The KZ ZS5 is a popular model from KZ (Knowledge Zenith), a brand known for offering affordable IEMs (in-ear monitors) with impressive sound quality. The ZS5, like many of KZ’s models, caught the attention of audiophiles and casual listeners alike, largely due to its unique design, multiple drivers, and value-for-money proposition. However, one of the most discussed aspects of any IEM is its frequency response, as it greatly influences the sound signature, and therefore, the listening experience.
In this review, we will take an in-depth look at the KZ ZS5’s frequency response, analyzing its bass, midrange, and treble performance. We will also discuss the role of its hybrid driver configuration in shaping the sound, compare it with other IEMs in the same price range, and evaluate how the frequency response affects different genres of music.
Table of Contents
1. Understanding Frequency Response
Before diving into the specifics of the KZ ZS5’s frequency response, it’s important to understand what frequency response means in the context of audio equipment. In simple terms, frequency response refers to how well a device, such as a speaker or IEM, reproduces sound across different frequencies, from the lowest bass notes to the highest treble.
The human ear typically hears frequencies ranging from 20 Hz (the lowest bass) to 20,000 Hz (20 kHz, the highest treble). An IEM’s frequency response curve visually represents how much emphasis is placed on different parts of this spectrum. A flat frequency response would mean that all frequencies are reproduced at the same volume level, creating a neutral sound. However, most IEMs have peaks and valleys in their frequency response, leading to varying sound signatures—some emphasizing bass, others highlighting treble, and so on.
2. Overview of the KZ ZS5’s Driver Configuration
The KZ ZS5 uses a hybrid driver configuration, which is an interesting feature for an IEM at its price point. Specifically, it has four drivers per ear: two dynamic drivers and two balanced armature (BA) drivers. This combination of dynamic and BA drivers is designed to offer a broader and more accurate frequency response, with the dynamic drivers handling the lower frequencies (bass) and the BA drivers taking care of the midrange and treble.
In theory, this setup should allow for a more detailed and precise sound across the frequency spectrum, with less distortion at higher volumes. But how does this translate into actual listening experience? Let’s break it down.
3. Bass Response (20 Hz – 250 Hz)
A. Sub-Bass (20 Hz – 60 Hz)
The sub-bass region represents the deepest bass frequencies, typically felt rather than heard. In this range, the KZ ZS5 delivers a powerful response, but not to the point of being overwhelming. The dual dynamic drivers are capable of reaching these low frequencies with authority, providing a rumble that is satisfying, especially for bass-heavy genres such as EDM, hip-hop, and electronic music.
Listeners who enjoy deep bass will appreciate the presence in this region, but the sub-bass is relatively controlled. While there is a slight boost, it avoids the muddy, overpowering sound that some IEMs with excessive bass can produce. However, the ZS5 doesn’t deliver the tightest sub-bass response when compared to higher-end models, where precision and detail are key.
B. Mid-Bass (60 Hz – 250 Hz)
The mid-bass region contributes to the “punch” and “impact” of the bass, and this is where the KZ ZS5 shows more of its character. There is a noticeable boost in the mid-bass, giving the overall sound signature a warm, full-bodied feel. Bass guitars, kick drums, and other low-frequency instruments come through with decent energy, making the ZS5 a good option for genres like rock, pop, and metal, where bass needs to be present but not overwhelming.
That said, the mid-bass can occasionally bleed into the lower midrange, which may affect the clarity of vocals and other instruments in some tracks. While this is not a deal-breaker, it does mean that the KZ ZS5 is not the most neutral IEM in terms of bass response. Fans of a more V-shaped sound signature (where bass and treble are elevated compared to the mids) will likely enjoy this tuning, but audiophiles seeking a more balanced, neutral response might find the mid-bass a little too emphasized.
4. Midrange Response (250 Hz – 4 kHz)
A. Lower Mids (250 Hz – 1 kHz)
The lower midrange is crucial for the reproduction of male vocals, guitars, and other instruments that occupy this frequency band. The KZ ZS5’s lower mids are slightly recessed, in line with the V-shaped sound signature that many KZ IEMs tend to exhibit. As a result, male vocals can sometimes feel a bit distant, and some instruments, such as acoustic guitars and pianos, may lack the full-bodied warmth that other IEMs with a more neutral tuning provide.
This doesn’t mean that the ZS5’s midrange is poor, but it’s clear that the emphasis is more on the bass and treble. For listeners who enjoy a sound that emphasizes bass and highs, this recess in the midrange might be desirable, as it creates a sense of space and separation. However, for those who prioritize vocal clarity and midrange detail, the ZS5 might not be the best option.
B. Upper Mids (1 kHz – 4 kHz)
The upper midrange is where female vocals, higher-pitched instruments, and the presence region of the sound reside. The KZ ZS5 does a decent job in this area, with a slight peak around the 2 kHz to 3 kHz range. This gives female vocals and certain instruments, such as violins and lead guitars, a bit more presence and clarity compared to the lower mids.
