KZ EDC Pro Review- Thrifty Tunes Ep.4

Summary

In this episode of Thrifty Tunes, Omar reviews the KZ EDC Pro, a budget-friendly IEM priced around $12-$15. The review highlights KZ's minimalistic packaging, the functionality of the cable, and the build quality, with a focus on the recessed QDC connector. The sound signature is described as fun and V-shaped, with a boosted bass and toned-down treble, offering a solid balance for the price. While the mids take a backseat, they remain clean, and the overall sound quality impresses for its affordability. Comparisons to other budget IEMs like the 7 Hertz 02 and Moondrop Chu further illustrate the value of the EDC Pro, especially when found on sale.

Takeaways

• 😀 KZ's EDC Pro sits above the EDC and EDC X in terms of price and aims to compete in the budget IEM market.
• 🎧 The EDC Pro is priced around $12-$15, offering a budget-friendly option for those new to the Chi-Fi space.
• 📦 KZ's packaging for the EDC Pro is minimalistic, featuring a basic plastic tray, classic Tagliatelli cable, and three sets of silicone tips.
• ⚡ The EDC Pro comes with a recessed QDC connector, allowing users to use aftermarket cables with normal two-pin connectors.
• 🔌 The included Tagliatelli cable is not highly praised for handling, as it misbehaves and lacks a chin slider but is functional.
• 🛠️ The build quality of the EDC Pro is solid for the price, with injection-molded resin shells, breather holes, and a mesh grill on the nozzle.
• 🎵 The EDC Pro features a fun V-shaped sound signature, with an elevated bass response, making them great for bass-heavy genres but not a true bass-head set.
• 🔊 The mids are scooped, making them less prominent, but still well-done for a V-shaped KZ set. Female vocals may sound a bit darker or huskier.
• 🎶 Treble is toned down compared to typical KZ sets, avoiding harshness but still exhibiting some washiness in the upper treble, especially in percussion.
• 💡 The EDC Pro has good stereo separation and decent soundstage, with a slight front-to-back depth, particularly noticeable in live recordings.
• 💰 Despite some competition from similar-priced sets like the 7 Hertz 02 and MoonDrop Chew, the EDC Pro offers great value for fun, budget-friendly sound.

Q & A

What is the price range of the KZ EDC Pro IEMs?

The KZ EDC Pro IEMs were released for around $12 to $15, depending on where they are purchased.

How does the KZ EDC Pro compare to other KZ models in terms of pricing and features?

The KZ EDC Pro sits above the EDC and EDC X models in terms of price and features. It is positioned as a budget-friendly option within the KZ lineup.

What are some of the controversies surrounding the KZ brand?

KZ has faced controversies related to their PR choices and some questionable actions in the past, which have affected their reputation within the audiophile community.

How is the packaging of the KZ EDC Pro?

The packaging is minimalistic, featuring a plastic tray that holds the IEMs, a KZ tagliatelli cable, and three sets of KZ Starline silicone tips. The packaging is designed to be cost-effective and basic.

What is the build quality like on the KZ EDC Pro?

The build quality is standard for KZ, with injection-molded resin shells. The IEMs are lightweight and feature two breather holes and a mesh grill on the nozzle. While not heavy, there have been reports of resin cracking in the past on some KZ sets, though the recessed QDC connector on the EDC Pro may offer better durability.

How do the KZ EDC Pro IEMs handle low impedance devices?

The KZ EDC Pro IEMs are extremely sensitive with low impedance, allowing them to run on a variety of devices such as phones, laptops, and tablets. However, some older sources may produce a slight noise when no music is playing, though it disappears once music starts.

How does the KZ EDC Pro sound overall?

The sound of the KZ EDC Pro is v-shaped but more balanced than typical KZ IEMs. The bass is elevated and fun, while the mids are slightly recessed. The treble has been toned down compared to other KZ models, reducing harshness and fatigue.

How does the bass performance of the KZ EDC Pro compare to other budget IEMs?

The bass on the KZ EDC Pro is elevated, with great sub-bass extension and fun, punchy bass drops. While not a full bass-head set, the bass is one of the standout features and provides a lot of fun for listeners who enjoy boosted bass.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of the KZ EDC Pro's mids?

The mids on the KZ EDC Pro are slightly recessed, as expected from a v-shaped sound signature. However, they are cleaner and better tuned compared to other KZ models in the same price range. Some vocals can sound darker due to the boosted sub-bass, but overall, the mids are fairly good for a budget IEM.

What are some of the technical aspects of the KZ EDC Pro's sound performance?

The KZ EDC Pro offers good low-end technicalities with detailed bass guitar and string rumble. The high-end detail is present but somewhat lost due to the scooped mids and slightly washy treble. The stereo separation is good, and the soundstage is about average for the price range.

How do the KZ EDC Pro compare to other budget IEMs like the 7Hz 02 and Moondrop Chu?

Compared to the 7Hz 02, the KZ EDC Pro has a more prominent v-shape and fun bass but sacrifices some mid-range clarity and treble performance. The Moondrop Chu, on the other hand, offers a more balanced sound with a clearer midrange and cleaner top-end but lacks the same bass impact. The EDC Pro is considered the more fun option, especially at a lower price point.

What is the value proposition of the KZ EDC Pro at its MSRP and sale prices?

At its MSRP of $12 to $15, the KZ EDC Pro is a great option for those seeking a fun, v-shaped sound on a budget. If found on sale for around $9, it offers exceptional value, competing with IEMs that cost $20 to $30.

What are the recommended ear tips for the KZ EDC Pro?

Due to the small nozzles on the KZ EDC Pro, it's important to choose ear tips carefully. The stock KZ Starline silicone tips should work well, but users may need to be cautious with aftermarket tips, especially if they are prone to slipping off.