The KZ ZS5 is a hybrid in-ear monitor (IEM) that combines two dynamic drivers (2DD) and two balanced armature drivers (2BA) to deliver a distinctive sound signature. Released by Knowledge Zenith (KZ), a company known for offering affordable yet high-performing audio equipment, the ZS5 was designed to cater to audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Despite its budget-friendly price tag, the ZS5 packs advanced technology that was previously only seen in much more expensive models. This review will cover the KZ ZS5’s design, sound quality, build quality, comfort, and overall value, focusing on its unique 2DD+2BA driver configuration.
Table of Contents
1. Design and Build Quality
The first thing that strikes you about the KZ ZS5 is its bold and industrial design. The earpieces have an angular, almost futuristic look with sharp lines and a multi-part shell construction. The shell is made from lightweight, durable plastic, which helps keep the weight of the earpieces down without sacrificing durability. The ZS5’s design might not appeal to everyone, as it can appear bulky and unconventional compared to the more rounded designs seen in other IEMs.
Despite its somewhat bulky appearance, the ZS5 is relatively lightweight, making it comfortable for long listening sessions. The build quality is impressive for its price point. The earpieces feel sturdy, and the detachable cables add a layer of versatility and durability, allowing users to replace the cable if it gets damaged or upgrade to a better cable for improved performance.
The detachable cable is a common feature in KZ’s higher-end models, and it’s a welcome addition in the ZS5. The standard cable that comes with the ZS5 is functional but nothing extraordinary. It has a braided design that resists tangling, but the overall feel is a bit stiff, and microphonics (noise caused by the cable brushing against your clothing) can be an issue at times. Many users opt to upgrade the cable for a more premium feel and reduced microphonics.
2. Comfort and Fit
Given the angular design of the KZ ZS5, comfort might be a concern for some users, particularly those with smaller ears. The earpieces are larger than many traditional IEMs, which can make achieving a secure fit more challenging. However, the ZS5 comes with multiple ear tip sizes, allowing most users to find a suitable fit. The key to comfort with the ZS5 is ensuring a deep and secure seal with the ear tips, as this not only improves comfort but also enhances sound isolation and bass response.
For listeners with average to larger ears, the ZS5 can be quite comfortable once you find the right fit. The lightweight design helps prevent fatigue during extended listening sessions. However, some users might find that the large housing sticks out of the ear more than they’d like, which could affect their overall comfort, especially for on-the-go listening or use during physical activities.
3. Driver Configuration: 2DD + 2BA Setup
The standout feature of the KZ ZS5 is its hybrid driver configuration, consisting of two dynamic drivers (2DD) and two balanced armature drivers (2BA) in each earpiece. This configuration is typically found in much more expensive IEMs, making the ZS5 an exceptional value proposition for budget-conscious audiophiles. Let’s break down how this hybrid setup works and how it affects the overall sound signature.
Dynamic Drivers (2DD)
Dynamic drivers are known for producing deep, impactful bass and a natural, warm sound. In the ZS5, the two dynamic drivers handle the low and mid frequencies, contributing to the strong bass response and providing the fullness and richness of the sound. The dynamic drivers also add a sense of power and energy to the music, making the ZS5 ideal for genres like electronic music, hip-hop, and rock.
Balanced Armature Drivers (2BA)
Balanced armature drivers are more precise and detailed than dynamic drivers, and they excel at reproducing high frequencies. In the ZS5, the two balanced armature drivers are responsible for handling the upper mids and treble frequencies. This results in a more refined, detailed sound in the higher registers, with improved clarity and separation compared to IEMs that use only dynamic drivers.
The combination of the 2DD + 2BA drivers allows the ZS5 to offer a V-shaped sound signature, where the bass and treble are emphasized, and the mids are slightly recessed. This tuning is popular among casual listeners and bassheads, as it creates an engaging, energetic sound that works well with modern genres of music.
4. Sound Quality
The KZ ZS5 delivers a distinct V-shaped sound signature, with a focus on impactful bass and sparkling treble, while the mids are slightly recessed. Let’s dive deeper into each aspect of the sound quality, including bass, mids, treble, soundstage, and imaging.
Bass
The bass response on the KZ ZS5 is one of its strongest points, thanks to the two dynamic drivers. The bass is powerful, punchy, and extends well into the sub-bass region, providing a deep and satisfying rumble that is ideal for bass-heavy genres like EDM, hip-hop, and dubstep. The mid-bass is also well-pronounced, giving drums and bass guitars a solid presence in the mix.
However, while the bass is impactful, it can sometimes be a bit overpowering, particularly in tracks with already emphasized low-end frequencies. The bass occasionally bleeds into the lower mids, which can muddy the overall presentation, especially in more complex musical passages.
For bass lovers, the KZ ZS5’s bass response is a major highlight, delivering a visceral, exciting low-end that adds energy and excitement to the music. However, audiophiles looking for a more neutral or balanced bass response might find the ZS5’s low-end a bit too exaggerated.
