https://www.linsoul.com/
Linsoul Aliexpress Store: https://ddaudio.aliexpress.com/store/2894006
Linsoul USA Amazon Store link: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=merchant-items&me=A267P2DT104U3C
Disclaimer:
I want to thank Kareena of Linsoul for the love and the TKZK Ouranos review sample.
Disclaimer:
These are one persons ideas and concepts, your results may vary.
Equipment Used:
Sony WM1Z Walkman DAP MrWalkman Firmware 3.5mm and 4.4mm
Sony WM1A Walkman DAP MrWalkman Firmware 3.5mm and 4.4mm
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
Shanling UA3 Dongle DAC/Amplifier 3.5mm and 4.4mm
Samsung Android Smartphone 3.5mm output
The Packaging:
Simple packaging shows the cotton pouch, the set of 6 ear-tips and cable. There is a small warranty card and manual too.
The build:
Coming in at only 4 grams a piece, they are the perfect weight. Closer inspection reveals absolutely zero markings on the semi-custom shape. There are stylized TKZK emblems emblazoned in small gold letters across the faceplate. Noticeable are two vents, one at the base of the nozzle and one (as seen in photos) on the side opposite from the nozzle. The faceplate finish is a first here at Redcarmoose Labs being there is no bevel to the faceplate edge. This creates a looking into water effect when staring down into the faceplate details. Under the submerged nameplate lays a collection of what appears to be blackened wood-fragments and copper-foil. Whatever the stuff is itโs dramatic and goes the extra mile to add drama to ownership. Meaning Iโve never experienced such faceplate handiwork, especially at this cost? The 0.78 2Pin receiver is flush with the side, and the metal nozzle offers both protection for the nozzle-screen as well as hold ear-tips on well. Really the Ouranos has no business being as nice as it is. If you were to casually ask your neighbor how much the Ouranos costs, he would not say under $60.00. The other great part of the build happens to be found in how the screen sits inside the nozzle opening. When in-fact itโs not a screen at all but a chrome shower head affair with holes put inside! All and all you can notice the extreme semi-custom build which moves forward to make the Ouranos one of the most comfortable IEMs I have come across this year, and itโs been a bunch. Of course fitment is a personal thing, yet the science behind this is arrived by the use of an ear-shape data base which goes ahead and shapes the 3D printed resin to allow the form factor to align that much betterโฆโฆ..thatโs even before the hand-sanding, hand-polishing begins.
Cable:
The external style of PVC jacket allows truly nice maneuverability in daily use. The actual ear-hooks arenโt too aggressive. The silver plated copper seems a correct balance to arrive at a cost balancing package. Itโs actually never revealed to be a copper build, but Iโm sure it is, that with a micron of two of silver to brighten up replay. And while the included cable is nice feeling (somehow) most of the sloppiness in bass was due to its use.
A change of cable:
Meaning I plopped on a $149.00 cable consisting of part pure silver stands and part copper stands and the bass areas were totally cleaned-up. This leaves possibly manufactures up to a dilemma, do you find a better cable for your retail IEM, are just hope your buyers experiment with cables? While this is not an authoritative low-end IEM anyway, it is dark and smooth, such wiggles in bass due to the included cable show that there is the option to really move the TKZK Ouranos forward into incredible territory. I canโt help but see the invention laboratory where engineers are doing all they can to make the TKZK Ouranos all it can be, then shot down in flames by the marketing department who are trying to meet a price/cost level and skimp on the cable. Only then (as the result of cable choice) to have the main issues the TKZK Ouranos is known for (community wise).....................the actual results of this cable placement.
Sound:
Such (cable) changes are not totally accepted by the masses. And I could go about my day dismissing the fact that anyone would be curious as to sound modification of an IEM with extra cables. I could write the same review youโre always going to read (with-out cable rolls) concerning the overall playback of the TKZK Ouranos IEM, but it wouldnโt be all I know, and the review wouldnโt be complete. In fact often cables donโt do much to enhance or correct a specific sound signature, but in this case cables made a world of difference. Also with lesser cost IEMs typically cable change-outs are never really that drastic. So in testing I went to another bright cable, only this time it was less bright and is probably considered a more generalized cable, where before I was using what would almost be considered a specialist cable; only one that works in special circumstances. And you know what I heardโฆโฆI heard more of the same tone that was described by the community about the TKZK Ouranos. And in a way that made this review easy because I could still talk about the general qualities of the TKZK Ouranos, yet explain that if they truly want to add to the tonal response that it will always be a tad nasal, except that there are avenues to clean-up the bass, yet deep inside of the bass, itโs still what it is, slightly all-over-the-place.
Bass:
Slightly all-over-the-place. Where in reality playback is typical of full-range DDs, in that the sub-bass and mid-bass are slightly rolled-off anyways. Yet here we are offered a darker IEM regardless of the bass tone. The bass is slightly slow in that it holds very little transient power. A dull front-edge and a dull fall-off. Added to that itโs not totally up-front either. Still regardless of all Iโve written, the TKZK Ouranos is not boring nor is its bass boring. All the tones are correct, there is just a bit of uncontrolled action with the included cable. And while the aftermarket cable did work on the midrange and treble, most of the benefits were in the bass department.
Midrange:
This is where 90% of all the musicality goes down, yep. While vocals are well separated and shown in relief against the back-drop, Iโve obviously heard the vocals better positioned. Yet the magic here is there truly is a separation and excitement with-in the instrumentation of the mids. Fun and fast imaging out to the exterior of the stage. But all and all itโs very average for the price asked.
Treble:
Probably cohesive and contained would be my words, if I only could choose a few? Those words hold both positive and negative connotations here. As thatโs how I view the playback, in that it has wonderful cohesive attributes, but at the same time stuff isnโt really projected anywhere and takes place within the confinements allowed. And while rolling back to the original included cable it seems there is added note-weight to be found, and even density to be admired inside of the treble notes..........though at the expense of the nasal tone added back in.
Conclusion:
While fun and colorful, some of the color is just thatโฆโฆ.color. Such an artifact seems to paint the entire frequency response. Yet there is still a lot to be admired hereโฆโฆโฆespecially if you need a low-cost but great looking all around performer, that fits well. What Iโm trying to say is despite the sonic shortcomings, the TKZK Ouranos is set-up for all day listening, even making strident tones found in your music smoothed-out. Lush, warm and inviting are the part of town we are visiting todayโฆโฆโฆโฆand itโs not boring here in this place. Nope, it is just before you plan on visiting my job is to fill you in on the weather. There is not exactly sun-shine in Ouranos todayโฆโฆthat or any day. More of an overcast yet warm environment, with a hazy cloud layer seemingly everywhere and all-the-time. The locals are friendly and have a great attitude, itโs also a place you may want to spend some time in, even overnight? Though I have to warn you tomorrow when you wake, the weather will again be much more of the sameโฆโฆwith hardly any change.
