7hz Salnotes Zero - Mr. Clean or Mr. Brightside?

[@MR.ROBOTVOLTRON]

I've never had any spine tingling moments listening to any 20 dollar IEMs till this one. This is really great advertising for their more expensive models because this one is tuned so excellent. Great for metal and rock. I'm just putting it through it's paces. So far male voices really shine to me and are very defined. Especially in tracks where male or females growl or scream into the mic. Their words are very audible. Resolution for this money is fantastic. Bass is surprisingly warm and has good technical abilities. Don't let the graph fool you. This has more grit and growl than Moondrop Chu by a wide margin. It reaches deeper than that Dunu Titan S on bass in many tracks. So it has enough bass for most people. The treble is excellent. For any price this is a good IEM up to the 100 dollar level. Moondrop Chu still has it's place if you want a more analytical approach or to watch videos and audiobooks. This Zero is just better in almost every aspect. It competes with the T3 Plus and Aria. I have the both of the T3 Plus and Aria. I am amazed at this 20 dollar IEM. T3 Plus is a bit boomy with not enough treble and bass definition for my taste. I would take these any day over that. Except when I want to listen to really bass heavy tracks. Then maybe I would go T3 Plus but these Zero also fit better to me so maybe not.

[@PaulWasabii]

Thanks for all your thoughts here and happy you love the Zero. That was literally my feedback to 7hz, this should be their entry to a more expensive DD. Doesn't hurt that Crinacle helped. But yeah, they seem to have lots of sets on the planning board so I think you might get your wish.

[@desiredeath894]

Hi, great to hear someone into metal giving his insights on the IEM. I want to ask, how do you think of the separation and clarity? I have been listening mostly to prog metal and melodic death metal lately and they have usually have many sounds happening at the same time. Do you think the 7hz Zero will handle it well?

[@MR.ROBOTVOLTRON]

@@desiredeath894 it can get congested if too many instruments are going on at the same time. That's something the Dunu Titan S could probably handle better. They do good enough at this price compared to all the other budget IEMs though.

[@MR.ROBOTVOLTRON]

@@PaulWasabii I hope so. I would definitely get this. If they tried to one up the T3 plus and Aria tuning with a better DD in that price point. Maybe go after the Mele crowd.

[@MR.ROBOTVOLTRON]

@@desiredeath894 having said that.. I just bought the EDA balanced. If you just want to rock out those hit way harder. At a little more low fi quality by just a tad bit. You trade the slightly audiophile quality for fun energetic visceral response.

[@archeryandstuffwithstevela3423]

As a guitarist who doesn’t want to spend thousands on custom IEMs, and mainly looking for a monitor to use on stage. A neutral in ear is pretty much what I’m looking for. On the bright side I can control the levels of each musician and singer with an app on my phone. All of the reviews of the Zero, give me the sense that it would be good for my needs.

[@PaulWasabii]

Exactly. I controlled mine with a small square of micropore tape. As I mentioned, its just a tiny bit over for me. Certainly doesn't mean it will be for you or anyone else. But yes, if you have some control, then getting from neutral barely bright to more neutral shouldn't be hard.

[@josaphcj7199]

What app is that bro?

[@quadrannilator]

Lately the planars are rocking it out of the park, and such sets are rocking at the bottom of the prices, and collabs are also giving us sets that sound so good for so little price (think Olina and Dioko). In all this competition it is easy to get lost about first prioritising the compatibility of an IEM with your personal ear's hrtf tuning and listening/signature preferences, than focusing on price and thinking, is Chu, Zero, Zero, CRA, etc the best of them all... I think the intro very nicely explained that, urging people to go after their preference than what a reviewer thinks is the best. I'm pretty sure that all the regular folks who follow this hobby have figured which reviewer signature they like most, 😅

[@PaulWasabii]

You are right. After Chu was highly praised and then people bought it and discovered that it is not aligned to the preferences, then the Chu sucks messages started. Chu and Zero are great, but they need to be great for you and your music. TRI KAI is at the other end, great set also but for a different listener and library. Too often everyone wants to call everything great but then you get a Chu situation where the devil is in the details on the great and great for whom.

[@jasonosmondfernandes8525]

Hey Paul. I really like the fact that you have a balanced point of view based on libraries and preferences. Plus you've been replying all the comments. You've got a new subscriber.

[@PaulWasabii]

Thanks. I am not a huge fan of reviews without cons or considerations. No doubt Zero is a great set, I just want people to take a step back and think about their library, have you ever called a set harsh, not enough bass, or on the the other side, you really notice stage or clean bass. Everyone has a priority list and my nitpicks may not even make your top 3. But I'd rather mention them than just saw everything is awesome. Thank you for the comment about comments. Part of the unseen world of reviewing, you should respond to comments. I also hang out here: facebook.com/groups/hopesanddriams

[@jasonosmondfernandes8525]

@@PaulWasabii good afternoon to you Paul. I agree. It's a challenge as preferences can really be quite challenging depending on my hearing. It took a while and a few simple mods to get the absolute most out of my Lea and Olina. I am challenged by treble sensitivity but I guess my ear drums are just aging. I always appreciate the challenge of communicating with a community. And being engaging just adds that extra dose of happiness to the viewer. Good job. I'll check out the resource you linked. Cheers!

[@dropyvisuals4355]

This is the perfect review, mine is still on shipping. 😅 This hyped me so much thanks! Your channel should blow up anytime by now!

