Audiophile Nirvana for less than $40!? KZ IEM's

[@cheapaudioman]

KZ x HBB X KZ DQ6S amzn.to/3sIwSAS --KZ CRA CCA amzn.to/3sIYnKD ----Apple Lightning 3.5mm amzn.to/3HSYVE7 ---Premium 2 pin Cable amzn.to/3BshAE1 -----Tidal Deal bit.ly/3fQvNkq ------Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt -------Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH --------amzn.to/3GkNaop ---------CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K ----------apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P -----------massdrop.7eer.net/qnOye5 ------------Amazon Unlimited Music and Disney Plus Free Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9 ----------------www.patreon.com/cheapaudioman

[@victorvannatter312]

I think the best day of my life was when I was around 12 and my mom took me out to an electronic store to pick out myself new Sony Walkman for my birthday. I remember feeling bad because of how expensive it was and we didn't have a lot of money. But that thing was my best friend for years. It even had a switch on it so I could properly listen to metallic tapes. Sweet!

[@cheapaudioman]

I love it! Yeah, mine was pricey too but I didn't get the real sony one. But it was the start of my obsession with music

[@victorvannatter312]

@@cheapaudioman Even into the CD era, I kept using it. I found a disk man’s were too big and the skipping was horrible whenever you’d walk. I had a home stereo system. And I mostly used it to copy the CDs onto blank cassette tapes to use in my Walkman

[@Phunkiedeknition]

I have the exact same story. I still feel bad about it now. 1995 Sony discman ESP. $440.

[@jimmyayotte5529]

Me too! I got that and a beetles tape.. I listened to it so much I can't stand the beetles anymore. I still have one although it is an updated version with the tuner. I use it to listen to the radio when working outside or at the ballgame.

[@victorvannatter312]

@@jimmyayotte5529 For me it was Smash by the offspring, Insomniac but Green Day, and Bad Hair Day by Weird Al

[@Ratchet98]

Love your channel Randy. I think you do a really good job at bridging the gap between the hardcore audiophiles and the everyday person.

[@cheapaudioman]

thanks, Ben. I really want to bring more people into the hobby and let them know that great sound doesn't need to cost an arm and a leg.

[@trog69]

@@cheapaudioman I'd love it if you could find some companies that make adapters for IEMs for those of us who just cannot get them to stay in the ears. I've yet to find one that works for my obviously weirdly-shaped ears. Love you channel regardless!

[@erics.4113]

@@trog69 there are companies that custom mold them for your ears, but will probably not be in the budget category if that matters

[@atheisthumanist1964]

@@trog69 Have you tried memory foam replacements?

[@trog69]

@@atheisthumanist1964 No. Instead I've just gone with over-ear or on-ear 'phones. I'll look into memory foam replacements, however. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@TheAltair033]

...so about the naming scheme: it's not actually that bad: first letter (or first two) is usually driver type: Z for hybrids (ZEX, ZAS, ZSN Pro) AS for balanced armature (ASX, AS10, AS16) ED for single dynamic (EDX, EDC, EDS) DQ for multi driver dynamic (DQ6, DQ6S) the number denotes the total driver count (for multi driver iems), so e.g. the DQ6 have 3 drivers per iem or 6 in total; AS16: 8 BAs per side the S (or Pro) at the end just means it's a newer revision: old DQ6 -> new DQ6S and finally the x HBB just means it's a colab between KZ and HBB (Hawaiian Bad Boy/ Bad Guy Good Audio Reviews)

[@labcoat22]

A few years ago when I was in the heights of ripping all of my CD to lossless FLAC at the highest but rate my player could use. My kiddo found an old disc man I tossed some new batteries and a CD to show him the ancient technology and I was so very surprised how good it sounded when compared to my phone and my DAP. Also enjoying the KZ ZEX pre/CRN

[@jim010109]

At my age, isolating from society is a must. I dont go anywhere without access to my streaming service or my Jabra 75t's. Keep up the great work!

[@kennethoransky4881]

My first good items were the KZ ZS6s about 5 years ago. I still have them.

[@canergul3972]

Same with ZS5s❤️

[@AndyBHome]

5:20 "It's a party IEM." BAM! Randy just single handedly created a new market segment for earphones: the "party IEM." You saw it here first people.