This is kinda how a view the TKZK Ouranos, as itโs not a bad place to visit, and not really boring at all, but you know how those towns go, they just areโฆand quite possibly the next town over will be much of the sameโฆโฆ.not a bad place, yet nothing out of the ordinary either. You can change the feel of the bass by adding a different cable and that takes care of a few concerns, yet the rest is still the rest, and while there is nothing really wrong with the playback, there may be a chance to find more excitement elsewhere? But the town is pretty, actually itโs downright gorgeous!
$55.00
https://www.linsoul.com/products/tkzk-ouranos
Last edited:
ATunner70
You write very well and go further than a lot of reviewers here and I would never try to discourage you however, in almost all your reviews I see your suggestion to swap the IEMS cables and that alone will change for so much better. How can you justify swapping a cable which costs 3 times the price of the IEM itself? Can you present studies, research material that can prove a cable will change the sound of this very low-cost IEM? I am not saying you do but I would be very concerned in misleading people around. I can only see a cable swap would change the Impedance and the sound, maybe bring a nice blink to your beloved IEMs as well. Other than that, I can only imagine you suffer from a chronical syndrome of placebo effect.
Redcarmoose
Your concerns are truly as old as the hobby of produced music. People have argued this subject forever, and you are speaking very well of one side. Iโm not sure of percentages of people who believe, but itโs a lot! While controversial, I hear what I hear and report about such findings in the pursuit of reporting truth. The subject of cables is an interesting one, and if you go back around past middle of last year I didnโt talk about cables at all. So this is actually a new thing in my journey. So just as much you donโt believe, I do.
cqtek
1000+ Head-Fier
Pros: Very accurate tuning that conjugates all bands in a smooth, detailed and clear way.
- Very good level of detail and resolution for the price.
- Good imaging.
- Controlled, but present and extended treble.
- Very comfortable and ergonomic.
- Excellent value for money.
- Very good level of detail and resolution for the price.
- Good imaging.
- Controlled, but present and extended treble.
- Very comfortable and ergonomic.
- Excellent value for money.
Cons: Excessive roughness of the bass can make them slightly out of control.
- Zippered case not included.
- Zippered case not included.
Introduction
TKZK seems to be a new brand from Dongguan, in China's Guangdong province. It has two models in its catalogue (Wave and Ouranos) and little public history behind them, it is not easy to find additional information on the internet. The model I am going to review here, called Ouranos, is priced at $55, while the Wave is $39. It is a semi-custom IEMS, printed in resin and polished by hand. The outer face uses carbon fibre dipped in rose gold to form its particular pattern. Inside it uses a 10mm dynamic driver, with a CNT (carbon nanotube) diaphragm and an N52 neodymium magnet. It is designed with dual cavities for more enveloping acoustics. The cable has a soft, durable PVC jacket and the wires are silver-plated. It has an impedance of 32ฮฉ and a sensitivity of 110dB. Next, let's see what other features these new IEMS have.
Specifications
Packaging
The TKTK Ouranos come in a small white cardboard box, with very little information on it. Its dimensions are 86x88x68mm. On the front side there is only the model name in the centre and the logo in the top left corner. On the back side there is the brand logo in the centre, the company name, logos of the certifications it complies with at the bottom, an EAN13 and a couple of QR. I would like to comment that the brand logo is a bit confusing, it is difficult to read, at first glance, TKZK. The K's look like an unclosed R. Also, they have a dot inside, what is it, an eye...? I can think of other comparisons, but I'll keep them to myself. In any case, it looks like TKZK and, once again, K and Z are present in the name of a brand. I guess there are more letters in the alphabet.
With the outer cardboard removed, the remaining box is black. It has the logo in the centre, in gold lettering. On the back side are the specifications, the frequency response graph, the brand name and the certifications and barcodes of the outer carton are repeated. Under the cover, the first thing you can see is the instruction manual. Then there is a foam mould containing the capsules. Finally, on the lower level, there is a small white box with the rest of the accessories. The complete contents are as follows:
The packaging is small and compact, which I like, there are no superfluous gimmicks. I also like the fact that the frequency response is included, so there are no surprises. It is true that the cable is soft and manageable. It comes with two sets of tips and a carrying bag, which is not the kind I prefer. But you can't ask for much more for the price.
Construction and Design
The TKZK Ouranos capsules have a semi-custom shape. They are made of black resin, 3D printed. The outer face is shaped like an equilateral triangle with very rounded corners. Under its surface you can see an irregular carbon fibre pattern dipped in rose gold. The brand name can be read in gold lettering on each capsule. They are relatively thick. Embedded in the border is the plastic piece containing the gold-plated, 2Pin 0.78mm connector. On the adjacent side there is a hole. The outer face is smooth and smooth, with a bulge at the end and a lighter bulge closer to the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece is metallic, silver-plated and has another hole near it, in the extension of the capsule towards them. It is 5.5mm long, has an inner diameter of 5.4mm, while the rim is 6mm. The grid is also made of the same material and is multi-perforated. All in all, it is a classic capsule, somewhat more rounded in shape, with a distinctive pattern on its outer face.
The cable has an aged copper colour, coated with soft PVC. It has over-ear guides made of a slightly stiffer plastic layer. It consists of two coiled strands. The sleeve of the 3.5mm SE gold-plated plug is metallic, cylindrical, depressed in the centre. It is thin and the smaller diameter at its centre is intended to make it easier to grip, but not enough. Its small and narrow size works against it. The splitter piece follows the same shape, shorter, with a larger diameter at the outlet than at the inlet. The pin is a cone that offers little resistance to the passage of the cable, so its function is not the best. The sleeve of the 2Pin connectors are cylinders with a grooved ring near the cable. There are R and L letters in white ink to differentiate the channel. The 2 pins are gold-plated and are mounted on a hard plastic translucent circular plate. There is a light grey velcro strap with the brand logo in white. All parts of the cable are metallic, in a matching colour to the cable. The cable is not bad, manageable, docile and soft. The plug is a bit thin and a bit slippery, even though it has fine grooves and the centre is narrower.
Adjustment and Ergonomics
The classic semi-spherical shape triumphs. The outer face is rounded, smooth and soft. The protrusion of the rim can become annoying after a few hours. The fit is firm, direct, there is no rotation. The mouthpieces are well designed for medium insertion, but their diameter may prevent it from being larger. Even, depending on the tips used, the fit may only be shallow. The angle is adequate and I have found no problem using my large foam-filled tips, which I make myself. With them, the sound is full and the isolation is remarkable. The over-ear guides are not annoying, thanks to their softness and low stiffness.
Sound
Profile
The profile of the TKZK Ouranos seems to follow the path of other successful IEMS in the same segment. Again, it is not a neutral profile, but it is within the parameters of balance and homogeneity. Again, much of its frequency response is within 10dB. You could call it a tiny w, with a relatively linear sub-bass and a fairly controlled mid-high emphasis. The difference lies in a roll-off start to the treble, something that detracts from its initial sparkle and liveliness. While I don't consider it to feel dark, it does fall into the group of soft IEMS, organic in nature, analogue in character and warm in accent.