[@PaulWasabii]

Good luck. We went through a period of very slow shipping and now it is better for me. Hope you enjoy it

[@mrxcs]

I think is an 'A' both for music and gaming, but I use Tangzu Wan'er for music (A+ because of the extra tremble detail) and HD58X for Gaming (A+ significant more sound stage, slight better imaging, and very slight more sound quality). But useless you want to spend US$140 on a headset, 7hz Salnotes Zero is the way to go for gaming, 85%~90% of the quality for 14% of the price. I still use them for gaming over HD58X when the day is too hot. Note: I use a flat profile + custom EQ for all of them with Equalizer APO.

[@emjay9733]

Great nuanced review. Library really does make a huge difference!

[@PaulWasabii]

Yeah, Zero is versatile, but sets that push the upper mid like Zero or drop the mid bass down like Zero, you need to consider how that affects your library and the parts of tracks you really enjoy.

[@koningklootzak7788]

I've tried the tape on vent hole technique. While I did notice increase in bass, I felt more cramped/pressured feeling in ears too. Then I did some research on vent holes. They are there for reasons, to release pressure or/and to increase sounds stage on iem. The manufacturer put those vent holes for reasons. I took the tape off after 2 weeks use with the holes sealed, and I now do feel soundstage is wider and also less cramped/pressured feeling in ears. I now use the yellow tips with narrower bore without tapes on the holes. This is good enough to make it a bit bassier than red tips. It's possible you're creating negative effect on your hearing with extra pressure by sealing these vent holes. No more taping the vent holes for me.

[@PaulWasabii]

Pressure build up is a problem for some people. I have used IEMs without vents. It just affects some people more than others and some sets more than others. You are the 2nd person to mention it on Zero. Mostly just want to give people an option if they feal it is too bright, something reversible to try. I typically use micropore tape as well which isn't far from the material on the filter on the inside of that vent.

[@koningklootzak7788]

@@PaulWasabii some IEMs don't have vents for reasons, while others do have for reasons. I think it's the least you could do to mention possible adverse effects, as well as your viewers should take all responsibility if anything negative occurs to buds or to their ears, unless you are willing to compensate off any problems occur.

[@Belcanto401]

Great video as always. Thanks for sharing the tips on how to tame the Zero's brightness due to the source. I do not have micro pore tape on hand. However, I have some cloth tapes (by Johnson & Johnson) so I use that instead with good result. Cloth tapes are readily available at local drug stores and they are cheap.

[@PaulWasabii]

Yes, basically you want something that is not solid. MIcropore may just be the brand name from 3M. In any case, it is cheap and you can try different sized pieces easily. Small squares or even strips. Try to find the minimal piece that makes you happy. I would rather have you enjoy your set with a small piece of tape than tossing it in the drawer because it is a bit sharp or bright.

[@charongrayi4863]

I was long wating for your review on 7hz salnotes zero. 20min long, very satisfying detailed review, Thanks 👍 Does Apple or VE Odyssey dongles and spinfit cp100 suits and helps with bass? Waiting for your impression on upcoming HBB's 20$ set and Maka.

[@PaulWasabii]

Sorry, I know too long on this one. As I mentioned, my feeling is two fold, first a dongle is going to get slightly better sound quality that is noticeable with big open mids like on Zero. Second, I do like a warmer source as the sound is lean and not sure either of those dongles are on the warm side. For tips, Larry Fulton recommended SONY EP-EX11 which is more low end help and less upper mids. Similar to Final E tips. Something with a small bore is going to help. I know other people are going to think its right on the spot, but just on the fence for me in those two areas for me with my music.

[@epergne]

Got my Zero yesterday. Happy so far. Great value, build, design, appealing sound for pop, electronic, rock genres. Cable looks nice and is acceptable quality for the price. Listening to classical last night and I'd say these are not great. They lacked detail and gave a kind of 'surface' presentation of the music without much separation or soundstage. The sub-bass was unnaturally intrusive at times, also. Still, they sound great for modern, popular genres.

[@Pedzz]

Got mine 1 week ago and Yeah I really enjoyed it, the bass is not bloated and the treble is not peaky compared from my old IEM (KZ EDX) the mids are clear and the soundstage is more wider compared to my $10 set.

[@MTCypher]

@@Pedzz Would you say this is good for synthwave my second fav genre after metal ofc

[@Pedzz]

@@MTCypher im not sure, because the 7hz salnotes Zero is midbass light and quite forward upper midrange and a peak at the upper frequency

[@MTCypher]

@@Pedzz i mean is it gonna do really good with EQ?! Also what would you recommend as a budget synthwave/vaporwave/citypop IEM Thanks for the help 😊

[@Pedzz]

​@@MTCypher Yes EQ can fix some issues of the Salnotes zero but again I am not famiiar with your library so I really cant do much, but for me its either you choose the salnotes zero for the neutral bright presentation with ample amount of bass or the qkzxhbb for Heavy bass with ample amount of mids and high frequency.

[@J7T800]

Even after placing my order, I'm still out to watch different reviewers for this IEM. Everyone listens to music differently, and it's interesting to see various feedback from people that have formed their own preference, in terms of what sound signature they like.

