KZ Castor Bass Version - 2DD, Harman Target with Improved Bass, $15, 'Nuff Said

[@yablokosmonaut571]

I don't think I've taken the time so say this before: Having the full main points on paper, visible at just about any point in the video, is low-tech genius. Better than timestamps, better than a purely written article, better than jumping between footage of someone's hand holding an IEM just to try to gather the key points. I really appreciate it, great feature of your videos!

[@PaulWasabii]

I used to minimize the words on paper so more like bullet points because I don't like to read the full block, but I now mostly do both. And yes, I use timecodes synced to the text blocks as I want people to be able to jump in and out quickly or just hit the bit they care about.

[@hihellothere9569]

I think a problem I'm noticing for this method I can't see it in low quality.

[@MR.ROBOTVOLTRON]

These are a insane value. I think these are a way bigger deal than their release of the CCA CRA. They sound really good and fun. They also have added value with the switches and do not look cheap at all for the price. Im impressed with these. They can definitely hang with Kahn and Zero at just 20 dollars.

[@PaulWasabii]

I wouldn't even say they went under the radar, there are lots of people who are talking about them.

[@handlemonium]

The Senfer DT6 back in 2021 was equally insane value. Like a dynamic, balanced armature, AND piezoelectric driver for $25 bucks in an all-metal, Panasonic Ergofit-style build!?

[@rudranroy2109]

How is the soundstage?

[@dreadlock17]

Got these as my first foray into IEM and I couldn't be more pleased. Sounds amazing especially for the price. I also bought the jade wan'er shortly after and for my music preference, I find that I'm reaching for the castor bass more often than not. Not to say that the wan'er is less good or whatnot, it's just a matter of preference. If you like bass, go for the castor.

[@PaulWasabii]

Correct. Most people just ask which is better. The right question is which is better for your music library. Fortunately we have great sets at affordable prices that allow people to own more than one to figure it out.

[@elcheapo9444]

My first IEM and it blew me away!! 😮😮😮

[@PaulWasabii]

You along with a lot of other people who bought it as their first

[@elcheapo9444]

@@PaulWasabii Do you recommend any worthy upgrades? I am hooked on IEMs now.

[@serpentsage]

​@@elcheapo9444 I definitely recommend upgrading the cable, since the cable that it came with has shit quality. I doubt it would last you long.

[@jaxvideo3]

I buy one and arrived yesterday... Yes, it's a true bass canon for little money! I find the best results switching ON only the #1 and #3 switches togeter. Try this setting. Congrats!

[@PaulWasabii]

Thanks. Yes, little money but a lot of time with the switches. As I said sometimes I liked it bassier, sometimes less so I messed with it quite a bit.

[@ChristianHau]

Does the soundstage and imaging good?

[@jaxvideo3]

@@ChristianHau Honestly??? No. KZ been KZ. But still a basshead miracle for 15 bucks. *need soundstage and imaging with good bass at afordable price??? Try the XSL X-One!

[@ChristianHau]

@@jaxvideo3 compared to Moondrop chu 2, which one better?

[@jaxvideo3]

@@ChristianHau I don't have the Moondrop Chu 2... But i'm sure that the tecnicalities of Chu are more impressive in all the frequencies. And the people says that he have good amount off bass. The Castor focus it's a huge bass. Only. *but middle and treeble are ok. More natural than Balanced Armatures.

[@fiddlix]

That FR graph looks pretty impressive for a fun, budget bass boosted KZ set. I’m not new to the hobby and I have Kahn (which I didn’t like because of the bass tuck) and Kailua but this looks like a lot of fun. Looks like a safe bet for less than 20 bux. Thank you Paul for bringing it to the communities attention.

[@PaulWasabii]

Yep, I don't think anyone has found the perfect 2DD recipe yet in that tuck area, this is KZ's whack at it. I think everyone knows what they want, just haven't been able to get there technically at a reasonable price point.

[@MrG0CE]

THIS IS HOW A REVIEW SHOULD BE DONE. NEW SUBSCRIBER HERE ! THANK U !