Bass
The bass is relatively compact, with a good extension towards the LFOs. They have a slight tendency to leak slightly, especially in the sense of roughness or texture. In this case, this aspect is not as controlled and combined with a bit of colour in the mid-bass, it is enhanced in a way that loses a bit of rigour. However, this does give it a distinct bit of personality that can be pleasing. It may not come across as fully defined, but it gives a spicy, riotous edge to the electronic music. On the downside, it loses depth and sensory capacity, hence its colour remains to the right of a completely natural tonality. The dryness of the hit is average, but it can still be said to retain control and good recovery. My traditional very low frequency pure tone test reveals a classic behaviour of a current dynamic driver, characterised by the roughness I mentioned. The physicality and presence below 40Hz feels more limited, its behaviour is not as sensory and the oscillation is more vibratory than sonic. Above this value, things return to order and the reproduction gains in fidelity. When hitting compact drums, the energy level is not too high, although it copes quite well. For my taste, it lacks a bit of body, more impactful physical sensation, power and energy. A bit more punch in general. However, I can't complain about its performance with electronic music. On the other hand, the good thing is that it is not too invasive and its behaviour towards the low midrange is spot on.
Finally, in my other classic test with unfiltered bass passages and simultaneous bass lines, the Ouranos respond quite well, being able to follow the bass melodies without smearing and maintaining a good level of fidelity. In these cases it feels that it is not very dark or sensory and the ease of reproduction is based on generating a recognisable and relatively complex bass blanket, which is remarkable. However, the level of roughness in these cases, its relative lack of control, is often the point that can generate an ambivalent feeling towards its sonority. But I like it.
Mids
The beginning of the midrange is characterised by a gentle descent from the bass, something that gives the first half strength, physicality and body, without bleeding, veiling or muddiness until 1000 Hz or beyond. Admittedly, the entrance to the centre is not completely clean and there is a little warmth that carries over into this area. This is a fact that is usually pleasing to my ears, as long as this does not mean that the sound becomes cloying. And this is not the case here. The result is a well-represented first half, where the male voices have a middle distance, vigour, strength, though not a lush, surrounding body, which gives them a superior three-dimensionality. In this respect, they are simpler, which is logical for IEMS of this range. On the other hand, the ornamental richness, the nuances and details, make for a relatively rich and decisive performance. I don't miss a greater harmonic development, despite the softness of the treble. The tone is adequate, within that neutral/warm range, with no faults or sibilance. The level of definition is remarkable and the descriptive ability of the ensemble does not make me miss playing the music with other IEMS. In that respect, it is clear that these are not analytical IEMS, but there is enough transparency and separation to notice a good level of light and distinction between notes. There is no obvious cohesion and the notes have a thickness that makes them individual, but without losing musicality. A good compromise between naturalness, cleanliness and resolute competence.
In the second half there is a controlled enhancement at the entrance of the treble. It is somewhat short in comparison to that excitement which seeks exalted detail, vigour, luminosity or forced brilliance. The tuning does not seek that, but pursues a more dynamic clarity, which does not lose its composure, nor does it separate the fundamental from its ornaments indiscriminately, which is a good thing. It may be a little limited in force, but you can't always have everything. And perhaps that is the difference between this group of IEMS that navigate a similar FR. The struggle is there and everyone's taste will have the last word.
Treble
Despite all of the above: that initial cut in the first treble and the homogeneity of the amplitude of the whole FR, I find the initial treble punch commendable. There are always IEMS that are too controlled in this respect, whose sonority feels clearly limited, muted. This is not the case here. The initial sparkle, while not a prodigy of vertical and horizontal expansion, feels quite full. There is a good compromise between energy level and extension, which gives the sound a pleasing and stretched treble rigour in equal parts. The sound is natural, slightly muted, but satisfying, present, even engaging and surprisingly rich, within its obvious capabilities.
The top notes are medium to thin in thickness. They are not sharp or crisp, but there is a low-sparkle, but still felt brightness. This is noticeable in the midrange harmonics and in the level of detail.
The dynamic drivers increasingly extend their range and the airy feel exceeds the level of testimonial, by far. Quite good overall.
Soundstage, Separation
I would place the size of the scene above average. Although it is not very deep, it has a more remarkable height, with a patent laterality. It seems to me a more frontal approach, which acquires a certain ethereal level, due to the elevation of the notes. But, without reaching a very immersive or three-dimensional presentation. Again, the coherence between the three bands and the good tuning between mid-high and treble, gives the sound a remarkable grace in the representation of the details, being perceptible, even the smallest ones. A remarkable quality for an IEMS of its range and non-analytical tuning. All this is also thanks to its resolution, definition, dynamics, amount of air and, obviously, distance between elements and amount of separation. Very good.
Comparisons
TinHiFi T2 DLC 2022
Without a doubt, if there is a brand that moves like a fish in water in this price segment, it is none other than TinHiFi. And it proved it with its T2 DLC 2022 model, an IEMS currently priced at around $53. I still think that TinHiFi's latest models move around a similar tuning, with minor modifications in between. The TKZK Ouranos could be added to that group, because their FR is not very different from that of the DLC 2022. They just have a little more sub-bass and less extension in the first treble. The rest of the curve is really similar. But these two important differences are enough to clearly express the differences in the sound of both. But, before going into the sound, I will list the obvious physical differences. The Ouranos have a semi-custom shape and are made of resin. The DLCs have that traditional ballistic L-shaped, all-metal form. Comfort is superior on the TKZK. It's not that the DLCs are uncomfortable, but their fit is less perfect and more free-flowing.
In terms of accessories, both are about the same, but the DLCs' silver cable is thinner than the Ouranos', although the plug sleeve is larger and more useful.
Turning to sound, the Ouranos are subtly more sensitive. Their profile is warmer, deeper, with a higher bass presence. Or, depending on how you look at it, with a lower treble presence, offering a less bright sound, where bass can be more predominant. In the DLCs, the higher treble presence is noticeable, offering superior clarity and finesse. But when it comes to the bass, there are not so many differences. The Ouranos reach a lower level with more power and offer a more evident texture. The DLCs are more concise, better defined, but also drier and more immediate. The Ouranos offer a slightly bigger bass, taking up more space, with more physicality, volume and energy. But they also leave more resonance. It is here that the extra presence is noticeable. The DLCs have better technical ability, but less fun as well.
In the midrange, the Ouranos offer a warmer naturalness, a little more muted, but with a fair amount of detail. I find the timbre more sedate and pleasant, while the DLCs are more brightness-oriented, being a little warmer in the upper-mids. This adds a heightened sense of transparency, as well as a more obvious inclination to detail. That's not to say that Ouranos are less detailed. At the limit, they might be about the same, but in the DLCs, this one is more obvious and prominent, though it can also be more overwhelming. I have regarded the TinHiFi as a reference in this range, with a very well achieved and homogeneous neutral-slightly bright sound. Similarly, the Ouranos are like a warmer, softer version, possessing many of the virtues of the DLCs, but with a more neutral-subtly dark sound. And that's what you feel in the treble - there's more energy and lift in the DLCs, they're more crisp and explicit. On the other side, the Ouranos are softer and a bit more diffuse, less thin. The thickness of the notes in the DLCs is thinner, slimmer and sharper, offering a more analytical and cooler profile.