[@PaulWasabii]

Indeed, I enjoy watching other reviewers who prefer different signatures. There are some sets that are divisive and always interesting to get the set in your ears and see where you agree and where you don't. It is a good way to get to know reviewers. I already see a few reviewers leaning the way I did, wishing the balance was less bright and other reviewers who love it. With Dioko I will probably fall the other way, I like it more than others.

[@GEMSofGOD_com]

I've almost died EQing these pringles cans. You'll still hear LOTS of hissing. Wavelet's EQ is roughly the best.

[@baushun332]

What is the minimun requirement to enjoy this earphone, like dap, dac, bit rate, eq, etc...

[@PaulWasabii]

Plug it into your phone. There are really no minimum reqs on a set like this. But it has great clarity so having a dac/dap/flac/mqa or anything that offers a higher quality of playback will be reflected thru the Zero.

[@simpleuserYT]

Hi. Just bought these and they are my entry in to the iem world. I'm learning new things about audio daily. Did crinacle tune these? Also they are very good sounding for a novice ear.

[@PaulWasabii]

Yes, Crinacle had a part in the tuning or at least consulted with Salnotes.

[@d0nant0ni0]

Nicely nuanced review, thank you Paul. Given your experience, do you think 7hz zero would be suitable for reference checking and editing music mixes using professional audio interface? Mostly soundtracks, orchestral, electronic with elaborate instrumentation. I'd prefer neutral sound, wide range frequency response, good separation of instruments. Basically hear it as it is. Maybe you could suggest something else up to $50 pricepoint.

[@PaulWasabii]

Neutral is tough with in-ears because of pinna gain compensation. Zero in particular is just a bit bright for me and its right in that 2-3k area. That takes it off as it is for me, but that may not be the case for you. And that is the gist of why neutral recommendations are hard. But I'd say it is a good starting place though for you to figure out if that signature works for you or not. It is a real tough topic as most IEMs are colored and boosted. Another place to look would be the older Tinhfi T2. To be honest, I think most people pick a set and mentally work out the compensation from IEM to speakers or use headphones where it is less of an issue and signatures are flatter.

[@d0nant0ni0]

@@PaulWasabii sure it is all subjective and everything is relative. 3 different people would hear the same live violin performance differently. So in a way, everyone has an unique hearing and perception signature. After watching many of your reviews I can say we have many similarities in our signatures. After some research I've also realized I need to step up at least to $100 to get what I want from iems. Signature close to EJ07M is what I am after. Given your experience what sets would be close in representation and feel in $100 ballpark? I have an option to buy s12pro for that price but they seem to be not exactly studio accurate. Thank you very much for your contribution to this feild. Watching your (and also Michael Bruce's) reviews and reading comments under them gave a perspective and also saved me from ordering sets that are far from what I need.

[@delicrux]

I can't test yet but I think a portable dac amp like the fiio Q3 is a great pairing for this. The dac has a gain button and bass boost that works really well I like neutral sound so I don't typically boost the bass but it should allow that slam without losing a lot of detail. Or just some light eqing.

[@PaulWasabii]

Bass boost in dac/amps is super handy and typically easier than trying to get EQ right. Even in Wavelet, I will try bass boost preset and adjust from there.

[@matusjurcik6974]

Yo! The stock tips are responsible for that soundstage effect that u were describing in the video (My waner just arrived and I am quite busy with it right now, figuring out things 😄).

[@PaulWasabii]

Yep, tips and ears. I mention tips on occasion but rarely take anyone's advice on them. Need to really try it for yourself and figure out which tips work with your ears as that might not be the same as my ears.

[@matusjurcik6974]

@@PaulWasabii I mean, I heard the same as you did (with the stock tips) so... also usually when I hear something more up within the soundstage thats also partialy because of the less lower mids/mid bass and more upper mids treble and that is what the stock tips do (wide bore grey/black). So the cp145 then changed that hall effect a bit and made it more even (but some of it is still there) they brought more lower mids/upper to midbass and rafined that upper mids and treble 😊 this changes will always affect shape of the stage. I agree different braines can evaluate heard things captured by ears differently. But I assume that I propably evaluate things similarly.

[@theawppenheimer]

Thank you for this detailed review, i had a kz zsn pro x and i really liked them but they got damaged and i want to order new IEM's, coming from the kz zsn pro x, do you think the zero would suit me? and is there any better alternitaves in the same price range? i honestly thought of buying both, but if there's any other IEM that would be an upgrade over the kz's or the zero's i would like to know! Thanks in advance! :D

[@PaulWasabii]

As I harped on the bass in the video for too long, that is going to be one difference when you switch from KZ. KZ likes a fuller, more fun sound. Zero is really minimal mid bass and less fun, cleaner, more technical. If you want to stick in the KZ family, KZ EDA balance. Otherwise give Zero as chance and see if that cleaner sound is something that appeals to you.

[@loftlike]

I understand that in this price range, the IEM's don't have good mics but do the Zero's have mics on them? By the way, thanks for your very frank and clear review.

[@PaulWasabii]

The microphone is not include or even a low cost option from the manufacturer. Linsoul will bundle one for an additional $12usd. In the addon section: www.linsoul.com/products/7hz-salnotes-zero?variant=43200799146201 Tripowin Grace Mic Cable

[@loftlike]

@@PaulWasabii ahh thanks!