[@DweebLord]

If you aren’t much into IEMs Koss makes a lot of affordable on ear headphones. KPH40 is on my head right now :)

[@Ratchet98]

I currently have the KPH30i clear with Yaxi pads. Sounds great, light and very comfortable.

[@kristophergurley585]

I use the KSC 75s when out on my bike. I love them.

[@turtlet7201]

I love both the kph30i and ksc75. They sound pretty different, but both are great! Yaxi pads changes the sound, but imo for the better (comfort improves too).

[@kristophergurley585]

@@turtlet7201 I have the Yaxis on my set too. I bought every color so I could give out KSCs to friends as well.

[@markhathaway9298]

KPH 40 is king of them all!

[@doubleXnickel]

KZ has really changed my mind with the dq6 and crn. Some quirks but really a nice value and in my rotation. But I prefer a dedicated DAP over apple.

[@iamkerok]

Thanks for the previous introduction to the KZ x Crinacle... They have changed my routine!

[@imaginaut]

HBB = Hawaii Bad Boy from the channel Good Guy Bad Audio Reviews same headphone has a variant called CRN =Crinacle. KZ collaborated with them :) Just wanted to mention that

[@bcl4368]

Really appreciate the videos you post. After a few years of being in storage my speakers are now happily connected again on a budget thanks to the detailed reviews and comments on the channel.

[@toddwalker4301]

I remember riding my bike, when the belt clip on my $70 dollar Sony Walkman broke. I watched the Walkman disintegrate into 50 pieces on the asphalt. That was a bad day! I love your vids Randy and I have learned a lot. I can even talk audio with my millennial kids!

[@cheapaudioman]

Very cool!

[@gordon37336262]

Gotta love KZ. I agree with the shape of them sometimes feeling cheap and not super comfortable. The proof is in the price and the sound. Picked up a set of the ES4 and ZS10 and I couldnt be happier. On top of having more clarity than the standard buds included with iphone, the KZ iems are louder. I would recommend getting replacement foam or silicone tips if you decide to buy them.

[@Ricelord4]

I got the CCA CRA earlier this month, and then I immediately went to the Apple Store and bought a USB-C to 3.5 mm dongle (A2049). Honestly, these 2 items are way too good for how cheap they are. I also have the BLON BL-03 and a FiiO BTR5 2021, and the former pair gives the latter a run for the money. The CCA CRA is about the same price as the BLON BL-03, but they trade blows - CCA CRA is heavier on sub bass, sparkly on the treble, and a little more detailed, while the BLON BL-03 is heavier on mid bass and lower mids and more relaxing to listen to for a long time. The BTR5 2021 is better than the Apple dongle DAC because of its features, but it's also 11 or 12 times the price. Had I just stuck to IEMs and didn't want something to drive my Sennheiser HD 58X headphones wirelessly, I would've just stuck to the Apple dongle and a pair of KZ or other Chinese IEMs.

[@gatobakuniano]

The Blon are really great for their price. Very relaxed, good Soundstage for a cheap IEM, good quality, instrument separation, layering, very natural timber... They lack detail, but that's not a big deal for longer listening sessions. Too much detail ends being fatiguing

[@jb678901]

For LDAC from Win10Pro PC, I am using the FiiO BTA30Pro ($116) and then connecting via BT using the BTR5-2021($125). Fantastic.

[@harveylin3548]

I got the Blon too, man those things packs a punch for their price.

[@cyprusdaedalus]

In the last month I picked up the CCA CRA, KZ ZS10 Pro, KZ Zex Pro, and the AKG N400NC's. I'm blown away by the sound quality by these things. I picked up 7hz Timeless as well but returned it as honestly I couldn't tell a significant difference between those and the N400's and the 5x price tag wasn't justified for my feeble ears. If I had to pick 2 the ZS10 Pro's / AKG N400's are my favorite (but i'm a bit of a basshead).

[@bernhardmichaelfux308]

I own two pairs of ZS10 Pro's since more than a year, plus a pair of KZ ZSX 5BA+1DD 6 and a pair KZ Zax 1DD+7BA. I combined these with a set of KZ AZ09 Bluetooth Kabel, and it sounds great - even via Bluetooth! OK, The Better cables I purchased additionally were a great step up, but Bluetooth is also good to go! And the stuff is really not expensive!

[@cyprusdaedalus]

@@bernhardmichaelfux308 Got AZ09 Pro's on the way! Thanks for the rec!

