Ultimate KZ in-ears Guide: Top Picks Ranked! (Tierlist)

Summary

In this comprehensive review, the speaker ranks various KZ in-ear monitors (IEMs) based on sound quality, construction, comfort, and value for money. Some models are praised for their excellent sound and affordable price, such as the KZ ZAX and EDX, while others like the ZS6 and ZSX are criticized for harsh treble or uncomfortable fit. The ranking spans several tiers, from S-tier standout models to D-tier IEMs that fail to impress. The speaker shares personal experiences with each IEM, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to purchase a KZ IEM.

Takeaways

• 😀 The KZ brand has a love-hate relationship with the reviewer, with some IEMs (In-Ear Monitors) being highly praised and others criticized.
• 😀 KZ IEMs are ranked based on four factors: price, construction, sound signature, and comfort, with the reviewer considering whether they would buy them personally.
• 😀 The KZ Z Pro Chical Edition is considered a good IEM, but its dry and aggressive mids made it less favorable for the reviewer, placing it in the B tier.
• 😀 The KZ Defy is one of the newest and most loved models, with excellent construction, solid sound signature, and very affordable pricing, earning it an S tier rating.
• 😀 The KZ Terminator is an upgrade over the ZS10 Pro but lacks comfort, which prevents it from reaching S tier despite its improved sound quality.
• 😀 The KZ ZS6, although solidly built with good bass and sub-bass, suffers from harsh treble peaks, which resulted in a B tier ranking.
• 😀 The KZ ZSN, while considered a great value for the price range, has piercing treble that detracts from its overall sound quality, placing it in A tier.
• 😀 The KZ ZAX, rated as the best KZ IEM the reviewer has heard so far, is praised for its amazing sound signature, energetic treble without peaks, and great detail retrieval, earning an S tier rating.
• 😀 The KZ EDX, at an extremely low price of around $4, delivers surprising sound quality and comfort, placing it in the S tier despite its plastic build.
• 😀 The reviewer highlights several IEMs from older generations, such as the KZ ZS10 and KZ ZSR, which were influential at their time but are now considered outdated or flawed, with the ZSR ranking in B tier due to harsh treble.
• 😀 KZ IEMs like the PR2, which require proper amplification to shine, are noted for their impressive detail retrieval and natural sound signature, earning an A tier ranking.
• 😀 Some KZ models, like the ZSX and ZSN Pro, show incremental improvements in sound quality but are hindered by treble peaks or comfort issues, resulting in A or B tier rankings.

Q & A

What are the main factors the reviewer considers when ranking KZ IEMs?

The reviewer ranks KZ IEMs based on four main factors: price, construction, sound signature, and comfort. These elements are key to determining whether a particular IEM is worth purchasing.

Which KZ IEM does the reviewer consider the best overall?

The KZ ZAX is considered the best IEM the reviewer has heard so far. It combines excellent sound detail, smooth treble, and deep bass, making it the standout model, although it is priced higher than other options.

Why does the reviewer place the KZ EDX in the S-tier?

The KZ EDX is placed in the S-tier due to its extremely affordable price (around $4) while delivering impressive sound quality, making it an unbeatable choice in the budget IEM category.

What is the issue with the KZ ZS10 Pro in terms of comfort?

The KZ ZS10 Pro is considered uncomfortable by the reviewer due to its bulky design, which makes it difficult to wear for long periods. While it offers great sound, the comfort factor holds it back from being rated higher.

What sets the KZ PR2 apart from other IEMs in terms of sound quality?

The KZ PR2 stands out due to its exceptional detail retrieval and natural sound profile. It is described as one of the most detailed KZ IEMs, though it requires proper amplification to perform optimally.

Why does the reviewer criticize the KZ ZS6's treble?

The reviewer criticizes the KZ ZS6's treble for being overly sharp and having many peaks, which can be harsh for some listeners. Despite this, the IEM has a lot of detail and a strong bass presence.

What is the main flaw with the KZ ZS10 Pro X?

The main flaw with the KZ ZS10 Pro X is that while it offers better sound quality than the original ZS10, the improvements are marginal and do not justify the higher price point. It is still considered a solid IEM but not a major upgrade.

How does the reviewer feel about the KZ ZSR compared to other KZ models?

The reviewer feels that the KZ ZSR, though well-constructed and affordable, has an overly harsh treble and a dry mid-range, which detracts from its overall performance. It is considered a solid IEM but not among the best.

What is the main criticism of the KZ ZSX?

The KZ ZSX is criticized for having a harsh, metallic treble that detracts from the listening experience. While it offers good bass and detail retrieval, the treble peaks are a significant flaw for the reviewer.

What makes the KZ DEFI stand out in the budget IEM category?

The KZ DEFI is praised for its excellent sound signature, with natural and detailed sound, making it one of the best IEMs under $20. It is highly regarded for its solid construction and great value for the price.