I just got the KZ ed3 and the Meelectronics a161p in. I really like both of them. I gave them both a quick listen for an initial impression.
The a161p is the best sounding SINGLE balanced armature I've ever heard. The mids and highs are unbelievably clear and detailed. It has decent bass for a BA also. Bass heads, avoid this one as it is more about sonic accuracy than rattling your skull. The bass is there, but it is by no means impressive, and there is little to no sub bass. However the bass is present. If you're trying to compare it to comparable single balance armatures, the sound of the Sony XBA-1 and a151p are nowhere near the sound quality of the a161p. Overall the sound is balanced, crystal clear and ultra detailed. I really like them and don't regret my purchase of them for $50 USD. These really do put the XBA-1 and a151p to shame. They come with a plethora of accessories, quality packaging, and a nice clamshell case.
Things I don't like about the a161p have to do primarily with the cable and ergonomics. The cable is unbelievably flimsy after they split into the right and left channel. I'm going to have to be really careful with these things. It's right along the lines of the easy to snag and rip Koss Portapro wires. Seriously Meelec, you should have used the same awesome cable as the a151p, and I would be willing to pay an extra 30 for them. I almost want to call the company and complain about this and suggest they not use this for future designs for anything over 20 dollars. Also, the hozzle is angled for it to be worn down (although it's still pretty easy to be worn up and around the ear). Wearing them down, there are ridiculous microphonics issues. This is not a big deal, but I don't understand why companies don't come straight out with the cable coming from the hozzle and about 4/5 of the way towards the end of the housing. This would allow for users to wear them any way they want without issues.
Now for the ed3. It's a steal for 25 bucks. They got it right with this. Sturdy cable, metal housing, and good ergonomics. Some microphonics when worn down, but I don't care because these are set up well to go over the ear also (which I prefer). I would say the sound is somewhere between mid centric and balanced. There is some sub bass, no mid bass bloat from what I heard. the treble is there and doesn't seem to roll off too much so far. It seems to be a jack of all trades and a master of none. I really like it.
Things I don't like about the KZ ed3 is that it has s**t for accessories. No clamshell case, not even a pouch. There is nothing more than some bootlegged generic rubber tips in three different sizes. It's sad because these things are cool enough to come with a case, and some biflange tips or some foam tips. The good new is that if you're reading this I guaranfrickentee that you probably have a plethora of extra tips to make up for KZ's slack in terms of guaranteeing that everyone gets a good seal.
FYI Just because I pointed out some flaws with these, it DOES NOT mean I regret purchasing either of them. They are both fantastic and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them.
I'm going to kick back now and test these babies out...
. And how would it compare to others at similar price , like etymotic hf5