[@PaulWasabii]

Welcome brother

[@fishbarbeque8540]

This is the future of youtube reviews!! I know printing graphs isent the quickest thing ever, but as a buyer this is PERFECT!!!

[@PaulWasabii]

Or the past?

[@fishbarbeque8540]

@@PaulWasabii Lol, whatever its a great video

[@hizu4911]

I got mine today and im so happy 😍

[@lam3682]

How is the mic on the earphone may i ask. Im planning to but it for playing games on my pc

[@Garryp0tterr]

@@lam3682 the mic is fire

[@deejay_lyadh]

Hi, can you give a short review on these, are they still working? I actually bought kz zsn pros last year but after a month the left side stopped working.

[@Jp_116]

I have both the HBB Khan and the KZ Castor and between the two, I'd choose the Castor more if you're new to the hobby. Granted, I've only listened to the Castor with the default configuration it came out of the box. But like I said, if you're still starting out the Castor is the better choice since the Khan needs more power to actually drive them. If you don't have a DAC/AMP setup, and if your phone isn't powerful either, the Khan's bass is pretty much not there. Also the volume will be lacking. With the Castor, you can drive it even with just your phone. But I do still find the treble a little bit sibilant with it when you crank up the volume. The Khan handles the treble better even when you have an underpowered device. If you would want a bassy IEM but still handle the treble a little bit better like the Khan, I'd choose the original HBB collab with QKZ. It's more budget-friendly and beginner-friendly like the Castor as it doesn't need you to learn about DACs and AMPs and is pretty much plug&play. But I must say, the Castor is definitely an improvement over the previous budget releases of KZ. Sibilance is still there but it's definitely not as pronounced at it used to be. Even if there's a possibility that not all drivers are being utilized, I would still recommend this for a beginner basshead or anyone that wants to try a fun IEM based on what I could hear from my own pair.

[@PaulWasabii]

Yeah Khan was a bit crazy on power. I don't think most people got it at the time. I also say that its hard to sell affordable sets that need more expensive gear. KZ is typically mindful of that but hits a harder to drive one occasionally especially with the switches.

[@ProtikC]

@Jp_116 and @PaulWasabii Which one would you both recommend for listening to bass + distortion guitar + vocal from the QKZ x HBB , Castor, Wan'er ? I already own a PR2 which I find flat while listening to classic rock, electric guitar or any old recordings, otherwise it is superb. I am not a bass head but I don't like too much treble either like my PR2 has.

[@Jp_116]

@@ProtikC I also have the PR2 and I must say, I'm also disappointed with it due to the sibilance. Also just like the Khan, it needs more power. But with a good DAC/AMP it does shine. I just can't get over how sibilant it is at times though. Now to choose between the QKZ × HBB, Castor and Wan'Er. I need to preface first that I don't use any DAP and only use my phone and Spotify (and sometimes my cheap USB-DAC) to listen to music. But for this test I won't use my USB-DAC. So my experiences may differ with yours if you use HiFi EQUIPMENTS. I would just share my experiences and let you decide which one you'd prefer. Also, another thing to point out, my Wan'Er is the Jade version and not the OG version. I'm not sure if there's a difference between the two since I lost my OG ones for a while before I bought the Jade ones. Some say there is but IDK. Additionally, the Castor have all switches turned on. Now,I don't usually listen to classic rock- wait, scratch that- I don't exactly *_know_* what songs are considered as _classic_ rock. But to be more transparent, here are the songs I listened to while comparing the three. Also my volume was at 70%. 📍 Highway to Hell by AC/DC 📍 I love Rock and Roll by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts 📍 Under Pressure by Queen & David Bowie QKZ × HBB = Volume at 70% was loud but not as loud as the Wan'Er. Better to listen at around 25%-40% instead. Guitar distortions are even more less fatuiging compared to the Wan'Er. Sub bass has more oomph than mid bass but they tend to bleed into the mids sometimes. In Highway to Hell, the vocals were more forward while the guitars could be heard a little bit more placed somewhat in the back. Soundstage is a tad bit bigger than the Wan'Er. Castor = As usual, 70% is loud but less than the Wan'Er I feel like. Better to have it maxed out at only 50%.Treble at the 70% volume is more fatuiging. Some guitar distortions are okay (Highway to Hell) while some are a bit fatuiging (I love Rock and Roll). Bass is handled better than the QKZ × HBB. Soundstage is the most open out of the three. Also most resolving one. But sometimes there's an issue with high-pitched vocals where it sometimes get pushed behind among the instruments. While easier to drive than the PR2, I feel like this one still needs a bit more of a boost compared to the Wan'Er and the QKZ × HBB. Jade Wan'Er = Out of the 3 this is the most comfortable pair for me. Volume at 70% was VERY LOUD. Better to listen at maybe 40%? Had the least bass out of the 3 but it was still there. Most "relaxed" sound out of the 3 and had more clarity than the QKZ × HBB. Treble wasn't offensive nor ear-grating. Even the guitar distortions were okay with this one. A little less resolving than the Castor but more than the QKZ × HBB. Soundstage is much more claustrophobic than the QKZ × HBB. Has the most "in-your-face" vocals I feel like 😂. _Edit: spelling_