[@kylianhaaland7054]

The zero comes with 3 types of stock tips with 2 sizes for all of them. Can you tell me about which tips have what kind of sound signature? I'm finding it really hard to locate the differences with just my ears. I haven't been in this hobby for a long time

[@PaulWasabii]

Tips don't have a sound signature, they tend to emphasize or de-emphasize what is there. The problem with Zero and tips, it is bright and that is going to be the majority of what you hear. Even if you use the smaller bore tips which can emphasize bass, it won't change the sound signature enough to hear. Now if the other set is wider bore, it can make it sound brighter, but volume would play a bigger part. Basically tips aren't specific to sets, you can try as many tips on each set that you buy, never throw tips away as you might like them on a different set or fit better than another set.

[@somesfurious6968]

I'm need a budget IEM to use in my lg v60 which have DAC ! But I'm confused between 7hz Zero vs Blon bl03 which is gonna be my first IEM. Please suggest me and Thank you !

[@PaulWasabii]

Blon has a lot of bass so if your library sounds better with more bass, then BLO03. If your music is less bass centric, then Zero which is more mids/treble

[@somesfurious6968]

@@PaulWasabii thank you !

[@-ver6459]

The only reason why I wanna buy a new IEM right now because my KZ ZSN PRO X is ear-piercing. I just can't stand using it for over an hour.

[@PaulWasabii]

So this is my nitpick with Zero, it is still a small bit over. Not like ZSN Pro X, that is a different level. So I would consider Zero if you still like a good amount of treble or one of the newer KZ models like ESX or EDA if you want a similar KZ bassy sound but less piercing.

[@-ver6459]

@@PaulWasabii I'll give it some thought. Thank you replying!

[@vijeykumar7429]

I just bought them. I've heard the different coloured tips can change the sound but how does each sound? and which gives more bass?

[@PaulWasabii]

For most people, the taller, narrower bore set will increase base. The other set is shorter and wider. You can also jump to the end of my review and see that piece of clear tape on the vent will give you a slight bump in bass too.

[@vijeykumar7429]

@@PaulWasabii thanks man! That really helped boost the bass, but now I feel it's not that neutral any more and the mids are a bit recessed now. Anyway, gosh are those tips hard to put on.

[@mahakbhatewara3511]

Are these comfortable while sleeping?

[@PaulWasabii]

You are asking the wrong person, I can't sleep with those in my ears. There are smaller bullet style sets that are more comfortable like KZ Ling Long

[@mahakbhatewara3511]

@@PaulWasabii okay. Thanks!

[@reformierende_person]

mine is currently shipping. would acapella work great with this IEM? mainly listening to VoicePlay and Pentatonix. curious to hear what neutral bright tuning sounds like and whether I could still hear Male Bass singers when they all sang together

[@PaulWasabii]

I would try different tips, a set with a smaller bore might shift the sound a tiny bit in that direction.

[@glendonhunk-l3j]

this could be a great start!

[@Pedzz]

I just placed my order in this set because I was curious how a neutralish bright IEM sounds like from a V shape listener perspective

[@PaulWasabii]

As I mentioned, part of the difference will simply be your tracks and instruments used. I said the same on Chu, with some tracks it will be more neutral than bright. Others will be more bright. I think you are on the money though, it is $20usd to try a tuning that in the past would have cost quite a bit more. Second, sets like Zero will give you a window into reviewer's preferences. I would change a couple things but I know others will love it straight out of the box so match that with your own thoughts on it.

[@Pedzz]

@@PaulWasabii I see thanks man🙏, Im new here in audiophile world and my first IEM was the KZ EDX and the 7hz Salnotes will be my 2nd IEM. I don't really like the peak from the KZ EDX it hurts my ears in some KZbin videos and many female singers is so peaky sometimes. I have checked your squig and compared the treble and the 7hz zero has less peaks compared to the KZ EDX tho it has less bass. And I think I have used the wrong words to my comment Im sorry about that, I made it look like I have listened to many IEM that are V shaped 😂 but its clearly not. I usually listen to a lot of pop and some edm.

[@PaulWasabii]

@@Pedzz No worries. You have the gist of it, Zero is less peaky and less bass so sounds a bit brighter but not necessarily peaky at all. The trick to peaks is figuring out which bother you and which do not. With Zero, you will get a feel for how bass interacts with those upper mids. EDX has more bass to counter some of that peakiness. Zero is less bass and less peaks as it should be but you will figure out if it is enough bass for your library.

[@NewDarkKnight]

Get the kz esx if you want relaxed bassy sound

[@Pedzz]

I was planning to buy the ESX but I was worried that it wont fit me well because i have small ears and the nozzle of ESX is much longer than usual

[@manhealme]

Between the KZ EDA Balanced vs 7hz Salnotes Zero, which one would suit me more? I listen to alot of EDM, Sawano Hiroyuki tracks, some Japanese artists, KPOP and a bit of alternative rock

[@PaulWasabii]

You almost have to look at the bass levels. EDA Balanced is the bassier set and that is everything for some people. If you don't really listen to a lot of bass tracks, then Zero is that clean and clear set.

[@0451arthur]

I still don't get why you use these papers, but at this point it has became the charm of your channel :)

[@PaulWasabii]

I know. I use paper to keep from going off on tangents and making shorter reviews, more to the point. All that went out the door on Zero. I am thinking of a director's re-cut to make it shorter. Secondarily, I follow reviewers who do not speak English and I know there are more non-English speakers who follow English reviewers so I make it slightly easier to follow along with notes and timecodes tracking the notes.

