[dweaver]

Redjohn say it ain't so! The Z5 and Pono combine equal sonic bliss!!!

 

[gordec]

Got the Groupon deal now let's see how it fairs against the IE80. Too bad I can't really sell the IE80 for much nowadays.

 

[sujitsky]

I am considering either the Z5 or Z7 to pair with my Pono. I know one is an IEM and the other is an over ear model...however, I would be really grateful if any of you kind folks could summarize the strengths and weaknesses of either with relation to the other
 
Thanks !!!

 

[dweaver]

Only you will be able to tell, but I think the Z5 was a big improvement over my IE8 back in the day so think you will like it more.

 

[RedJohn456]

Redjohn say it ain't so! The Z5 and Pono combine equal sonic bliss!!!

 
I wish I could get my hands on a pono to audition it  I don't have the necessary gear to make the Z5 shine and I don't see any good portable balanced amp/dacs within my budget range 
 
I still don't get why they removed the USB dac functionality from the Beta Pono software lol. So infuriating

 

[RuffRydas]

I have a brand new unopened Z5 I got back from sony after they replaced my last pair. I am not 100% sure if I want to keep it, hence I haven't unwrapped it yet. IF I was to part with it, would anyone be potentially interested? I got it on clearance from a closing down canadian sony store for $474 CDN and it has warranty till 2016 Feb with receipt and everything. I have been playing around with some other toys lately and have too much gear as is and I need to clear house, so to speak. Again, just thinking out loud as it would free up funds for some other stuff I have been eyeing

Definitely interested in buying the Z5s and located in the GTA. I just PMd you!

 

[dweaver]

The Pono sure helps make a difference. If you have someone in the U.S. willing to help you maybe you can get one of those Fry's specials.

 

[cinese96]

  I have a brand new unopened Z5 I got back from sony after they replaced my last pair. I am not 100% sure if I want to keep it, hence I haven't unwrapped it yet. IF I was to part with it, would anyone be potentially interested? I got it on clearance from a closing down canadian sony store for $474 CDN and it has warranty till 2016 Feb with receipt and everything. I have been playing around with some other toys lately and have too much gear as is and I need to clear house, so to speak. Again, just thinking out loud as it would free up funds for some other stuff I have been eyeing

I'm interested too. You have PM 

 

[daniel_hokkaido]

   
I wish I could get my hands on a pono to audition it  I don't have the necessary gear to make the Z5 shine and I don't see any good portable balanced amp/dacs within my budget range 
 
I still don't get why they removed the USB dac functionality from the Beta Pono software lol. So infuriating

I got my PONO just on the faith of the review by Tyll Hertsens at Inner Fidelity. He wasn't wrong. What was the clincher was the power , the balanced to the Z5 with no new cable needed and great musicality. awesome combo! 

 

[gordec]

Anyone running the FIIO 18 with the Z5? I plan on using it with USB OTG LG G3 for the Z5 when it arrives.

 

[canikickit1]

Could be a mega reach and different sound sigs- 
 
but how is the Z5 vs the Dunu DN2000 (non - J version)?
 
My DN2000s have held me down for the past 2 years.

 

[calpiyuki]

How would you guys compare the z5s to the noble savant?

 

[johnwamp55]

I never heard the Savant but I had the K10. The K10 was ok but at times bass was light and Treble got too high. Now Noble says the Savant has less bass. I still have the Z5 and its my IEM I go to even over my custom IEMS. With an amp its my favorite because its sound stage, bass, sub bass, neutral clear Mids and detailed Treble. I like the Z5 so much I bought two other Sony IEMS.

 

[tl13m]

  How would you guys compare the z5s to the noble savant?

 
I'dont have z5 yet, but here is my short comparison with savant with H3
 
http://www.head-fi.org/products/noble-audio-savant/reviews/13520
 
IMO, it's depend on your sound signature preference. However, the build of standard universal Savant really .... for $599 price tag.
 
In short:
- Savant (standard universal): clarity, bright, accurate and flat bass. Low profile look, light & comfortable. Cheap plastic look
- H3/Z5: enjoyment (especially with impactful bass) music, movie, game . High profile look. Quality build

 

[tl13m]

  Could be a mega reach and different sound sigs- 
 
but how is the Z5 vs the Dunu DN2000 (non - J version)?
 
My DN2000s have held me down for the past 2 years.

 
The cable of DN 2000 cannot remove so no potential upgrade.
 
IMO in term of airy, clarity and sound stage: H3 with Fiio silver cable > DN2K > H3 stock cable (no mic)
 
Z5 is an upgrade of H3 so it should be much more potential, especially with the balance cable