Scene-wise, I find more depth, body and laterality in the Ouranos, as well as that extra height. The thinner note feel makes the DLCs sound flatter. In contrast, the Ouranos seem more three-dimensional. For the same thickness of the DLC's notes, their separation is good. But the Ouranos don't lack resolution and know how to distance the elements by putting a dark background in between. The larger space of their image allows for a separation that seems more evident.
In the end, these are two great IEMS, it is clear that the inclination of each one towards a profile will reveal their preference for one or the other model. My tendency towards bass and a more corporeal midrange inclines me towards the Ouranos, winning by the slimmest of margins due to this personal bias.
Conclusion
As a first impression, I thought that the TKZK Ouranos were going to be one more in this tough and combative price range. Here, everyone will have their own kings and their own opinion will have the last word. But when it comes to judging IEMS, each reviewer has his or her own preferences and what may be white for some may be black for others. There is no such thing as neutrality in this sense. And that is the case here. Having tried these IEMS and compared them with other references in the range, I lean towards their more sedate sound in the high end, with a larger, more corporeal, deeper and rougher low end, a more physical, very detailed, resolving midrange and a remarkably descriptive, yet very controlled treble. It is true that the inoffensive sound can have many detractors. But I am glad to know that there is an economic aspect that adds a differential plus. In this case, that innocence does not imply a cohesive softness that limits other technical features. And that's why I find myself faced with a very good level of detail, resolution, definition, even scene and image. It's an opinion like any other, don't you think so?
Sources Used During the Analysis
Ratings
Purchase Link
You can read the full review in Spanish here
TKZK seems to be a new brand from Dongguan, in China's Guangdong province. It has two models in its catalogue (Wave and Ouranos) and little public history behind them, it is not easy to find additional information on the internet. The model I am going to review here, called Ouranos, is priced at $55, while the Wave is $39. It is a semi-custom IEMS, printed in resin and polished by hand. The outer face uses carbon fibre dipped in rose gold to form its particular pattern. Inside it uses a 10mm dynamic driver, with a CNT (carbon nanotube) diaphragm and an N52 neodymium magnet. It is designed with dual cavities for more enveloping acoustics. The cable has a soft, durable PVC jacket and the wires are silver-plated. It has an impedance of 32ฮฉ and a sensitivity of 110dB. Next, let's see what other features these new IEMS have.
Specifications
- Driver Type: 10mm dynamic driver with CNT (carbon nanotube) diaphragm and N52 neodymium magnet.
- Frequency Response: 10Hz-20kHz.
- Sensitivity: 110 ยฑ 3dB @ 1kHz 0.126V.
- Impedance: 32ฮฉ ยฑ 15%.
- Distortion Ratio: 1% @ 1kHz 0.126V
- Jack Connector: 3.5mm silver plated
- Capsule Connection Type: 2Pin 0.78mm
- Power rating: 3mW.
- Maximum Power: 5mW.
- Cable length: 1.2m.
Packaging
The TKTK Ouranos come in a small white cardboard box, with very little information on it. Its dimensions are 86x88x68mm. On the front side there is only the model name in the centre and the logo in the top left corner. On the back side there is the brand logo in the centre, the company name, logos of the certifications it complies with at the bottom, an EAN13 and a couple of QR. I would like to comment that the brand logo is a bit confusing, it is difficult to read, at first glance, TKZK. The K's look like an unclosed R. Also, they have a dot inside, what is it, an eye...? I can think of other comparisons, but I'll keep them to myself. In any case, it looks like TKZK and, once again, K and Z are present in the name of a brand. I guess there are more letters in the alphabet.
With the outer cardboard removed, the remaining box is black. It has the logo in the centre, in gold lettering. On the back side are the specifications, the frequency response graph, the brand name and the certifications and barcodes of the outer carton are repeated. Under the cover, the first thing you can see is the instruction manual. Then there is a foam mould containing the capsules. Finally, on the lower level, there is a small white box with the rest of the accessories. The complete contents are as follows:
- The two TKZK Ouranos capsules.
- One 2Pin 0.78mm cable.
- Three pairs of dark grey silicone tips, sizes SxMxL.
- Three pairs of grey silicone tips with red core, sizes SxMxL.
- One cloth bag for storage.
The packaging is small and compact, which I like, there are no superfluous gimmicks. I also like the fact that the frequency response is included, so there are no surprises. It is true that the cable is soft and manageable. It comes with two sets of tips and a carrying bag, which is not the kind I prefer. But you can't ask for much more for the price.
Construction and Design
The TKZK Ouranos capsules have a semi-custom shape. They are made of black resin, 3D printed. The outer face is shaped like an equilateral triangle with very rounded corners. Under its surface you can see an irregular carbon fibre pattern dipped in rose gold. The brand name can be read in gold lettering on each capsule. They are relatively thick. Embedded in the border is the plastic piece containing the gold-plated, 2Pin 0.78mm connector. On the adjacent side there is a hole. The outer face is smooth and smooth, with a bulge at the end and a lighter bulge closer to the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece is metallic, silver-plated and has another hole near it, in the extension of the capsule towards them. It is 5.5mm long, has an inner diameter of 5.4mm, while the rim is 6mm. The grid is also made of the same material and is multi-perforated. All in all, it is a classic capsule, somewhat more rounded in shape, with a distinctive pattern on its outer face.
The cable has an aged copper colour, coated with soft PVC. It has over-ear guides made of a slightly stiffer plastic layer. It consists of two coiled strands. The sleeve of the 3.5mm SE gold-plated plug is metallic, cylindrical, depressed in the centre. It is thin and the smaller diameter at its centre is intended to make it easier to grip, but not enough. Its small and narrow size works against it. The splitter piece follows the same shape, shorter, with a larger diameter at the outlet than at the inlet. The pin is a cone that offers little resistance to the passage of the cable, so its function is not the best. The sleeve of the 2Pin connectors are cylinders with a grooved ring near the cable. There are R and L letters in white ink to differentiate the channel. The 2 pins are gold-plated and are mounted on a hard plastic translucent circular plate. There is a light grey velcro strap with the brand logo in white. All parts of the cable are metallic, in a matching colour to the cable. The cable is not bad, manageable, docile and soft. The plug is a bit thin and a bit slippery, even though it has fine grooves and the centre is narrower.
Adjustment and Ergonomics
The classic semi-spherical shape triumphs. The outer face is rounded, smooth and soft. The protrusion of the rim can become annoying after a few hours. The fit is firm, direct, there is no rotation. The mouthpieces are well designed for medium insertion, but their diameter may prevent it from being larger. Even, depending on the tips used, the fit may only be shallow. The angle is adequate and I have found no problem using my large foam-filled tips, which I make myself. With them, the sound is full and the isolation is remarkable. The over-ear guides are not annoying, thanks to their softness and low stiffness.