However, the peak in the upper mids is not as pronounced as in some other KZ models, which means that the ZS5 avoids the harshness or sibilance that can plague IEMs with overly aggressive upper midrange tuning. For listeners who enjoy a smooth, non-fatiguing sound, this is a positive aspect of the ZS5’s frequency response.
5. Treble Response (4 kHz – 20 kHz)
A. Lower Treble (4 kHz – 8 kHz)
The lower treble region contributes to the sparkle and detail in the sound, and the KZ ZS5 delivers a somewhat boosted response in this area. Cymbals, hi-hats, and other high-frequency percussion instruments come through with good clarity, giving tracks a sense of brightness and airiness. This boost helps balance out the bass-heavy tuning, ensuring that the ZS5 doesn’t sound too dark or muddy.
However, some users might find the treble a bit too aggressive, especially at higher volumes. While the ZS5 avoids the sharpness and piercing highs of some other budget IEMs, it still has a slight edge that may be fatiguing for listeners sensitive to treble.
B. Upper Treble (8 kHz – 20 kHz)
The upper treble region contributes to the sense of air and openness in a soundstage, and this is where the KZ ZS5 shines. Thanks to the balanced armature drivers handling the higher frequencies, the ZS5 manages to create a fairly spacious soundstage, especially for an IEM in this price range. The extension into the upper treble is impressive, allowing for a level of detail and separation that surpasses many competitors at a similar price point.
While the treble can occasionally verge on being too bright, especially for listeners who prefer a warmer, more laid-back sound signature, it’s not as fatiguing as other IEMs with overly aggressive treble tuning.
6. Soundstage and Imaging
The soundstage of the KZ ZS5 is above average for an in-ear monitor, largely thanks to the hybrid driver setup and the emphasis on treble. The ZS5 creates a sense of space that is wider than many budget IEMs, giving the listener the impression that the sound is coming from outside the ears, rather than from inside the head.
Imaging, or the ability to place instruments and vocals accurately in the soundstage, is also decent. While it’s not on par with more expensive multi-driver IEMs or over-ear headphones, the ZS5 does a good job of separating different elements of the mix, making it easier to distinguish individual instruments and vocal layers.
This makes the ZS5 a good choice for genres like classical, jazz, and acoustic music, where soundstage and imaging are important for an immersive listening experience.
7. Comparative Analysis: KZ ZS5 vs Competitors
When comparing the KZ ZS5’s frequency response to other IEMs in its price range, several key differences emerge.
A. KZ ZS5 vs KZ ZS6
The KZ ZS6 is often considered the successor to the ZS5, and it features a similar hybrid driver configuration. However, the ZS6 has a more aggressive treble tuning, which some listeners find too harsh. The ZS5, by comparison, has a smoother, more relaxed treble, making it a better choice for those who prefer a less fatiguing sound signature.
In terms of bass, both models offer a similar level of sub-bass and mid-bass emphasis, but the ZS6 tends to have slightly more controlled bass, while the ZS5 can occasionally sound a bit bloated in the mid-bass region.
B. KZ ZS5 vs Tin T2
The Tin T2 is another popular IEM in the same price range as the KZ ZS5, but it has a vastly different sound signature. Where the KZ ZS5 has a V-shaped tuning with emphasized bass and treble, the Tin T2 is known for its more neutral and balanced sound. The Tin T2 has a flatter frequency response, which makes it more suitable for listeners who prefer a more accurate, detailed sound that doesn’t favor any particular frequency range.
In the bass region, the Tin T2 is noticeably less emphasized than the KZ ZS5. It delivers tighter, more controlled bass, but it doesn’t have the same punch or sub-bass rumble that the ZS5 offers. For listeners who enjoy bass-heavy genres, the KZ ZS5 might be a more satisfying option, while the Tin T2 is better suited for those who prioritize clarity and precision over impact.
In the midrange, the Tin T2 shines with more forward and detailed mids, particularly in the vocal range. Male and female vocals sound more natural and present on the Tin T2 compared to the more recessed mids of the KZ ZS5. This makes the Tin T2 a better choice for vocal-centric genres like jazz, folk, and classical music.
In terms of treble, the Tin T2 has a smoother, more laid-back treble compared to the brighter and more energetic treble of the KZ ZS5. While the ZS5’s treble adds a sense of excitement and sparkle, it can also be fatiguing for some listeners. The Tin T2’s treble, on the other hand, is more refined and less likely to cause listening fatigue, making it a more comfortable option for long listening sessions.
C. KZ ZS5 vs BLON BL-03
The BLON BL-03 is another well-regarded budget IEM, known for its warm and smooth sound signature. In comparison to the KZ ZS5, the BLON BL-03 has a more mid-focused tuning with a less pronounced V-shape. This results in a more cohesive sound with smoother transitions between the bass, mids, and treble.