[@ProtikC]

@@Jp_116 Thank you so much mate for such a good analysis and your efforts in replying, I really appreciate that! And, you're on point with the tracks ha ha! 😅 Wan'Er kinda sounds safe for everything. I think I would love it very much, after all it's all vocal that I am most interested in when it comes to Pop songs followed by guitar solos/riffs in rocks. However, I already ordered a Castor 😑! So let's try my luck this time! On the part of hifi equipments I don't really own any DAP/DACs yet. My next purchase would probably be some decent dongle dac for my PR2. Thanks again mate and keep enjoying your music🤝

[@Jp_116]

@@ProtikC no problem! Glad to be of some help to you. I would have replied sooner but life had to get in the way, sorry. Also, the Castor is pretty good for pop. You won't be disappointed! The Wan'Er is also good but it can be a bit boring to some. But if vocals is your priority, the Wan'Er is indeed the better of the two. I actually use it for listening to ASMR since the vocals are more forward. Anyway, hope you get to enjoy your music better now!

[@jhanillemula8125]

Thank you for giving us an honest review. I was planning to buy some but was having second thoughts but now Im ready to purchase it. Tnx so much

[@PaulWasabii]

Eh, a ton of people bought Castor at this point. Its a low risk set as long as you prefer more bass. Also be sure to try all the tip sizes, get the fit right.

[@prithviraj4794]

There is one relationship in this mortal life which effortlessly scores above all other known relationships on this Earth. Feeling confused? Don't scratch your head too much as that extraordinary relationship is none other than that of the Mother..!😊😊

[@andrisumana2559]

7hz zero, cca cra+, kz castor, sgor venus.. those was so damn good at that price..

[@pasokhbeiran]

I found one in IRAN and it's just 5 unit and five lucky guys bought this gem because here you can't find the good iems and I bought for reasonable price because due to the sanction everything is more than 2 to 3 times of original price

[@migracing8232]

This is the biggest joy of Bass in my face I've heard in a long time. This might be subwoofer level bass. I don't think any iem comes close to the bass of this Castor

[@PaulWasabii]

You can get picky and point out midbass or subbass in other sets that might come close, or you can just enjoy it as you do.

[@migracing8232]

@@PaulWasabii Seriously nothing comes close not even Qkz X hbb I tried it Lusya Ef04 amplifier with impedance adapter Omggggg, the bass is insanity and it still remains clear with this amount of bass. I don't know how that impossible

[@andreachen9614]

@@migracing8232how about compared to qkz x hbb khan? (Not the qkz x hbb regular version) is the bass better? Meaning more punch and speed?

[@migracing8232]

@@andreachen9614 I don't have khan

[@moonsofjupiter]

The KBear Rosefinch and 7Hz Legato actually have more overall bass because of their elevated sub bass and the Castor’s sub bass roll off.

[@JohnClarkW]

I have the Castor black, and it is my favorite under $20 currently. I still think the Tanchjim One DSP is my favorite under $30, but I liked the bass on the Castor enough that I ordered the Tanchjim Tanya DSP to see if I like the bass tuck more on that.