Sound
Profile
The profile of the TKZK Ouranos seems to follow the path of other successful IEMS in the same segment. Again, it is not a neutral profile, but it is within the parameters of balance and homogeneity. Again, much of its frequency response is within 10dB. You could call it a tiny w, with a relatively linear sub-bass and a fairly controlled mid-high emphasis. The difference lies in a roll-off start to the treble, something that detracts from its initial sparkle and liveliness. While I don't consider it to feel dark, it does fall into the group of soft IEMS, organic in nature, analogue in character and warm in accent.
Bass
The bass is relatively compact, with a good extension towards the LFOs. They have a slight tendency to leak slightly, especially in the sense of roughness or texture. In this case, this aspect is not as controlled and combined with a bit of colour in the mid-bass, it is enhanced in a way that loses a bit of rigour. However, this does give it a distinct bit of personality that can be pleasing. It may not come across as fully defined, but it gives a spicy, riotous edge to the electronic music. On the downside, it loses depth and sensory capacity, hence its colour remains to the right of a completely natural tonality. The dryness of the hit is average, but it can still be said to retain control and good recovery. My traditional very low frequency pure tone test reveals a classic behaviour of a current dynamic driver, characterised by the roughness I mentioned. The physicality and presence below 40Hz feels more limited, its behaviour is not as sensory and the oscillation is more vibratory than sonic. Above this value, things return to order and the reproduction gains in fidelity. When hitting compact drums, the energy level is not too high, although it copes quite well. For my taste, it lacks a bit of body, more impactful physical sensation, power and energy. A bit more punch in general. However, I can't complain about its performance with electronic music. On the other hand, the good thing is that it is not too invasive and its behaviour towards the low midrange is spot on.
Finally, in my other classic test with unfiltered bass passages and simultaneous bass lines, the Ouranos respond quite well, being able to follow the bass melodies without smearing and maintaining a good level of fidelity. In these cases it feels that it is not very dark or sensory and the ease of reproduction is based on generating a recognisable and relatively complex bass blanket, which is remarkable. However, the level of roughness in these cases, its relative lack of control, is often the point that can generate an ambivalent feeling towards its sonority. But I like it.
Mids
The beginning of the midrange is characterised by a gentle descent from the bass, something that gives the first half strength, physicality and body, without bleeding, veiling or muddiness until 1000 Hz or beyond. Admittedly, the entrance to the centre is not completely clean and there is a little warmth that carries over into this area. This is a fact that is usually pleasing to my ears, as long as this does not mean that the sound becomes cloying. And this is not the case here. The result is a well-represented first half, where the male voices have a middle distance, vigour, strength, though not a lush, surrounding body, which gives them a superior three-dimensionality. In this respect, they are simpler, which is logical for IEMS of this range. On the other hand, the ornamental richness, the nuances and details, make for a relatively rich and decisive performance. I don't miss a greater harmonic development, despite the softness of the treble. The tone is adequate, within that neutral/warm range, with no faults or sibilance. The level of definition is remarkable and the descriptive ability of the ensemble does not make me miss playing the music with other IEMS. In that respect, it is clear that these are not analytical IEMS, but there is enough transparency and separation to notice a good level of light and distinction between notes. There is no obvious cohesion and the notes have a thickness that makes them individual, but without losing musicality. A good compromise between naturalness, cleanliness and resolute competence.
In the second half there is a controlled enhancement at the entrance of the treble. It is somewhat short in comparison to that excitement which seeks exalted detail, vigour, luminosity or forced brilliance. The tuning does not seek that, but pursues a more dynamic clarity, which does not lose its composure, nor does it separate the fundamental from its ornaments indiscriminately, which is a good thing. It may be a little limited in force, but you can't always have everything. And perhaps that is the difference between this group of IEMS that navigate a similar FR. The struggle is there and everyone's taste will have the last word.
Treble
Despite all of the above: that initial cut in the first treble and the homogeneity of the amplitude of the whole FR, I find the initial treble punch commendable. There are always IEMS that are too controlled in this respect, whose sonority feels clearly limited, muted. This is not the case here. The initial sparkle, while not a prodigy of vertical and horizontal expansion, feels quite full. There is a good compromise between energy level and extension, which gives the sound a pleasing and stretched treble rigour in equal parts. The sound is natural, slightly muted, but satisfying, present, even engaging and surprisingly rich, within its obvious capabilities.
The top notes are medium to thin in thickness. They are not sharp or crisp, but there is a low-sparkle, but still felt brightness. This is noticeable in the midrange harmonics and in the level of detail.
The dynamic drivers increasingly extend their range and the airy feel exceeds the level of testimonial, by far. Quite good overall.
Soundstage, Separation
I would place the size of the scene above average. Although it is not very deep, it has a more remarkable height, with a patent laterality. It seems to me a more frontal approach, which acquires a certain ethereal level, due to the elevation of the notes. But, without reaching a very immersive or three-dimensional presentation. Again, the coherence between the three bands and the good tuning between mid-high and treble, gives the sound a remarkable grace in the representation of the details, being perceptible, even the smallest ones. A remarkable quality for an IEMS of its range and non-analytical tuning. All this is also thanks to its resolution, definition, dynamics, amount of air and, obviously, distance between elements and amount of separation. Very good.
Comparisons
TinHiFi T2 DLC 2022
Without a doubt, if there is a brand that moves like a fish in water in this price segment, it is none other than TinHiFi. And it proved it with its T2 DLC 2022 model, an IEMS currently priced at around $53. I still think that TinHiFi's latest models move around a similar tuning, with minor modifications in between. The TKZK Ouranos could be added to that group, because their FR is not very different from that of the DLC 2022. They just have a little more sub-bass and less extension in the first treble. The rest of the curve is really similar. But these two important differences are enough to clearly express the differences in the sound of both. But, before going into the sound, I will list the obvious physical differences. The Ouranos have a semi-custom shape and are made of resin. The DLCs have that traditional ballistic L-shaped, all-metal form. Comfort is superior on the TKZK. It's not that the DLCs are uncomfortable, but their fit is less perfect and more free-flowing.
In terms of accessories, both are about the same, but the DLCs' silver cable is thinner than the Ouranos', although the plug sleeve is larger and more useful.
Turning to sound, the Ouranos are subtly more sensitive. Their profile is warmer, deeper, with a higher bass presence. Or, depending on how you look at it, with a lower treble presence, offering a less bright sound, where bass can be more predominant. In the DLCs, the higher treble presence is noticeable, offering superior clarity and finesse. But when it comes to the bass, there are not so many differences. The Ouranos reach a lower level with more power and offer a more evident texture. The DLCs are more concise, better defined, but also drier and more immediate. The Ouranos offer a slightly bigger bass, taking up more space, with more physicality, volume and energy. But they also leave more resonance. It is here that the extra presence is noticeable. The DLCs have better technical ability, but less fun as well.