[@0451arthur]

@@PaulWasabii That's a good idea

[@shsleo]

I listen to a lot of trap, rap and rnb and chu has just enough bass for me, since it's not that expensive I think you just have to try and see it fits your library, I also listen to other styles, so far nothing to complain with chu (I'm no audiophile)

[@PaulWasabii]

Yes, a lot of it is library. If your music sits in the lower end and doesn't hit that 3-5k brighter region much, you get plenty of bass especially with a good fit. Sometimes people just hear "great set" and don't consider if it is a great set for their library. Anyway, glad to hear the stories when the right people find the right set.

[@jamzu6842]

So the clear tape on the vent is for a little bass boost and the micropore on noozle is for tone down the upper mid and treble energy right?

[@PaulWasabii]

Pretty much. Tape on the vent is minimal, putting something on the nozzle will have a bigger effect on that pinna gain area. Go conservative on the micropore, unless you want to take it down quite a bit.

[@jamzu6842]

@@PaulWasabii I see, yeah when I get my hands on the zero, pretty much just want more midbass presence so the tape vent mod is gonna be the first thing I do.

[@Smzxe]

@@jamzu6842 LOL don't cover that hole it will create vaccum in the ear driver will get affected by that too That vaccum can cause eardrum pressure to be low which is bad for hearing

[@owlxyz]

hey @Paul what if i put extra 400 grade mesh on the nozzle? can you measure by putting extra nozzle filter?

[@PaulWasabii]

I had that measured at some point, basically lowering pinna gain area a couple db. I was fine with it, other people didn't like it. If you consider it a hair too bright, then yeah, that is an easy thing to try.

[@whiskyeet]

I've got a pair on the way, hopefully a DAC livens them up a little with regards to bass.

[@PaulWasabii]

yeah if you have an xbass button or something like that will definitely get you in the right direction

[@ayushbhaumik7980]

How do these and Chu compare to final e500 sound wise? I have heard e500 is better for soundstage, precise imaging and instrument separation which are never found at this price range.

[@PaulWasabii]

E500 is a more relaxed set compared Chu and Zero. Zero is very clean, almost analytical. E500 is a bit more musical unless you prefer analytical. But yeah. E500 is actually a great set that not many people talk about. As a daily carry set, I pick something more musical like E500.

[@Smzxe]

E500 sounds dumb compared to zero Zero is much cleaner and transparent But both are garbage for me None of them has good midrange at all and lack luster bass

[@somegeezer4058]

E500 sounded very dull to me, no slam in the bass or sparkle at the top.

[@alp786]

Excellent review

[@PaulWasabii]

Glad you liked it!

[@EdgyEmoLoliconBoy]

I just cant look its killing meee

[@reformierende_person]

will this fit in my ear? I have a protruding ear with an inbetween small and middle ear canal.

[@caaaster]

First few songs on mines felt like magic but then after a few tracks again it kinda went ehhh? I'll still give this a try for a few days/weeks then decide. Thanks man 🤙

[@PaulWasabii]

Yeah, thousands can't be wrong. Mostly it comes down to preference, the driver and tuning are very good, but the question is how that aligns to your preferences like bass level.

[@arraby8590]

I tend to listen to edms/pop music in general, wuld u prefer these or cca cra+

[@PaulWasabii]

For me, pop music needs more bass so CRA+. If you like attention to detail and super clean, Zero.

[@eiko4252]

I'm curious how does the Zero compare to the T3+? Looking at the frequency response, they seem quite similar from around 300Hz onwards. I have the T3+, EQ'd to the HBB target and really like how that sounds. Then I have the CCA CRA combined with the KZ AZ09 Pro wireless adapter for sports, but even EQ'd, I haven't managed to get the CRA close to that T3+ sound I like so much (the peaks on CRA are quite hard to EQ). So the question is, would the Zero, EQ'd to that HBB target, do better as that sports wireless beater set? Can it handle EQ'ing the bass to HBB target or slightly above?

[@alexjasongalvez746]

I have both, no EQ. for me t3 plus has more bass energy zero sounds less compressed zero has slightly less recessed vocals compared to t3 plus. might distort at very high volume compared to t3 plus. If you don't have budget for t3 plus and willing to compromise for less bass and energetic exp. Edit: zero can present better small details for me.

[@PaulWasabii]

You are on the right track. T3+ is a bassier set, slightly more V shaped so the mids are slightly more recessed. Zero opens the mids, less bass masking details but you have to be ok with the reduced bass from T3+

[@squalllionheart7675]

I already have senfer dt6, tanchjim tanya & astrotec vesna. Tried chu but didnt like it. Would salnotes zero be the same? Considering also tanchjim zero..

[@PaulWasabii]

If you don't like Chu..if that is fit related, then yes try Zero. If you think your fit on Chu is fine and just don't like it, then Zero may be too close to that. Not sure on Tanchjim's Zero.

[@Josephine-r7b]

Is there a big diffrence between the 7hz Salnotes zero 1 & 2 or os it not worth it. I had bad experience when I swapped from my DCMEKA AO9

[@PaulWasabii]

The big difference was based on feedback from Zero 1, add more bass, less thin, less brightness. Zero 2 sounds fine, but it sounds like many other sets now, but for most people, Zero 2 will sound more appealing.