[@bernhardmichaelfux308]

@@cyprusdaedalus The AZ09 is definitly a step up in convenience! So i must recommend them! lol And: There is also a pro version available, and today I saw an AZ10 Bluetooth device too (on Amazon)! Also not expensive, and I think I gonna try the AZ10 in the near future.

[@DarenLee]

Hi Randy, I started watching your channel during the pandemic where you reviewed monitor speaker at the outdoor beside your house. At that time the lockdown restrict us to stay at home and watch KZbin and there’s where I stared following your channel in interest of monitor speakers and component, but the pandemic hit hard and could afford any of those and now after years I own “a lot” of KZ and some other IEMs and watching this IEM video now gives me a special feelings. Thanks for the continuous great videos, love your sense of humor too. Regards from Malaysia.

[@cheapaudioman]

thanks for watching, Daren!

[@petercarter3704]

Bought the KZ DQ6S’s, love em (and the lightning connector), thanks for the recommendation. Great choice.

[@salaufer]

I picked up the DQ6S based on your recommendation -- they really do sound incredible. I was surprised by how punchy the bass is, and even more surprised by how detailed they are across the spectrum. They're also comfortable -- normally I can't stand to wear plugs at all, but that little ridge on top that tucks into the concha makes all the difference. They took three weeks to arrive, but they were worth the wait. As always, your reviews are top notch, and entertaining too. I recently built out my first "good" stereo system based mostly on your recommendations, and it sounds amazing (and yes, I used your affiliate links). Thanks for all the good work!

[@lukerabin5079]

I discovered these on Amazon and I’m up to my second pair. The first were all plastic and only lasted a few weeks before they started falling apart. The second pair have a metal top plate and they’re built like a tank, and they do burn in to lose some top end sibilance and they are bloody marvellous. I’ve had really top end sennheisers and shures, but after too many years in way too noisy environments, like front of house speaker bins, these are lifesavers! And a complete bargain!

[@omahahaha]

I was into isolation before isolation was cool. Great video, Randy.

[@odwatchguy]

Thanks Randy, great review of some really cheap IEM's. I have a pair of KZ that I have had for about a year and really liked them. Yesterday I picked up my new hearing aids so no more IEM's for me, I am looking forward to hearing music in a whole new light. I have to thank you because your descriptions of the music made me realize what I was missing and helped get me wanting more.

[@cheapaudioman]

Anything for you, TT

[@Alvin853]

KZ has so many different products, it's impossible to keep track of all of them and figure out, what the differences are. I have a pair of KZ EDX Pro coming in the mail next week, can't wait to hear how they sound.

[@cheapaudioman]

I like these HDD's a lot and the x crinacle and these CRA's are pretty good too.

[@OrganNLou]

I have a HUGE bargain for you! I purchased Cayin RU6 R2R dac ($250), which is a portable dac, and I am using it as my main dac, via Bellari tube preamp to a Schiit Aegir power amp. Having owned the Denafrips Ares II, I can honestly say this little dac gives me much of the great R2R sound I am accustomed to. I AM IMPRESSED!!!

[@charlesfagerquist1091]

Wow, fancy stuff. I on the other hand enjoy the KZ ZST. The most basic (cheap) KZ out there and they are still fantastic through my phone or...wait for it...my ipod. If and when I break or lose these, I can see myself going up to the better versions! Cheers and thanks for the great vid.

[@jb678901]

Just pulled the trigger on the LetShuoer S12 (14.8mm Planar driver) for US$140 and the Tripowin x HBB Olina (w/CNT-carbon nanotube driver)for US$97; both purchased on AliEx. I do own the KZ Zex Pro and the CCA CRA...very good at such low prices. The Tin HiFi T3+, another very good IEM for only $67. However, the Olina is setting a new bar, bringing $300 performance to the masses. As for the S12 planar...a steal at this price level IMO. The Tanchjim Oxygen uses the very same driver as on the Olina. Key differences...the Olina has a similar design/construction to the Mele and therefore delivers a much more comfortable fit in the ear than the O2. Also, the Olina is HBB tuned, so there is that bonus too! At 1/3 the price of the O2, the Olina is another terrific buy, IMO.

[@MentleGan]

I got myself a pair of KZ ZSN PRO X and man do they sound good!