In the midrange, the Ouranos offer a warmer naturalness, a little more muted, but with a fair amount of detail. I find the timbre more sedate and pleasant, while the DLCs are more brightness-oriented, being a little warmer in the upper-mids. This adds a heightened sense of transparency, as well as a more obvious inclination to detail. That's not to say that Ouranos are less detailed. At the limit, they might be about the same, but in the DLCs, this one is more obvious and prominent, though it can also be more overwhelming. I have regarded the TinHiFi as a reference in this range, with a very well achieved and homogeneous neutral-slightly bright sound. Similarly, the Ouranos are like a warmer, softer version, possessing many of the virtues of the DLCs, but with a more neutral-subtly dark sound. And that's what you feel in the treble - there's more energy and lift in the DLCs, they're more crisp and explicit. On the other side, the Ouranos are softer and a bit more diffuse, less thin. The thickness of the notes in the DLCs is thinner, slimmer and sharper, offering a more analytical and cooler profile.
Scene-wise, I find more depth, body and laterality in the Ouranos, as well as that extra height. The thinner note feel makes the DLCs sound flatter. In contrast, the Ouranos seem more three-dimensional. For the same thickness of the DLC's notes, their separation is good. But the Ouranos don't lack resolution and know how to distance the elements by putting a dark background in between. The larger space of their image allows for a separation that seems more evident.
In the end, these are two great IEMS, it is clear that the inclination of each one towards a profile will reveal their preference for one or the other model. My tendency towards bass and a more corporeal midrange inclines me towards the Ouranos, winning by the slimmest of margins due to this personal bias.
Conclusion
As a first impression, I thought that the TKZK Ouranos were going to be one more in this tough and combative price range. Here, everyone will have their own kings and their own opinion will have the last word. But when it comes to judging IEMS, each reviewer has his or her own preferences and what may be white for some may be black for others. There is no such thing as neutrality in this sense. And that is the case here. Having tried these IEMS and compared them with other references in the range, I lean towards their more sedate sound in the high end, with a larger, more corporeal, deeper and rougher low end, a more physical, very detailed, resolving midrange and a remarkably descriptive, yet very controlled treble. It is true that the inoffensive sound can have many detractors. But I am glad to know that there is an economic aspect that adds a differential plus. In this case, that innocence does not imply a cohesive softness that limits other technical features. And that's why I find myself faced with a very good level of detail, resolution, definition, even scene and image. It's an opinion like any other, don't you think so?
Sources Used During the Analysis
- Aune X8 XVIII Magic DAC + EarMen ST-Amp.
- Earmen Angel.
- TempoTec Variations V6.
- ACMEE MF02s.
- xDuoo XD05 BAL.
- Hidizs AP80 PRO-X Red Copper Limited Edition.
- Aune Flamingo.
Ratings
- Construction and Design: 87
- Adjustment/Ergonomics: 90
- Accessories: 70
- Bass: 87
- Mids: 90
- Treble: 80
- Separation: 83
- Soundstage: 85
- Quality/Price: 95
Linsoul offered me this model, in exchange for writing an honest review. I want to make it clear that all my opinions written in this review have not been conditioned by this fact, nor will I ever write anything that I do not really think or feel here. I will only write about my personal opinion in relation to the revised product.
Purchase Link
You can read the full review in Spanish here
SenyorC
100+ Head-Fier
Pros: build, aesthetics, comfort, mids are well balanced...
Cons: Subbass and bass is not controlled well, details are nothing special, they struggle to make a name for themselves in a very competetive price range...
TLDR version on YouTube: TDLR - TKZK Ouranos
To avoid being repetetive in my reviews, you can find all the info about how I create the reviews, equipment used, how I receive the products and how to interpret my reviews by visiting: About my reviews
The TKZK Ouranos have been sent to me by Linsoul in exchange for this review. As usual, they have not made any specific requests and I will do my best to be as unbiased and sincere as possible.
I have left a non-affiliate link (as always) to the Ouranos via Linsoul on my blog, link at the end of this post.
Introโฆ
TRZK is another brand that I hadnโt heard of until I received these IEMs from Linsoul. A quick search of the web doesnโt bring back any results, except for Linsoul (at least on the first couple of pages of results). Linsoul has two models by TKZK, the Wave at $39 and the Ouranos at $55. This places the Ouranos just about on the 50โฌ limit that I like to mention as ultra budget here on Acho Reviews.
There is not a huge amount of information about the model except for the fact that it uses a 10mm driver and has a sensitivity of 110dB with an impedance of 32 Ohms.
Presentationโฆ
The Ouranus come in a square black box with a lift off lid, inside of which we find the IEMs, the cable, 6 sets of silicone tips (in two styles) and a small drawstring bag for storage.
There really isnโt anything special about the presentation although there is nothing to complain about either, so letโs move on.
Build and aestheticsโฆ
The IEMs are off a very generic shape and size, 3D printed in resin, which should work as far as comfort for the majority of users. The nozzles are longer than usual which led me to opting for the small size of tips with the grey core in order to get a comfortable fit and good seal. Once I decided on these tips, I found them to be comfortable for longer sessions.
The build is decent, nothing extraordinary, just another 3D resin printed shell but with no issues that I have come across. As far as aesthetics, the shell is black with a faceplate that combines copper and black coloured flecks set into the resin, with the TKZK logo in a gold colour. Again, nothing spectacular but they look decent enough and have actually grown on me since I received them, especially in this budget range.
The cable is a simple double twist in a titanium colour that matches the IEMs well and uses metal hardware and connectors.
All in all, the build and aesthetics are more than adequate for the price range that these IEMs sit in.
Soundโฆ
All tracks mentioned are clickable links that allow you to open the reference track in the streaming service of your choice (YouTube, Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, etc.)
Here is the graph comparing the Ouranos to my usual preference target:
Starting off with the subbass and the usual โChameleonโ work out, there is enough in the lowest frequencies to appreciate the track, however, the control and clarity of the lower rumbles is not the best. The Ouranos do seem to lose a bit of control in these ranges and, while it doesnโt take over the whole tuning, it is a little too present and โboomyโ for my personal tastes.
The mid bass suffers from a similar issue. While the midbass is not too excessive in its presence, there is a general lack of control and can once again come across as boomy on tracks like โNo Sanctuary Hereโ by Marian Herzog feat. Chris Jones or โSun Is Shiningโ by Bob Marley & Robin Schulz.
The mid range is well balanced and there is no real bleed from the lower ranges into the mids. I did find that the electric guitar on โWhole Lotta Loveโ overshadowed the vocals a little but the result was not terrible by any means in these ranges. The same could be said about โDon't Start Nowโ where the instruments are a little too powerful for the vocals but this is really a minor gripe.
Moving through the upper mid range, the response is smooth and things donโt come across as harsh. Even Beth in โDon't You Worry Childโ is listenable on the Ouranos, maintaining a little of that harshness that is present in her voice but smoothing it slightly, making it more tolerable than on many other sets.