[@PaulWasabii]

Very nice. Castor seems to continue gaining listeners which is great. KZ typically winds down for the end of the year, we'll see them again in 2024

[@raffrodog121]

Thanks You convinced me to get it. I previously used chu 2 and edx pro before that. Hope this one rocks cuz I really like bass and I'm on budget.

[@PaulWasabii]

Castor bass or KBEAR Rosefinch for those who like a lot of bass.

[@mecmkhumancha]

I already have Tangzu Wan'er (not studio edition). It has a very well balanced warm sound signature and is good for clean,soft music and female vocals. Its bass is clean and well separated but I always feel wanting for more bass. In songs like Love Me Like You Do, the bass is not pronounced enough. The highs are suppressed and it feels lifeless for some genres. The mids are good for vocals and clean instruments but can't handle distortion sounds. I mostly listen to rock genres. My preferences are extra bass (not bleeding to other frequencies), good treble (not very bright), good mid for guitar sounds, clean separation of instruments and good staging. I want a more exciting sounding iem than Tangzu Wan'er. Will Castor be a good choice for me in this price bracket?

[@PaulWasabii]

Yes, but you will quickly figure out that changes are not in isolation. More bass might sound better on some tracks than others you enjoy with Wan'er. Basically you need to try it, IEMs are about balance, not just more/less bass

[@nwananka]

Waiting for your castor pro review. I love my castor bass

[@PaulWasabii]

waiting for it to release

[@nwananka]

@PaulWasabii soon i guess because i already see it on sale on AliExpress

[@prabhusankar8346]

Nice review man i have already ordered one.

[@colddish]

Great review as usual. I’ve set all switches to off as I find the bass switches not doing much and the treble is already very brash without turning the treble switches on. Interestingly I find the bass driver a good one, it’s got details and powerful at the same time. The smaller driver, though, other than being aggressive, it’s a bit one dimensional. Perhaps a bigger driver might smooth out the treble a little. That said I actually find its a wee bit better overall implementation than Legato.

[@PaulWasabii]

Yep, music plays a big part on how you hear the switches and why I kept moving them. The shape of the curve too. I think the treble got caught between the price and the bass level. Did they use their best 8mm DD here? Maybe not at the price. I agree, there are times where the treble got to me but I do think they painted themselves into a corner. Its pushed too hard but if they had rolled back the treble level, I am not sure it would have been better. I get what you are saying and why I didn't dig into it, at this price and tuning, not sure there was an alternative. If you just look at the treble level on the graph, its up there and hard to pull that off even on a DD. I'd say EQ or a filter on the nozzle will work too.

[@Allaces305]

Nice review Paul and cool watch..👍🏼

[@shushin4651]

great review, i'm sold, 1 set is on OTW :D

[@PaulWasabii]

It has been a slow burn on it. There aren't that many big bass sets at the price with decent drivers.

[@tdtdtd1826]

They are just excellent

[@zish3655]

Hey Paul, loved your review. Could you please compare the Krila and the Castor as you own both sets. I'm afraid the Krila might sound too thin (like 7hz zero) for my taste. Thanks!

[@PaulWasabii]

Yeah you are right there, maybe two extremes, Castor with the bass and Krilla is more upper range-y thin. The Castor standard might be in the middle. But really, you are picking up Castor bass for the bass, Krila is more on tech details with that BA. Two very different sounds.

[@ruddra_nick_biswas]

​@@PaulWasabii what about dynamic range between them I want to buy one but don't know which one I usually play competitive game!

[@Gadgetibles]

Great review chief ..I listen to mostly hip hop and Rnb music which will you recommend this kz castor or 7hz zero 2 ?

[@PaulWasabii]

Castor bass is more fun, but Zero 2 is a safer choice if you like the look of it. Kefine Delci is another you might look up for that style of music.

[@Arc_Noir]

Compared to the ZVX, which one do you think is better overall?