[@sidesup8286]

Thinking out of the box, a thing you can do with inner ear headphones that you cannot do with regular headphones is listen to 2 different headphones at the same time. You need a headphone amp with 2 headphone jacks. There are some. Right now I"m listening to a Tin Audio headphone in my left ear and the Daniel Queen headphone in my right ear. They sound great. Both of them. I can also put on a mono CD or record and compare the sound of two different headphones at the exact same time. Or 2 different interconnects cables at the same time. Or test my hearing in both ears at the same time. What a fun hobby! If buying used, ask kindly & politely that they clean off any earwax on the buds. Or better yet, you can try to get a discount over it.

[@TimTimTomTom]

I risked, and sustained the injuries... but not hanging on a pickup, it was a dirtbike because that's what we had. Dirt roads were a lot of fun growing up, great bmx riding.

[@NosEL34]

Not much that I love more than a quality "cheap" pair of earphones/headphones. Problem is that you can listen to a thousand of them before you find a gem because there are so many headphones out there. Brands like Edifier, JLab, Soundpeats make some great ones, MPOW definitely makes some very low cost fun earbuds, FIIL and Soundcore (Anker) make great sound as well. Wearing my Soundcore Q30's as I type. Got those for 60 when they debuted, a bit more than the $30 for the KZ's but these are over the ear, noise canceling, and Soundcore has an EQ app with presets or the ability to curve to your liking for some of their products. Amazing what we can get for a decent price if we research a little. These KZ HBB sound right up my alley for when I'm listening to certain types of music. For that price I'm ordering them now, I've never tried a pair of "IEM'S" but you have my attention. If I don't like them I'll give them to one of the kids..they run thru headphones every couple months it seems, kids are rough on everything, especially when they don't pay for it lol. Nice review as usual, thanks for giving me another earphone company to pay attention to🙄🤣 EDIT: I did just order these thru the link..arrival time March 10th thru April 1st. Must be a shortage, good thing is I'll probably forget I ordered them and it will be a nice surprise when they show up

[@jb678901]

I own the Q30's and they are terrific with a custom EQ via the Soundcore app. Same for the Motion+ speaker and the Soundcore Life P3's...own all of these terrific products, which deliver excellent performance for the money and utilize the same app across the board. IMO, Anker/Soundcore has an exceptional ecosystem.

[@howardhandville2107]

Thanks for the vid; ended up with the KZ-ZS10 Pro's as their tuning suited my preferences. Very comfy & fit well (using Comply earplugs), and since they have low impedence, pairs well with the SMSL AD-18 dac/amp.

[@hixyhicks]

I have loads of KZ and love them .Qc is great too not like Tin audio which all have broke .Got zex crinkle at first i thought they were horrible,but they are getting better .

[@mdd47]

One of the best in-ear headphones I've ever owned cost me $8 and didn't need some fancy external headphone amp. Awei ES-800M. If you can find a pair, get them. They're not made anymore and are relatively hard to come by, but they're wonderful.

[@AirBudProMax]

Huge budget option in the TWS space while the sale lasts: AKG N400nc for $48 from the AKG/Harman website. All metal build. Harman IEM tuning. Great treble detail. UX that leaves a little bit to be desired compared to AirPods or Galaxy Buds.

[@JMJM75257]

Check out cca I believe they are formed with some of kzs staff and designer's. I prefer the sound signature they are going for more balanced then the likes if the kz zsn etc.

[@DarrenLeong]

I am watching this in a pair of KZ IEMs. They are amazing.

[@atheisthumanist1964]

Definitely impressed with KZ's iem's. 1st set were ZS10 PRO, loved em so much I bought a friend a pair. Recently picked up a set of ZAX and was pretty much blown away. Old ZS10 pro went to friends hubby. Far more warmth, more than likely due to the ear tubes. Now if they offered them with different replacement tubes, you could somewhat tune them a bit more to your preference. A great introductory company for iem's for sure. And totally agree with upgrading the cable, although I went the balanced route, since I have a Qudelix 5k. Expecting a Hart cables kit in a week or 2, had to go the custom route since black is my colour.

[@cyprusdaedalus]

ZS10 Pro's are currently my favorite. What differences were there you liked so much on the ZAX?

[@atheisthumanist1964]

@@cyprusdaedalus There's definitely more bottom end, compared to the ZS10 pros. Sound staging seems a bit better as well. I listen to a lot of live performances and they really seem to add depth.