In the bass region, the BLON BL-03 offers a similar level of mid-bass punch but with a slightly more natural and textured presentation. The BL-03’s bass is less boomy and more controlled than the KZ ZS5, making it a better option for those who prefer a more refined bass response without the excessive bloat that can sometimes affect the ZS5.
The midrange is where the BLON BL-03 truly excels. Its mids are more forward and lifelike, with vocals and instruments sounding richer and more engaging compared to the recessed mids of the ZS5. For genres like acoustic, classical, and vocal music, the BL-03 offers a more natural and balanced presentation.
The treble of the BL-03 is less prominent than that of the ZS5, with a smoother, more relaxed high-end. While the ZS5’s treble adds more sparkle and detail, the BL-03’s treble is less fatiguing and more forgiving on poorly recorded tracks. Overall, the BLON BL-03 offers a more relaxed and laid-back sound signature compared to the more aggressive, V-shaped tuning of the KZ ZS5.
8. Ideal Listening Scenarios for the KZ ZS5
Given its V-shaped sound signature, the KZ ZS5 excels in certain musical genres and listening scenarios. Its boosted bass and treble make it an excellent choice for genres that thrive on energetic, dynamic soundscapes, such as:
- Electronic Music: The powerful sub-bass and punchy mid-bass of the ZS5 are well-suited to genres like EDM, house, and dubstep. The deep bass response gives electronic tracks the rumble and impact they need, while the treble adds a sense of excitement to high-frequency synths and effects.
- Rock and Metal: For rock and metal fans, the ZS5 offers the energy and drive needed to bring out the aggression and intensity of distorted guitars, drums, and vocals. The mid-bass punch adds weight to guitar riffs and kick drums, while the elevated treble enhances the clarity of cymbals and high-pitched vocals.
- Hip-Hop and R&B: The ZS5’s bass response makes it a good option for bass-heavy hip-hop and R&B tracks. The sub-bass delivers the low-end rumble that is essential for modern trap beats, while the mid-bass adds impact to the rhythmic elements of the music.
However, the KZ ZS5 may not be the best choice for all genres. Its recessed midrange can make it less suitable for vocal-centric genres like jazz, folk, and classical music, where a more forward and detailed midrange is desirable. Additionally, listeners who prefer a more neutral or balanced sound signature may find the ZS5’s V-shaped tuning to be too colored or exaggerated for their tastes.
9. Customization and Equalization
One of the advantages of IEMs like the KZ ZS5 is the ability to tailor the sound to your preferences through equalization (EQ). By adjusting the frequency response using an EQ, you can either enhance or mitigate certain aspects of the ZS5’s sound signature to better suit your listening preferences.
- Boosting the Mids: For listeners who find the midrange too recessed, boosting the 500 Hz to 2 kHz range using an EQ can bring vocals and midrange instruments forward in the mix. This can help create a more balanced sound for genres that rely heavily on vocals and acoustic instruments.
- Taming the Treble: If the treble is too aggressive or fatiguing, reducing the 6 kHz to 10 kHz range can help smooth out the highs and create a more relaxed listening experience. This is particularly useful for listeners who are sensitive to treble or who listen to music at higher volumes.
- Controlling the Bass: If the bass is too boomy or overpowering, a slight reduction in the 60 Hz to 250 Hz range can help tighten up the bass response and prevent it from bleeding into the midrange. This can result in a cleaner, more controlled low-end, especially for genres that require precision and clarity.
By experimenting with different EQ settings, listeners can fine-tune the KZ ZS5 to match their specific preferences, making it a more versatile IEM for a wide range of musical genres.
10. Conclusion: Is the KZ ZS5 Worth It?
The KZ ZS5 is a solid performer in the budget IEM category, offering a unique combination of a hybrid driver configuration and a V-shaped sound signature at an affordable price. Its powerful bass, energetic treble, and spacious soundstage make it a great choice for listeners who enjoy dynamic, exciting sound with an emphasis on bass and treble.
However, the ZS5 is not without its drawbacks. Its recessed midrange and slightly boomy bass may not appeal to audiophiles who prefer a more neutral or balanced sound. Additionally, its treble can be a bit aggressive for some listeners, especially at higher volumes. Despite these shortcomings, the KZ ZS5 offers excellent value for money and is a strong contender in the budget IEM market.
For those who enjoy bass-heavy genres like electronic, rock, and hip-hop, the KZ ZS5 is a great choice that delivers a fun and engaging listening experience. For listeners who prefer a more balanced or mid-centric sound, there are other options in the same price range, such as the Tin T2 or BLON BL-03, that may offer a better fit. Ultimately, the KZ ZS5’s frequency response makes it a versatile IEM for many, but it shines brightest in genres where bass and treble take center stage.