[@Josephine-r7b]

@@PaulWasabii in another words it's nothing appealing but exceptional 😸. I expected them to be good cuz my dcmekas are pretty old & same price range so anybody out there who's looking for specifically $20-$25 headphones there not bad I swear on my life they'll be worth probably even over the original Chu's, These are supposedly Hi-res audio via type c so there decent especially when you order no online mic to affect the sound performance or distortion rate possibly do to poor cabling on my 2nd pair I do apologize for large msg Its just no one hardly talks about them but that does make sense as I'm just still learning about headphones & why certain hidden gems don't get recognized

[@gercollins1520]

Hi Paul. I have 30 euros for 11.11. If you were to recommend one budget IEM from this year would it be the salnotes Zero?

[@PaulWasabii]

Yeah it is hard to beat Zero unless you are really adverse to bright sets. If you want something bassier/meatier, probably that QKZ HBB set looks nice. I also like the KZ EDA set. Most people will say Zero, but if you like bass heavy music, then go for a bassier set.

[@gercollins1520]

@@PaulWasabii thanks Paul. For all the good work all year too. Calm, reasoned and articulate. Much appreciated.

[@mokisan]

@@gercollins1520 so which iem did you end buying?

[@gercollins1520]

@@mokisan zero. With the 7hz 71 dac. In the post.

[@r91playsind]

Why did you put wide bore tip on one side and narrow bore tip on the other?

[@PaulWasabii]

Just to show both tips at once. No magic there, but I should try it one day now that you mentioned it.

[@MavisFT]

i'm currently using KZ Zex, does buying zero or chu is an upgrade in sound quality?

[@PaulWasabii]

A bit of an upgrade but really a different signature

[@ShadowStudioProductions]

what about listening to the weeknd's Discography

[@juhan9117]

Just wondering if you're going to review the dioko too!

[@PaulWasabii]

Dioko is in my ear as I type this. I am a Timeless fan and Dioko isn't far, just more affordable. I also 100% agree with Crinacle's idea to lower the gain region. It is a bit more relaxed and longer session set. Doesn't have that brightness of S12. The change in bass, I like it but that seems to be some people's sticking point. For me, I love the cleanliness of it but I don't listen to a bass heavy library for the most part.

[@fromallan]

Yeahhh 🔥 what I really love are vocals

[@PaulWasabii]

Yeah the vocals are great. Chu started that style in the budget range and Zero is right there. A nice change from typical V-shaped slightly recessed vocals.

[@donvittoriosierra]

I was fine with the chu's midbass, it was the messy lower treble that I couldn't stand. shouty as well.

[@PaulWasabii]

I wouldn't double down if you don't like Chu, but I do think Lan is better. Sadly they had to double the price and put it out of consideration for most Chu owners.

[@paradiseb5950]

I have sonys mdr xb50, will these zero's be a substantial upgrade over my sony?

[@hydrowiz1660]

If you like Sony's bass, then you would find zero's bass anemic. Mids and highs are surely an upgrade over mdr xb50

[@waelwell8909]

I've never used an IEM before abd I'm really curious to know how do these compare to a pair of wireless earbuds such as Jabra or sony in terms of sound quality. thanks

[@PaulWasabii]

The two are not far, but typical tws has more bass as they tend to be used in noisier environments. I'm not sure about Jabra. I use Galaxy Buds Pro, and those can stand in for a bass heavy iem. Zero is tuned more for music than general purpose tws and tuned to be a bit brighter. Hard to say though, iem people tend to like tws that resemble iem tuning but harder to find the reverse. As in I am not sure there is a tws that sounds like Zero.

[@medtxastratospore8897]

How this compares to Moondrop's more expensive single DD especially on technicalities and soundstage? I use eq on all my IEM so tuning is less of concern. I'm curious if the price gap can be justified.

[@PaulWasabii]

Well you are looking at a 4X price jump for not 4X performance. Typical though, we pay crazy amounts of money for small gains. I'd put it in the same category, better but you are paying a lot for a small gain, but its a gain in resolution and detail. Jumping to Aria and Kato is one route, keeping Zero and buying Dioko/some other planar really gets you that technical jump for the price.

[@eloy5808]

@@PaulWasabii thanks for this response. And also to your response on the KZ ESX, I find it very practical and intelligent. I'd say that, these entry level iems are great but it would suit people like me who are regular music listener. I was eyeing on another iem but the way you answered this one, I guess expensive iems are really meant for people like professionals who are needing details at the slightest of increments in gains. You are correct, I have tried a more expensive aria from a friend, and well, I don't hear much of a difference with my ESX. But it doesn't mean, I would not suggest an aria if someone would like to own it coz it os a good one. Lastly, thanks for giving the time to respond to questions. Your subscriber's questions could be some people's questions as well, and it helped a lot. God bless

[@mycommentdoesnotmatter1809]

I got this. Its better than chu. Btw, how's a modded Olina compared to today's competition? Just ordered one for 79 bucks.

[@PaulWasabii]

Zero is nice. I like Chu too, both are nice for the price. Modded Olina and that driver is still hard to beat. HBB said Seek Real Airship thing is the same driver, different tuning. That looked like a modded Olina too but doesn't need to be modded maybe. I don't think anyone has beat the driver yet, but tuning it seems there are more options with a similar driver.

[@BuzzingGoober]

What's a modded olina?