[@HarithAhmadDaud]

The QKZ brand is also along the line of this KZ brand. Mine costs around $3 and I was blown away of thr sound. I used to own Audio Technica ATH-IM50, I mean that's no $100 IEM but those are quite pricey and sounds cool too. But a pair of $3 IEM to sound as close or practically the same to those more expensive ones, the IEM market is a heaven for audiophile on a budget right now.

[@johnmcchavs]

I use KZ for playing music, as in-ear monitors. A lot of them are very nice ! If you add memory foam pads instead of the silicon ones.

[@77tubarao]

I got all the tree: zex pro, hbb, cca cra plus the dongle from apple with usb c to use on my android device, and it is great! No Domino's or dinner out with family for a few weeks though! 😜🤣

[@cheapaudioman]

sounds like you are set up.

[@zackw4941]

As for affordable gear, I have Sennheiser CX300S I picked up for $40. I also have Koss KSC-75 and their Bluetooth version. $20 and $50 respectively. All of these options are distressingly enjoyable even compared to my less affordable gear...

[@benoitdeshaies5407]

For Android, you can also use Apple's USB-C to 3.5mm dongle DAC. Works great, same cheap price ($8-10)

[@michaelknibbs]

Great idea to get new people into this hobby. Like you, my first experience of fidelity in recorded music was with personal players and a pair of headphones. Remember those bright yellow HD414s anyone?

[@gs-nq6mw]

I still remember when I was a kid and my brother brought home a cheap headphone he got from a friend and I used it to listen to a protest rap and started crying with the music,the headphone broke days after and I only got bad quality earbuds until last 2 months where I bought 2 better quality IEM after a lot of research

[@JoseFerreira-zb7wh]

Maybe you should try the KZ ZEX. It's a previous version of the ZEX Pro and it has less treble so maybe you'll find it better and less fatiguing. Chifi is on a roll recently, also on iems. There are lots of brands with great, good value products. By the way, the actual model of the iem is the dq6s. HBB is a reference to the colaboration with the youtuber that did the tuning (Hawaiian Bad Boy). It's the same guy who did the Tripowin Mele and the recent Olina's tuning.

[@JohnClarkW]

The KZ ZEX was interesting because it toned down the treble, but there was some bass bloat in there, and it wasn't great tuning. The ZEX Pro is better tuned, but isn't very comfortable thanks to the wing.

[@kristophergurley585]

If you want something a little tamer but still fun and fine sounding, the Moondrop Quarks are an outstanding bargain at $13. If you need more situation awareness, get the Koss KPH series, KSC 75s, or Portapros. My old KZ ZSRs are still some of my favorite yardwork iems though. Enough sound blockage and enough bounce to make menial labor tolerable.

[@mdd47]

I just ordered a pair of Quarks and the product description on Amazon said they are "full of geek flavor." IDK exactly what that means but I am a geek so I'm excited. Thanks for the recommendation!

[@kristophergurley585]

@@mdd47 “Full of geek flavor” means they taste like corn dogs and Mr. Pib. 😄

[@mdd47]

@@kristophergurley585 cool, I like both those things

[@dieseldust27]

I'm still using my KZ AS10 since 2020. They still sound great to this day

[@wontbefamous2342]

Ayyy AS10 owner here as well. Great all BA iem! Only issue I had was that the included earbuds didn’t agree with my ears and I got some pain but that’s easily fixed with the softer tips from Sony. I got them as beaters and they ended up become my daily driver

[@dieseldust27]

@@wontbefamous2342 cheers mate 👍

[@bernhardmichaelfux308]

I own two pairs of ZS10 Pro's since more than a year, plus a pair of KZ ZSX 5BA+1DD 6 and a pair KZ Zax 1DD+7BA. I combined these with a set of KZ AZ09 Bluetooth Kabel, and it sounds great - even via Bluetooth! OK, The Better cables I purchased additionally were a great step up, but Bluetooth is also good to go! And the stuff is really not expensive! On Paper the ZAX are the best, but I can´t really say, if they sound way better than the other two models.