Mids
The mids on the KZ ZS5 are slightly recessed, which is typical of a V-shaped sound signature. As a result, vocals and midrange instruments like guitars and pianos can feel a bit distant compared to the forward bass and treble. However, the mids are not completely lost in the mix—they still offer a decent amount of detail and clarity, especially in the upper mids, where the balanced armature drivers take over.
Male vocals, in particular, can sound a bit recessed, while female vocals fare better due to the emphasis on the upper mids. Instruments in the midrange, such as acoustic guitars and pianos, come through with adequate detail but lack the forwardness and richness that you might find in more mid-centric IEMs.
For listeners who prioritize vocals and midrange detail, the KZ ZS5’s midrange might feel underwhelming, especially in comparison to IEMs with a more balanced or neutral tuning. However, for those who enjoy a more energetic, bass- and treble-focused sound, the recessed mids can help create a more spacious, airy presentation.
Treble
The treble on the KZ ZS5 is handled by the balanced armature drivers, and it’s one of the standout features of this IEM. The treble is crisp, detailed, and energetic, providing plenty of sparkle and airiness to the sound. High-frequency details, such as cymbals, hi-hats, and string instruments, come through with excellent clarity and precision.
However, the treble can sometimes be a bit too bright, especially at higher volumes. Some listeners may find the treble to be fatiguing over long listening sessions, particularly on tracks with heavy emphasis on high frequencies. The treble can also exhibit some sibilance on certain recordings, where “s” and “t” sounds become harsh or piercing.
Despite these potential drawbacks, the ZS5’s treble adds a sense of excitement and energy to the overall sound signature, making it a great choice for listeners who enjoy bright, detailed treble. Audiophiles who are sensitive to treble or prefer a smoother, more laid-back sound might want to consider a different IEM with a more relaxed high-end.
Soundstage and Imaging
One of the surprising strengths of the KZ ZS5 is its soundstage, which is wider and more spacious than what you’d typically expect from an IEM in this price range. The hybrid driver setup and the large housing of the ZS5 contribute to an open, airy soundstage that gives the music room to breathe. Instruments and vocals are well-separated, and the ZS5 provides a decent sense of depth, allowing you to pinpoint the position of individual elements within the mix.
While the soundstage is not as expansive as that of full-sized over-ear headphones or higher-end IEMs, it’s impressive for a budget IEM and adds to the overall immersion of the listening experience. The imaging is also precise, allowing you to accurately perceive the direction of different sound elements, which is particularly beneficial for genres like orchestral music, live recordings, and gaming.
5. Genre Compatibility
The KZ ZS5’s V-shaped sound signature makes it particularly well-suited for certain musical genres, particularly those that benefit from strong bass and treble. Here’s how the ZS5 performs across different genres:
- Electronic Music: The ZS5 excels in electronic music genres like EDM, dubstep, and house, where the powerful bass and energetic treble enhance the overall impact of the music. The deep sub-bass and punchy mid-bass add plenty of excitement to electronic beats, while the treble provides the necessary sparkle for high-frequency synths and effects.
- Hip-Hop: Hip-hop tracks benefit from the ZS5’s bass-heavy tuning, with the dynamic drivers delivering the deep, impactful bass that drives many modern hip-hop beats. The strong bass response enhances the rhythm and adds depth to basslines and kick drums. While the mids may not be as forward for vocal clarity, the ZS5 still presents hip-hop tracks with energy and excitement.
- Rock/Metal: For rock and metal genres, the KZ ZS5 offers an engaging listening experience due to its fast and punchy bass, along with bright treble for the aggressive guitar riffs and cymbals. However, some listeners might find that the recessed mids could cause the vocals and guitars to sound less prominent compared to the bass and treble. Despite this, the wide soundstage and excellent imaging help to separate the instruments, making it easier to follow complex arrangements in fast-paced rock and metal songs.
- Pop: The ZS5’s sound signature is also well-suited for modern pop music. The emphasized bass gives pop tracks a fun and lively feel, while the treble adds clarity to high-pitched vocals and electronic elements. Some pop tracks may suffer from the slightly recessed mids, causing vocals to be a bit distant, but overall, the ZS5 performs well with mainstream pop.
- Classical/Jazz: For more acoustic or instrumental genres like classical or jazz, the KZ ZS5’s bright treble and wide soundstage offer good separation of instruments, which can be especially enjoyable when listening to orchestral or live performances. However, the pronounced bass and recessed mids may detract from the natural tonality of instruments like pianos and strings. Audiophiles looking for a more neutral, mid-focused sound might prefer other IEMs for these genres.
- Acoustic/Folk: The ZS5’s bass can sometimes overshadow the delicate nature of acoustic or folk music, where clarity and natural midrange reproduction are essential. While the treble provides some detail, the recessed mids could cause acoustic guitars and vocals to sound less defined compared to other IEMs with a more balanced or mid-forward tuning.