[@delicrux]

Nice video

[@amanieux]

i tried many time to tame trebble with micropore tape on the nozzle but it always muffles the sound and kills details, font vent mod on the other hand works well even to tame the trebble because once you raise bass with only the vent mod, your brains balances the sound spectrum and trebble becomes less noticeable in our ear+brain audio perception system

[@PaulWasabii]

Yes, micropore on the nozzle is tricky for a number of reasons. Even on Zero, I was measuring to keep the change minimal. Really those were just a couple non-destructive, non-warranty voiding things to try on Zero or other sets. The better answer is to have various filter densities/sponges and remove the existing filter. That is a warranty voiding move so didn't want to go there on this one. It has been a bit of a process to come up with ways to slightly tweak sets without voiding the warranty or just saying use EQ. Thank you for the comment too.

[@enquiem3051]

just use EQ bro

[@rafidshahriarpranto588]

Is it better than zex pro (overall sound quality) ? You have both of them

[@PaulWasabii]

For me, it is not the sound quality, it is the balance. Zero is just brighter and that is appealing to some people but I prefer the balance of ZEX Pro. All the technicals does me no good if it is a bit bright to enjoy.

[@spendymcspendy]

I have been switching back and forth between my Salnotes Zero(with Moondrop spring tips) and Chu. Zero has a cleaner more pronounced sound. Chu sounds faded. I prefer the Salnotes Zero. Chu just doesn't do it for me. To each their own.

[@fate5806]

Ootb, SalZero already good sounding (yep, stock tips&cable) while chu needs some tip-rolling like AET08/KB08 to boost bass noteweight

[@PaulWasabii]

That is the tricky part on Chu, fit and/or tips.

[@FasCi_N8]

Where do you find the spring tips?

[@spendymcspendy]

@@FasCi_N8 Linsoul

[@Nick-vm5st]

Which one is a batter choise acc. To you trn ta1 orsalnotes zero

[@PaulWasabii]

Zero is better but you do need to pay attention to the parts that I mentioned, a strong upper mid and reduced mid-bass. That is not good or bad, just a preference and how you like to listen to your library.

[@marspaul-no6jd]

hope it won't let me down.

[@zeke6941]

Is there a bluetooth adapter for these?

[@NamTran-xc2ip]

Hey Paul, I mainly listen to indie, indie rock prog, alternative rock metal, bedroom pop, classical, jazz. Which $20 iem would you recommend? Also I might upgrade to the $100-$200 soon and at that price which is the best?

[@PaulWasabii]

Your genres cover a wide range of signatures. So Zero is clean, but not bass heavy so covers a few. KZ EDA is more pop with a heavier bass section and the balanced is nearly balanced. And increasing price gets you more all--around sets like Moondrop Aria, Aria Snow Edition for the lesser bass sound, and Dunu's Titan S for a more refined Zero style. At $100+, you are seeing tons of planar sets. That is where I would go. Timeless, S12, Dioko, or P1Max.

[@dakzhero1451]

does this have a mic

[@PaulWasabii]

There is no standard cable with mic and Linsoul charges an extra $10usd for their mic cable

[@zkai2939]

how does it compare to eda balanced and kz zsx

[@PaulWasabii]

Take a look at the bass levels. EDA balance is a balance between fun, musicality, and enough detail. Zero is clean, detailed, technical, and a tiny bit of fun. It is very good for critical listening or monitoring, but not as fun as I would choose for a daily set. Your preferences might be different.

[@kafismokie]

Thanks, For the video A quick question, Let me know one thing what is the size of the ear tips which come with the buds? is that M size Or S?

[@PaulWasabii]

2 sets of SML

[@kafismokie]

@@PaulWasabii that all i know already. actually I'm talking about main ear tips which is already attached with the ear buds! those are M size?

[@Faulter377]

How s the staging for gaming?

[@PaulWasabii]

I don't game so this won't mean much, but its a very clean, detailed, sharp set. May not be huge in staging, but detailed for the price.

[@muhammadzakyzahran7260]

Bro thats graph more better than cra+. especially the peak on upper treble. Original Cra+ (no tune with wavelet). I dont very like cra+ because the treble bit fatiguing and sibilance on vocal on some music like J-song. And its price more cheap than cra+. Its very good to compete with the price and maybe slightly better than chu

[@PaulWasabii]

Yes, slightly better than Chu depending if that mid-treble is a bit intense for you. Dipping it slightly was the right move. But at lower volume, makes less of a difference. I don't mind having a KZ fun bassy set and a cleaner set like Zero on my desk. Even TRI KAI, there is always a place for a bass heavy set and sets at the other end like Zero and Chu.

[@minapenguin7107]

Salnotes Zero or Dunu Titan S?

[@jefjef3967]

Up

[@PaulWasabii]

That is tough simply because of the price difference. I don't think Zero is better than Titan S, but are you willing to pay 4X more for a small improvement? I am listening to Dioko now and I would use the same argument with Timeless. Timeless better but 2X more money. I'd say Zero and Chu are close, but neither really goes beyond their bigger brothers, Aria, Titan S, Kato, etc.

[@minapenguin7107]

@@PaulWasabii Dunu Titan S is better than salnotes zero in terms of what?

[@PaulWasabii]

@@minapenguin7107 For me and the minority, Zero can be harsh and not as balanced as it should be. Dunu is better as in it doesn't have that problem for me. But just on detail and resolution, Zero and Chu are very close and neither are better than Aria or Titan. But as I said, there are differences but worth spending 4x, probably not. Kinda like asking if you should buy Dioko or Timeless. Timeless is better but Dioko is the better value and most people won't notice the 10% more detail in Timeless.