[@jb678901]

I have a pair of the KZ AZ09 Pro's that I purchased on AliEx for $37. With AptX/AAC/SBC (QCC3040 chipset), sound quality, battery life (48hrs with case), and connectivity are excellent. Liked them so much, when they went on discount for $26, I bought a spare set. For my standard Two-pin IEM's, I bought some QDC (female) to 2-pin (0.75/0.78mm) male adapters, which allow me to pair these BT 5.2 earhooks with either my Tin T3+ or the Tripowin Lea's. They also deliver Ipx4, TWS+, and CVC (for good call quality). What a game changer!

[@bernhardmichaelfux308]

@@jb678901 The call quality of my ZAX with the AZ09 is excellent - by the way... I only forgot to write this too. And, I must laugh about AirPods and their prize lol...

[@kwicke5636]

ibasso IT01 are definitely worth checking out as well. Have no idea how they compare to the KZs though.

[@todd92371]

If you haven't already... check out the Koss Ksc 75's. Add an earband and some Yaxi pads and they are amazing for the money. They constantly blow me away. Even without the "for the money".

[@TheAltair033]

Tip for my CRA bros: change the tips: wide bores tame the treble a bit (personally running moondrop springtips) also you're overpaying at 22$, they're 15 bucks on aliexpress

[@KenStarks]

I still have my KZ Z10 Pros. Now, I've purchased much more expensive IEMs but I ended up returning them so I could afford the Airmotive GR1s. I still keep the KZs in my car and use them constantly, You just cannot beat KZ for a fun, in-your-head music experience. Not for that price anyway. Audiophiles will argue, and that's fine. That's what drove me from the communities. Argue amongst yourselves.

[@angrygirl7083]

Hello, got my Bluetooth receiver today: iFi Zen Blu, but both my Samsung phone nor tablet support DLAC. This is ONLY reserved to more expensive Androids. So, now I've still the same quality as the bluetooth on my amp (Denon PMA 600NE).

[@cheapaudioman]

check the "developer" settings. a lot of time you have to enable ldac. also google your phone and "bluetooth codecs" and it should tell you what codecs the phone is capable of

[@jjjjjjj4610]

You HAVE to check out the er2se you can find them on sale for like 60$ quite often and theyre amazing.

[@JohnScheppler]

Great review, and thanks for bringing us these affordable ways to help us enjoy music.

[@cheapaudioman]

My pleasure, Johnny!

[@carminedesanto6746]

Got iPhone 7+, Amazon Music, IFI Go Blue, and a stable of IEM’s…great sound for “cheap”🥳

[@carminedesanto6746]

Thanks 🤘

[@Terry12345]

This is one thing the Chinese do extremely well. I rock the LINSOUL TIN Audio T2's.

[@nuttyl283]

very agree on CCA CRA ($11 in my country) but need to use old KZ ZSN cable ($2.2) will smooth all frequencies than original CCA CRA cable. I don't know why???? but I test it and it improved a little. Cable affects???? then total cost will be 11+2.2 = $13.2 and still worth to buy. However I think Etymotic EX2XR or Tin Hifi T3 Pluse sound better to my ears (but a lot more cost)

[@francescotenti193]

Another great review filled with good common sense showing that you don't have to dish out the equivalent of the cost of a nice new car, as I often see on another channel, to enjoy music.

[@cheapaudioman]

Thanks!

[@francescotenti193]

@@cheapaudioman You're very welcome!

[@naastradamus]

Dominoes pizza...We usually get the 1-topping Medium size for $5. So these IEMs ~ 5-7 pizzas. Both deals are winners!

[@linolingelbach2214]

CRA can be even more bassier if you tried tip rolling

[@BunnyslippersEUC]

I gave away my KZ ZS10. I still have my KZ AS10, but I would rather listen to my Shuoer Tape Pro. Two weeks ago I bought the Koss Kph30i twice and love them. Buy the KZ AS16. The midrange is beautiful. My best friend has the AS16.

[@noname-uo6hp]

congratulations! You made me have to look up the definition of "pugilist" just like everyone else you watched this video. Another good one thank you kind sir!

[@beezlebub3955]

Lol I like KZ, they were the first “IEM’s” I bought, the Pro X, one DD, and one BA, after I didn’t use them for a while and spent wayyy more money than I should’ve, I tried them back out and they sound muffled now, lol. So I’ve gained some good appreciation for having started low and and incrementally gone up, but I found my temporarily happy place, and even though it alone only cost around 500 bucks, it took me around 2000 worth of experimenting, so I have a bunch of stuff for sale now 😅😅

[@TheKizersoze13]

I think that is what most people end up doing. Take a couple of products to get your head around around curves/fit and features. I also tried the KZ pro and they sounded decent but comfort and fit were horrible for me.