The upper ranges are also rather smooth and relaxed, while maintaining some sensation of air and clarity. Sibilance is kept in check fairly well with the usual โCode Coolโ test and also Paul Simon on โDiamonds On The Soles of Her Shoesโ. There is a slight hint but it is certainly reduced in comparison to what I feel is โnormalโ.
As far as details, the Ouranos is not really a set that stands out in this regard and while the soundstage is not bad (maybe slightly above average for an IEM), with layering that is also decent enough, there is a sensation of things not being quite as โlivelyโ and detailed as they should be on tracks like โAll Your Love (Turned Into Passion)โ or even โStrange Fruitโ, where the vocal layers are separate but seem to be a little short on the small details that make the distinguishable.
Isolation is around average for the Ouranos, meaning that they should work well enough for usual surroundings but will suffer in very noisy enviroments.
Conclusionโฆ
We have been spoiled by so many ultra budget sets lately that it makes it difficult for new arrivals in the category to stand out and make a name for themselves. The Ouranos are by no means a bad set of IEMs but they arenโt really anything that places them in a position to compete with some of the โbetterโ models in their price range (I put better in quotes as this is a very subjective term).
The bass ranges are a little boomy and โlooseโ for my personal tastes but again, that is because they have some tough competition to be compared against. I think that they are good enough for theirr price range, in other words, I donโt feel that they are overpriced or are something that most people would regret buying, they are just not the top of their range (in my opinion of course).
______
As always, this review is also available in Spanish both on my blog (www.achoreviews.com) and on YouTube (www.youtube.com/achoreviews)
All FR measurements of IEMs can be viewed and compared on achoreviews.squig.link
All isolation measurements of IEMs can be found on achoreviews.squig.link/isolation
SherryLion
New Head-Fier
Pros: 1. One of the best balanced tuning
2. Natural and warm vocal tone
3. Smooth and relaxed treble
4. Good energy in the upper mid range and lower treble
2. Natural and warm vocal tone
3. Smooth and relaxed treble
4. Good energy in the upper mid range and lower treble
Cons: 1. Average technicalities
2. Boomy and poor textured bass
2. Boomy and poor textured bass
Review Of the TKZK Ouranos
Introduction
According to what I've learned, Tin Hifi, the notoriously renowned firm that created the P1 series of IEMs and the recently launched C series, has a new subsidiary brand called TKZK. I think that TKZK is specifically focused towards the budget-friendly market because they began with a release named Wave, which was well-received by many well-known audiophiles in the community. Ouranos, a new IEM that costs more and competes in the sub-$50โ$60 IEM market, has recently been added to their lineup. Recognizing their success with their first release Wave, let's find out if their second release will uphold the name of TKZK, but before, let's go over some crucial aspects.
Disclaimer
*Since this unit tour was organised by the kindly people at Linsoul, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as "Ouranos."
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Ouranos based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.
Specification
The Ouranos is a single dynamic driver IEM, the driver used is a new genration 10mm dynamic driver with carbon nanotube diaphragm and N52 magnet. The shells are 3D printed and made of resin and hand polished. The face plate is made of rose gold colored carbon-fibre material .The cable is has 2 pin connectors and it ends in a straight 3.5mm termination plug. Other than the iems and cable, accessories like 6 pair of two different kinds of eartips(small, medium, large) and cotton storage bag are also included in the packaging box. Coming to the technical specifications, the impedance is of 32ohms and the sensitivity is 110dB. The frequency response extends from 10Hz to 20kHz and the distortion is at 1%.
Sound
The Ouranos' audio output is well-balanced and exhibits good presence in all frequency ranges, whether they be the bass, midrange, or treble. The top treble region and the lower mid range always have some rough edges, but the Ouranos are still fun to listen to as long as the overall response is balanced and clear. This IEMS' tone causes me to hum along with the music I'm listening to. The Ouranos' environment is authentic and pleasingly slick. The treble is robust, delivering a lot of clear, precise notes. The bass performs a great job of providing strong bass while the mid range sounds relaxing and centred. I've listened to IEMs in the price range these are being provided in, and although I don't find the listening experience to be generic or uninteresting, I do think this tuning sets these apart from the competition since I believe they are one of the best balanced tuned IEM in this price range. Let's investigate the sound more in depth.
Treble
It sounds calming and unoffensive because of the clear intensity in the treble and the nice number of details that are produced. The upper treble has a relaxed, fluid extension that has just enough information to distinguish the vocalists from the instruments. While the instruments have a slight hotness in the air, the voices seem nice and regular; they don't come across as harsh or edgy. The vocals may seem to overshadow the instruments, but the treble does seem airy enough to keep everything in place. The complexity of the music will determine how frequently this event occurs. The lower treble provides a positive vibe and keeps the momentum rolling. The singers and instruments are made to sound crisper and more tonally present by the vigour of the music. In contrast to the instruments, which take a more relaxed approach while sounding lively and secure, the vocals come across as expressive and somewhat genuine because they are neither peaky or crisp in any way. Without any effort, both sound fantastic when combined and function together. Overall, the treble region is presented in a calming, neutral, and tonally appealing way that neither sounds dull nor sharp in any way.
Mid Range
The voices are placed forward and sound open, the midrange is organised and feels expansive, and the instruments sound distinct with good clarity and no metallic timbre. When both the vocals and the instruments are highlighted and complemented by one another, the upper mid range resembles the lower treble in sound. Your ears will like the response's friendlier tone and lack of sibilance. The vocals, particularly the female ones, feel warm and real. Although the male vocals may sound a little muffled, the intensity is maintained. On the other side, the lower mid range comes off as timid in the mix. The lower mid range seems pushed back to me. Although the vocals and instruments sound flat and uninteresting, the warmth and support it offers allows the upper frequencies to appear more organic and natural. Actually, I don't mind it because the density and note weight are to my taste. The bass lines have good melodic notes that are rich and hit the correct tones. The upper and lower midrange's symbiotic relationship has a pleasant, smooth sound. The way this area is played gives the entire answer a roomier, more inviting sound. The mid range is presented overall as fun, enjoyable, and natural sounding.
Bass
The bass smacks and pushes you firmly in the nicest possible way. In certain bass-heavy tracks, the bass lacks texture and loses control. Although they have a boomy and thick sound, I believe that this keeps the response more spontaneous and real. I understand that these don't affect the overall response, but they actually make the sound coming out of the Ouranos more filling, richer, and denser in tonality. Typically, IEMs with such responses have a cool vibrating bass with sensations feeling but not powerful enough to hit your eardrums and taunt you with impacts of bass. Although the mid bass is cut off at 300 Hz, I still believe it has a significant impact on the lower mid range. Regarding the mid-bass, the voices hit deeper notes and give it a warm tone, whilst bass guitars sound perfect, with thick and rich plucks that give it a really pleasant sound. The sub bass extends and goes down deep. To be honest, the rumbly feeling and punchy behaviour lack impact, whereas slams are incredibly hard striking. They, in my opinion, are infamous bass-hitting devils. These truly add to the overall mix's pleasure and excitement. The bass region sounds forceful, pounding, hard hitting, and occasionally boomy in its overall presentation, maintaining the reaction as genuine as it can be.
