Blon is a brand that is no longer unfamiliar to music lovers in Asia. In 2019, the release of BL03 helped Blon become one of the prominent names in the audio market. Following the previous success, in early 2023, Blon decided to launch the low-cost IEM model Z300, which promises to take over the throne of BL03. Blon x HBB Z300 is also a headset that marks the collaboration between Blon and reviewer HBB.
Linsoul BLON x HBB Z300 10mm Silicone Diaphragm in-Ear Monitor and Tripowin Zonie 3.5mm QDC Cable Bundle: Buy it now
Table of Contents
Packaging and accessories
Unlike BL03, Z300 is packaged in a very small and compact white cardboard box. On the front of the cardboard box, in addition to the brand name and product name, the manufacturer also prints a dragon motif symbolizing nobility. All technical specifications will be printed on the back in 3 different languages.
The accessory set that comes with Blon x HBB Z300 will include:
- 1 cable
- 1 drawstring bag
- 3 pairs of narrow tube silicone ear tips size S/M/L
- 3 pairs of wide tube silicone ear tips size S/M/L
- Instructions for use
Design and wearing experience
Blon x HBB Z300 has a completely different design from BL03 and the previous model Z200. The entire housing is still made of metal, specifically zinc alloy. However, the ergonomic shape has been better optimized to provide a more comfortable and snug fit. Curving the edges on the housing makes the wearing experience more comfortable, limiting uncomfortable ear scratches.
The housing surface will be rough for the Matte Blue version and glossy for the Gold version. As for the Gold version, the entire housing will be plated with 18K gold. To create more highlights for the Z300, the faceplate will be decorated with a dragon pattern flying in the sky. With just this small detail, the appearance of Blon x HBB Z300 easily attracts all music lovers’ eyes.
Designed to be slightly longer than previous products, the Z300’s sound pipe can easily go deep into the listener’s ear. Located right near the sound duct is a small vent that allows pressure regulation both inside and outside the headset.
Another huge plus point for Blon x HBB Z300 is the cable. Compared to previous headphone models, the Z300 is equipped with a beautifully designed cable set and extremely good finishing. The cable is twisted from 4 wire cores made of high-purity copper. The cable uses a 0.78mm 2-pin connector and a gold-plated 3.5mm Single-edged jack. The only unfortunate point about this cable is that the connector is covered in transparent plastic, not shiny metal like the jack with the Y-splitter.
Driver configuration and sound quality
Inside the sound chamber of the Blon x HBB Z300, there is still only one integrated dynamic driver. This driver has a diameter of 10mm and uses a silicone speaker membrane. In terms of parameters, the Z300 operates at an impedance of 28Ohm, has a sensitivity of 115dB, and a frequency response range of 20Hz – 20kHz.
Practical experience shows that the Z300 is a headset with a V-Shape sound that is light, warm, smooth, and comfortable. The bass range is considered the strongest point of the Z300. Although the response speed of the bass range is not fast, the amount of bass is quite abundant. The sub bass stretches very well and has great extension. Meanwhile, the midbass sounds warm, rich in energy, and has good texture but is not very well controlled, so it encroaches on the mid-range.
Being affected by the bass range makes the mid-range of the Z300 have a very characteristic warmth. And the vocal part is heavily influenced by this. The male vocal part was performed very well, especially the deep male voice. However, the female voice is a bit lacking in detail and sharpness.
The treble tune range is quite gentle and does not leave much of an impression. The amount of detail is moderate and does not create annoying sib sounds. Although the treble sounds quite comfortable, those who like to listen to musical instruments will feel a bit disappointed with the Z300’s treble range.
The technical properties of the Z300 are quite average. The soundstage is neither too wide nor too deep. But the sound imaging is quite impressive, the ability to layer and separate instruments is not as excellent as Chu or 7Hz Zero, but it is enough to not stick the instruments together. Retrieval ability is quite average.
Compare
Vs Blon BL03
Compared to its predecessor, the Z300 is technically better. Not only is there a more detailed resolution, but the layering ability on the Z300 is also better than the BL03. The bass range on the Z300 is not only stronger and rounder but also has a better rumble than the BL03. Although the Z300 has a warmer, smoother mid-range and a more natural timbre, the soundstage is darker and less open than the BL03. The treble range is not the strength of both, but the BL03 has a more open-sounding treble range and a better amount of micro detail. Talking quickly about the design, it is clear that the Z300 completely surpasses the BL03 at this point. In addition to a more beautiful design, the Z300 also has better finishing, along with better-built cables.
Vs Kiwi Ears Cadenza
Compared to Cadenza, the Z300 has a more beautiful design, better finishing, and a more impressive set of accessories. However, the light weight helps the Cadenza feel a bit more comfortable and soft to the ear. In terms of sound quality, the Z300 has more bass but the response speed of the bass range is not as flexible as the Cadenza. Both have the mid-range slightly pushed back, but the low mid of the Z300 sounds warmer and the upper mid of the Cadenza sounds nicer. The treble strip on the Cadenza has better detail and sounds brighter but is also susceptible to sibs. Choosing the right tips will help Cadenza’s treble range be significantly less prone to sib.
Overall, with major changes in design, it is clear that Blon x HBB Z300 is one of the most beautiful headphones in the low-cost segment. Thick and vibrant bass sound is also a big plus point that helps the Z300 win many hearts from audiophiles.