[@cheapaudioman]

You have to try out a lot of stuff before you find that happy place. Ignorance is sometimes bliss...

[@stevezeidman7224]

Hard to go wrong for these prices and get real hifi! Great job as usual!

[@cheapaudioman]

Thanks! 👍

[@leeh4722]

I need some iem’s. I have a pair of those Koss on ears which are around the same price as my only headphones….they are 👍

[@Techthusiasm]

I sit all day long for work on my MacBook with the Apple EarPods in for listening to stuff, taking meetings, and so on. I wonder about a nicer pair of ear buds. Not something super expensive, but I'd rather not wear over the ear headphones or full in-ear buds either.

[@2m0ng032]

Yincrow X6 is shockingly good IMO.

[@rnomarcuzee8217]

Thx. Just got me some Bone Conductions headphones. Ever try them? I did so for working out and give my tinnitus a break. Not sure there is a medical validation. But the BC is weird for Audio. It works.

[@turbomustang84]

My first audio system was a Quad Zenith stereo my father let me pick out in 1974 then shortly after I bought my first electrostatic Headphone . But no lawn cutting or begging was ever going to get my true desire a Sansui 9090 at the then astronomical price of $550 lol I could afford Stereo Review Magazine however lol ... I truly miss that Mag

[@mrfightgreg]

Hi Randy, your channel is great! Love the intro. Have you heard this tube amp? It's $175 in Canada right now and it's awesome. I'm listening to all of Van Halen's albums in a row. I'm super impressed with the sound quality. 25 Watt Stereo Hybrid Tube Amplifier with Bluetooth, Optical, Coaxial, and USB Input - PrimeCables®

[@HotSause]

Great tip Randy. Do you have any recommendation for replacement cables? I'd rather put money in my home rig but this is affordable.

[@kevinweber5129]

Your pose is Buddhist Zen but the colors evoke Jedi Knight. May the Audio Force be with you Master.

[@imammarc]

Thanks for the advice. I decided to go a couple of levels up and purchased the KZ ZS10 Pro’s. I already had a decent set of cans (AKG 712 Pro’s) but they’re not for taking out of the house. I had a pair of Apple Airpods Pro’s (lots of “pro’s”) but they were N absolute waste of money. I wanted something with good sound quality and I figured if the ones you recommended then a step or two up the ladder should do just fine. My only complaint: they’re a bit of a pain to fit/wear.

[@keilebron2493]

have you tried changing the tips? like spinfit cp145 or spinfit cp100?

[@imammarc]

@@keilebron2493 no. Just ordered some based on your recommendation. We’ll see. Thanks.

[@keilebron2493]

@@imammarc yeah, because my ears is sensitive it get easily hurt that's why I bought the spinfit cp100. The feeling is really soft to the ear and it fits perfectly. btw, cp145 is much longer eartips than cp100. and there's also medical grade version for antibacterial which is the spinfit cp100 plus.

[@imammarc]

@@keilebron2493 the CP145’s arrived today and … they suck too 😂😂😂 appreciate the recommendation but I just think IEM’s are inherently flaws design and these KZ ZS10 Pro’s are particularly bad. Oh well.

[@paker51]

Moondrop Quarks $15.00! Outstanding!

[@timd5365]

The HBB's have a $6 coupon on them right now on Amazon Feb 16, 2022!

[@carlsitler9071]

Burn in was shockingly evident with my KZ CRN Pros. They were horrible out of the box but got better and better with use.

[@samuelll3166]

I had a similar experience. A basic EQ on my Samsung solved any issues and now they sound amazing.

[@linolingelbach2214]

1000% Took quite a while tho.. But it's so good right now.

[@atticusrussell1225]

I really like my zsn pro x - paired with a kz az09 pro wireless adapter which lets me use IEMs wirelessly

[@cheapaudioman]

I've seen those before. I bet they are very convenient

[@Saetun.]

Randy! Another great video, keep it up, sir. My only IEMs are the Blon bl-03's. Do you see any reason these should be on my radar? (not an iem collector) or do the BL-03's deliver a close enough experience to these to consider them a horizontal move rather than a vertical. I like a fun bass-y and sparkly sound & care not for analytics. Thx sir.