[@minapenguin7107]

@@PaulWasabii i currently have BLON 03, have been using it for almost a year. If I buy salnotes zero, would it be a big step up in detail retrieval from BLON 03?

[@Smzxe]

Just EQ for the bass Sorry bro covering that pin hole will not give any bass it will create less sound and driver will stop vibrating Also it can create very high vaccum in your ears I did it and the pressure in my ear got so high it was pulling out my eardrum Do not ever do that anyone

[@PaulWasabii]

Here is the problem, such a small percentage of IEM users EQ that is pointless mentioning it. At the same time, there are things to try that sometimes work well for people, and sometimes they don't. Most people won't ever put tape on Zero, but for the few who were about to toss it, spend 2 minutes and try it. The number of people who experience pressure from unvented shells, less than those who EQ. Point taken though and also why I typically use micropore tape.

[@Smzxe]

@@PaulWasabii NO Absolutly no I tried this and when I plugged in the earphone it literally created vaccum in my ear I couldn't even hear anything Neither the speaker was working I thought I lost hearing lmao 🤣 When I plugged these out After some time my ears became normal No one should ever try this Just EQ the few dB bass

[@michaelwitt1733]

How do these compare to the Blon bl03

[@muhammadzakyzahran7260]

Blon03 more bass with less treble. With good vocal technality on the price but bit muddy because the bass more dominant .

[@PaulWasabii]

Correct, it is more like a leaner BL03. But if you like the BL03 sound, then switching to Zero will sound lean and maybe thin. Zero is really for people who do not like the BL03 for too much bass and muddiness.

[@NamTran-xc2ip]

@@PaulWasabii hey, can you just eq the blon bl03 or the Chu like the 7hz zero? If I did that, I will have same performance right?

[@MegaCreed007]

@@NamTran-xc2ip there are somethings that are baked into the iem that you cannot simply eq out. EQ only works to a certain degree. Anyways i use bl-03 as a daily driver and recently ordered the 7hz zero just to mix things up a little bit. its good to have every kind of tuning in your drawer if you like listening to music. I also have e3000, kz zs10pro and soundmagic e11c.

[@VihMelchior]

He looks so big on your hands! Hahaha in real life zero is super small!

[@PaulWasabii]

yeah it is tiny actually. I think the last time I compared shell sized was CCA HM20. Sometimes you do need a visual aid to figure out the real life size.

[@fate5806]

CRA is the real overhyped, hands down. BL03/Tanya the overpraised

[@fate5806]

anyway, I'm using blue colored stock tips (fits me well) & foam tips

[@0451arthur]

Leá are very underrated/overlooked IMO.

[@NewDarkKnight]

Not agree with 03 and tanya being overpraised. When 03 released 4 years ago there was no good tuned cheap iems around. Only options other than 03 were peaky kz mess. Same with tanya but after few months after tanyas release other brands started tuning their budget iems.

[@PaulWasabii]

There will always be people who have libraries that work well on the BL03, Mele, and now KAI. Great examples of that thicker, bassier style. At the other end, people looking for cleaner, faster, more technical are getting more choices and more price points like Zero. If you like Zero's style, it is easy to criticize BL03 but millions of people enjoy it so there is a place for it. CRA overhyped, I will agree with that unless you spend time modding it. Good driver but the tuning out of the box is hard on my ears.

[@fate5806]

@@PaulWasabii yes sir

[@QuanNguyen-uc2sn]

Mr. White

[@carminedesanto6746]

Hopefully better tuned than the Diokos 😳

[@PaulWasabii]

Depends. Dioko is fine though if you have listened to Timeless. Each planar has similarities and tradeoffs

[@carminedesanto6746]

@@PaulWasabii True Enough.😋 I have the S12’ …and it’s damn good .

[@FordFracture]

just got mine today and I'm not impressed 😐 but for 20 bucks they sound ok

[@geneharry]

I bought these IEMs, and I do not really like them.

[@kalo_nord]

so there's nothing special about them? they dont sound like 100$ IEM even with EQ? i mean if you raise bass just by 3 dB, it shouldn't add much distortion...they have almost the same FR as dunu titan s, how do they compare?

[@PaulWasabii]

It was meant as an entry level set and done very well. Are people going to trade in their Titans and Arias for Zeros? I don't think so but I do think this will be the introduction to the Salnotes brand reaching larger audiences. I think of it similar to Chu, it gets people an introduction into the brand to upgrade later but Chu is not an Aria replacement.

[@Smzxe]

Not impressed by this I have it Luster bass not enough clarity in Midrande treble lacks sparkle Mids are not that good it's laid back It should have been bit forward the vocals could've been bit forward My Sennheiser CX 180 sounds way better much cleaner harder hitting bass much better midrange soundstage and imaging much better treble Performance Even Sony MH1 were better than 7hz salnotes zero

[@nkphongangphom8963]

You are high

[@vzero8612]

I was thinking about buying these but found out that it's for audio nerds. Not a fun sounding pairs. I'm thinking cca cra how are those?

[@PaulWasabii]

I'd look at CRA+. The original CRA is also for audio nerds. Or KZ EDA balanced. Those are more fun. Another fun one is the recent KZ DQS.

[@marspaul-no6jd]

hope it won't let me down.

[@geneharry]

I bought these IEMs, and I do not really like them.