6. Comparison with Competitors
The KZ ZS5 competes in the budget IEM market, where it faces tough competition from other affordable models that offer a variety of driver configurations and sound signatures. Here’s how it stacks up against a few notable competitors:
- KZ ZS6: The ZS6 is an upgrade to the ZS5, featuring a similar 2DD+2BA driver configuration but with a more refined tuning. The ZS6 has a more aggressive V-shaped sound signature, with even stronger bass and brighter treble. Some listeners may prefer the ZS6 for its improved clarity and detail, but others may find it too harsh or fatiguing for long listening sessions. The ZS6 also features a metal shell, which improves durability but adds weight and may affect comfort compared to the ZS5.
- TRN V80: The TRN V80 is another hybrid IEM that competes with the ZS5. It features a 2DD+2BA configuration as well, but with a slightly more balanced sound signature. The V80 offers a less aggressive bass response and smoother treble, making it a good option for listeners who prefer a more relaxed and natural sound. However, the ZS5 may be a better choice for bassheads and those who enjoy a more energetic sound.
- Tennmak Pro: The Tennmak Pro is a single dynamic driver IEM that offers a more neutral sound signature compared to the ZS5. It excels in providing a balanced, natural presentation with a focus on midrange detail and smooth treble. While the Tennmak Pro lacks the bass impact and treble energy of the ZS5, it’s a great option for listeners who prioritize vocals and instrument clarity over bass-heavy sound.
- CCA C10: The CCA C10, from a sister brand of KZ, offers a 1DD+4BA configuration, providing a more balanced sound signature with better detail retrieval in the mids and treble. The CCA C10 has a smoother and more refined tuning, making it a good alternative for those who want a hybrid IEM with less emphasis on bass and more focus on midrange clarity and treble detail.
7. Customization and Modding
One of the appealing aspects of the KZ ZS5 is its potential for customization and modding. Many users in the audio community enjoy experimenting with different cables, ear tips, and even internal mods to tailor the sound of the ZS5 to their personal preferences.
- Cable Upgrades: The detachable cable design of the ZS5 allows users to easily swap out the stock cable for aftermarket options. Upgrading to a higher-quality cable can improve the overall feel, reduce microphonics, and in some cases, subtly enhance the sound quality by providing better conductivity. Silver-plated copper cables are a popular choice for those looking to improve treble clarity, while pure copper cables are often recommended for enhancing bass response.
- Ear Tips: Changing the ear tips can have a significant impact on the sound and comfort of the ZS5. Foam tips, such as Comply or generic memory foam tips, can improve isolation and enhance bass response by providing a tighter seal. Silicone tips, on the other hand, tend to offer a more balanced sound and are generally more durable for daily use.
- Filters and Dampening Mods: Some users go a step further by modding the internals of the ZS5, such as adding acoustic dampening material to reduce harsh treble or tuning the vents to adjust the bass response. These mods require more technical expertise, but for DIY enthusiasts, the ZS5 offers a lot of potential for experimentation.
8. Durability and Longevity
For a budget IEM, the KZ ZS5 holds up reasonably well in terms of durability. The plastic housing is lightweight but feels sturdy enough to withstand daily use. The detachable cable design is a key advantage in terms of longevity, as it allows users to replace the cable if it gets damaged without needing to replace the entire IEM.
However, some users have reported issues with the build quality over time, such as loose connectors or minor cosmetic damage to the housing. The ZS5 may not be as rugged as more expensive models with metal housings, but with proper care and maintenance, it should provide a reliable listening experience for a reasonable amount of time.
9. Value for Money
One of the main selling points of the KZ ZS5 is its incredible value for money. At its price point, the ZS5 offers a level of performance and technology that was previously only available in much more expensive IEMs. The hybrid 2DD+2BA configuration, wide soundstage, and engaging V-shaped sound signature make the ZS5 a fantastic option for budget-conscious audiophiles or casual listeners looking to experience high-quality sound without breaking the bank.
While the ZS5 has its drawbacks, such as the recessed mids and sometimes harsh treble, its overall performance is impressive for its price. For listeners who enjoy bass-heavy, energetic sound signatures, the ZS5 is a great choice. Additionally, the potential for customization and modding adds even more value, as users can fine-tune the sound and comfort to suit their preferences.
10. Conclusion
The KZ ZS5 is a standout budget IEM that delivers an impressive combination of powerful bass, sparkling treble, and wide soundstage thanks to its 2DD+2BA hybrid driver configuration. Its bold design, detachable cable, and potential for customization make it a popular choice among audio enthusiasts. While the V-shaped sound signature may not appeal to everyone—particularly those who prefer forward mids or a more neutral sound—the ZS5 excels in genres like electronic, hip-hop, and rock, where bass and treble are key elements of the music.
For its price, the KZ ZS5 offers an outstanding value, providing a taste of high-end hybrid IEM technology without the high-end price tag. It’s not without its flaws, but for listeners seeking an affordable IEM with a fun, engaging sound, the KZ ZS5 is hard to beat.