[@cheapaudioman]

I haven't heard the BL03's. I have the 05's and like them a lot.

[@PhilJohnston]

Maybe this is a dumb request that has been covered a billion times over but would you mind doing a video comparing something like the KZ’s to the Apple wired headphone connected to an external DAC? I’d really enjoy hearing your opinion. Are the apple ones any good?

[@m4nc1n1]

Randy, check out Aria's. Then put them on an Amp (I used the Magnius)

[@Emone11701]

They currently have a $6 dollar off coupon, w/ tax where I'm at it was only 28 bucks!

[@allenpost3616]

I was hoping you'd be wearing that jedi master outfit you had on in the thumbnail Randy. LOL It's a shame I can't wear earbuds though as these would be a good deal.

[@josebarci]

Kz is amazing phone. i have a KZ ZN and is fkn awensome.

[@vrafun7943]

If you don't want overwhelmed bass apart from DQ6S or want a more balanced song please try KZ DQ6!

[@TheAltair033]

cheap dongle alternative for android: CX-Pro Audio 31993, should be about 10$

[@StevenHendershott]

Okay, you NEED to check out these speakers...they're less than $70 right now and sound way too good to cost so little. ELAC 4" Passive Bookshelf Speakers. They punch WAY above their weight class. So nice with the Aiyima D05...

[@ravikumarjha8886]

I think if someone likes v or u shaped sound there is nothing batter that Venture electronics BIE , its base is simply mind blowing

[@stanleycostello9610]

I can't understand "mobile music." I listen to classical and jazz mostly. I have a hard time to think that Brahms 4th symphony or the Dave Brubeck Quartet playing "Blue Rondo a la Turk" because they are so complex and so intricate. Every time I hear them I discover something new, something I didn't hear before. I listen to my music at night: no telephones ringing, no knocking at doors, no interruptions. I don't listen to music when I am driving. I hate music in restaurants. When I listen to music, I listen to music. When I am out-and-about I am out-and-about.

[@tmesian]

My KZ ZAX are an additional $20, but I was just extremely curious what it would sound like having 16 (!?) balanced armatures in a pair of IEMs. They are my favorite way to listen to music. They are the reason I ended up buying an external DAC. As a similarly self-professed budget-audiophile, these IEMs don't get near the attention that I think they should. And for the record, I think the hype around the Tin T2s are BS. Long Live KZ.

[@nukefoodsofficial5849]

i sorta hate my tin t2 pros it could be my dongle, but they are very sharp

[@tmesian]

@@nukefoodsofficial5849 Yes! I can't handle the treble on many songs.

[@carlhongo]

I bought the KZ ZS 10 pro and after 3 weeks the right side did not sound anymore. I know this might be bad luck, but they don't answer my messages for customer service.

[@bongofury3176]

the CCA CRA is easily the best value for money in IEMs that I have seen. £13 well spent...

[@RobCCTV]

Yet another good point. Well made.

[@jjcornelio7741]

KZ x HBB means KZ and HBB (Hawian Bad boy) Collaboration. DQ6s the model name derived from the original DQ6.

[@tugga511]

Nice one Randy. Quick question, is the Apple dongle dac really capable of 96 kHz conversion? I was under the impression it is limited to 48 kHz. Was there an update recently?

[@cheapaudioman]

You’re right. 24/48. I looked it up today. Thought it was 96

[@JBSCHAFFNER]

AKG n400nc tws on sale at Akg for $46 sound better than 300+ wireless, have noise canceling and eq … no cables..

[@ScotDouglas]

Does the Android dongle DAC override the crazy "advanced audio" options verizon and android put on my phone? I don't need their idea of what sounds good killing my vibe. :) Because IM OFF TO BUY ME SOME KZ LSFDJ; ELJHRC OWEJR D OSJFR iems. Thanks Cheapaudioman!

[@Allaces305]

Looks like today is a better time than ever to put the family on a diet...Hello KZ HBB!

[@TheMetaldudeX]

I bought kz zst a long time ago and they were good. Just didn’t stay in ears well. How are these in regards to fit?

[@74357175]

What does it sound like for classical music?

[@aworminmybook8234]

what? no love for blons? BLON BL-T3 $17 and they rock!