Technical Performance
The tone of the Ouranos is natural and tends towards warm, and being a single DD at this price range leaves it vulnerable with technical abilities. As a result, the technical performances are ordinary for an IEM in this price range. My research doesn't seem to indicate that this IEM is particularly terrible; these are capable of being accomplished. The stage is big enough to sound spacious, and the elements may not sound as far apart from one another due to improved imaging. The speed is not fast but sufficient to remove any bloat or confusion in the mix, and the resolution is acceptable for the price.
Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation
The soundstage is big enough to maintain everything in its proper location and sound spacious without being too broad or distant yet just deep enough to provide the impression of depth. I believe that the imaging could be sharper and clearer. Although sometimes it was difficult to distinguish some noises that were close in frequency, overall it wasn't horrible, making the separation of elements still justifiable.
Speed & Resolution
By and large, I thought the resolution was satisfactory. The details weren't very clear-cut, but they were acceptable. While the sounds were initially a touch flat and blunt in reaction, the equally spaced attack and decay of the notes actually caused the frequencies to smoothly transition, giving the impression of melting.
Sound Impressions
Sources
Tempotec V6 - The overall tone was calm and clear when Ouranos was used with the V6. While the mid range sounded fantastic with good vocal recalls and complimenting instruments, the treble remained as smooth as ever. Although it felt a touch out of control, the bass managed to maintain a clean response. The stage was a little wider and the pace felt faster than previously, but the technical aspects remained the same. That seems like a relatively natural pairing with the V6. I had a good time and enjoyed myself.
iFi Hipdac - The Hipdac made it sound more lively in the mid range but the treble became a little dark when listening to it with Ouranos. Although more boomy, the bass still felt a little excessive. I experienced a really bassy response. The stage felt closer while the picture became a little sharper, and the same was true of the technical aspects. With such strong bass and forward mid range, the presentation got more forceful. I didn't like the combo with the hipdac.
Tracks Used
Earth, Wind & Fire - September
Earth, Wind & Fire - Let's Groove
Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere(Remastered)
Toto - Africa
The Police - Every Breath You Take
Daft Punk - Tron Legacy (End Titles)
GOJIRA - Amazonia
Fergie - Glamorous
50 Cent - In Da Club
Skrillex - XENA
Skrillex - Torture You
The Neighbourhood - Sweater Weather
Luna Haruna - Overfly
Blck Cobrv - Candy Shop
LMYM - 0 (zero)
Indila - Love Story
Marina Hoiuchi - Mizukagami no Sekai
Wayne - Not Enough
Conclusion
If you're searching for a finely tuned IEM with a warm and balanced tonality with technicalities to drive out enough details to keep you interested, the Ouranos is priceless. Bass enthusiasts may also be drawn to them. I enjoyed it. I'd recommend giving them a shot.
ywheng89
100+ Head-Fier
Pros: Linear and non offensive sound
Good technicalities for the asking price
Very good fitting
No driver flex
Good technicalities for the asking price
Very good fitting
No driver flex
Cons: Might be a little lacking in terms of detail retrieval for those who prefers a analytical tuning
General Info/Build/Comfort/Packaging
Ouranos is TKZKโs second IEM, their first IEM was called Wave, and it was a mixed bag in terms of sound, some liked it, some didn't. Ouranos is a single dynamic driver IEM with a 10nm CNT driver.
The packaging for Ouranos is in line with the asking price, it came with two types of eartips, one with a wider bore and another narrow, which i believe one should be a normal and another a bass eartips. The quality of the bundled cable is very good as well, soft and doesnโt tangle up easily.
Ouranos also fits very well in my ears, the fit is very snug and the noise isolation is very good combined with the right size of ear tips
Gears used for this impression
- TKZK Ouranos with stock cable and stock eartips
- Earmen Angel Dac Amp
- iPod Touch 5th Gen
- Macbook Air M2โs 3.5mm port
My impression is solely based on what I hear via my equipment and I never consider my reviews to be objective in any way rather a subjective approach. Do take into consideration that everyoneโs ear anatomy is not the same, so the psychoacoustics perception might be different as well, but i believe it will not stray too far
Sound Impression
Ouranos sounds quite neutral to my ears, there is nothing peaky and it is just smooth overall and very easy to listen to. Timbre sounds natural to my ears and instruments generally have got good note weight. Letโs take a look at the frequency breakdown as follow:
Bass
- Ouranosโs bass is speedy and clean
- Sub bass does sound a little rolled off to my ears, but it is there when the track calls for it, lacking extension
- Mid bass does lack a little punch and weight but it has good control and doesnโt bleed into the mids
- It will not satisfy basshead for sure, but it is good for those who are looking for linear bass response
- Mid range is forward sounding but not as lush
- Vocal has got good texture to it, female vocal such as Na Yingโs voice sounded very sweet and pleasant to listen to
- Male vocal also got good texture and note weight to it
- The upper mids doesnโt sound shouty to my ears
- Treble has got good energy to it but never once offensive nor sibilant
- However, i do find that the extension is slightly lacking and this results in slight fuzziness
- Air and presence region is sufficient and doesnโt struggle during complex track
- Soundstage is actually quite decent with good width and depth, slightly lacking height, but very good for the price overall
- Imaging is good and instruments can be pinpointed easily even during complex tracks such as Slipknotโs People = crap! And Metallicaโs Lux Aeterna
- Ouranos is very easy to drive, it can pump out decent listenable volume from your phoneโs 3.5mm jack or even a simple dongle such as Appleโs Lightning Dongle
- It does however scale with better source
- Feeding it with Earmen Angelโs 3.5mm output with Gain+ mode activated, Ouranos sounded more dynamic and open, bass is somehow tighter and soundstage does expand a little
- In terms of build quality, both are more or less the same sharing similar fitting profile, both fits very well on my ear and offers very good noise isolation and snug fit
- In terms of sound, C3 is a little bit more fun sounding compared to Ouranos which is a little neutral
- Bass has got more note weight on the C3, Mid range is slightly more exciting and also energetic treble, it can be a concern for those who are sensitive to treble
- In terms of technicalities, both are more or less on par with each other, exchanging blows
Final Thoughts
Ouranos is a solid IEM overall, it is going for a more neutral response instead of V shaped or harman target. It does everything alright with good technicalities for its asking price. Ouranos is a set that will please those who prefer a neutral response, but will not please basshead due to its linear bass response. At the time of writing, it is on sale with a 10$ discount at 45$ instead of 55$
*Ouranos is sent over by KeepHifi in exchange for this review, I thank them for the opportunity. I received no monetary compensation nor was I influenced in any way to produce this review.
If you are interested in getting a pair, head over to KeepHifiโs web store to grab one!
TKZK Ouranos - Non affiliated