[@PaulWasabii]

Castor, the bass version, is for people who like a lot of bass. ZVX has decent subbass but more of a general purpose set. Castor is more of a specialist that will do ok on general music, but its focus is on the bass. If you are looking for a general set like ZVX, D-Fi was a better set in that style

[@FabianReyesBahamon]

Hey!, This was a really interesting review, very detailed by the way. I am wondering, where do you made those graphics? is there any webpage that allow me to do any graphic comparisons between IME's? One thing else my friend, i love my KZ EDX, are perfect for what i am used to listen to... but i want upgrade into the Castor's Harman normal edition... do you think it will be a perfect step ahead?. Thanks for that great job and have a nice day. Greetings from Colombia (South America).

[@PaulWasabii]

You need to zoom in to one of them, there is a URL on the page that goes here: pw.squig.link/ and you will also find links to lots of other reviewers and their measurements.

[@FabianReyesBahamon]

@@PaulWasabii Oh paul, Thanks, this is really interesting!, Thanks a Lot Greetings from Colombia

[@rrg.r2456]

Is the KZ Castor you have on Squig the Standard or Improved Bass version?

[@PaulWasabii]

Bass

[@aadi2134]

do those driver different freqs or its all coverage on both dd?? btw love your vids

[@PaulWasabii]

KZ doesn't say usually, but one driver should do 20-300ish, the other does the rest.

[@blinkblik6924]

The khan had too much bass for me i can only imagine how this sounds 😳🤯

[@PaulWasabii]

Yeah, I think the 2DD is a desirable concept, but the perfect tuning and configuration has been elusive. Mostly why I said that KZ put the right price on it, let people hear it without a $30+ price. I think they will get feedback and re-visit the configuration again.

[@Anonymous-gh6xf]

General rule of thumb. Avoid HBB sets. They're all bass boosted trash except maybe Olina.

[@shushin4651]

nope, HBB X KZ PR2 is quite good@@Anonymous-gh6xf

[@housepianist]

@@Anonymous-gh6xfyeah his tunings tend to favor just rock, which is fine is that's what people like but they really don't work for most other genres.

[@soFwhat21]

i bought base version of castor which is balanced version for 5,65usd but cost me 11 usd with tax.

[@dhanursehgal2343]

Great review, Paul! I'm looking for basshead set under 50$, How is Castor bass compared to Rosefinch, Juzear Clear, and KZ ESX? (considering bass quality and quantity, subbass rumble, clarity in mids, vocals/tonality)

[@PaulWasabii]

Rosefinch is usually the default choice. If necessary, you can add a tuning filter or micropore tape to the nozzle to make it a smoother basshead. Clear has too much trebles for me. Castor bass is really more of a heavier bass set and not a basshead set because the way the subbass arcs so it will sound more natural. There really isn't a perfect basshead set

[@dhanursehgal2343]

@@PaulWasabii the only problem I found with Rosefinch is muffled sound and lack of clarity. Not sure if there is a better alternative to Rosefinch with similar bass performance but good tonality, vocals, and clarity

[@bazilhussain3378]

Great review, how are these for gaming though? Iam a Basshead and I listen to music and game for long sessions aswell so I want to know wether I can hear the footsteps clearly and if the sound staging and imaging is good?

[@PaulWasabii]

If you read some impressions, the treble level is up there on Castor, that is where you will catch sounds over the bass. Typically more bass is less imaging so you need to be careful with bass and footsteps at the same time. That case would be better with Castor standard. Or setup an EQ for gaming that tilts the bass down for gaming, up for music

[@hokagoteatimereviews]

Great video Paul, I am curious how I will feel about this 😂 That is ridiculous amount of bass I would love to see how I would feel about them. I was supposed to get the castor but never heard back from KZ.

[@erfangholami8578]

Thanks for the detailed review! I have recently bought the base enhanced version and was wondering since they both have the same drivers, is there a way i can get the sound of the normal version out of it? like turning on specific switches or using Equalizer?

[@PaulWasabii]

Equalizer can get close. I haven't heard the Standard but standard should be close to the Harman target for AutoEQ.

[@Ender9714]

I switched from edx pro to this headset and I am very happy, thank you for the review. I have a question. In order to get the highest bass, we need to activate all 4 buttons or is there another method?

[@PaulWasabii]

Either all 4 or 1,2,3. I usually look at the listing on kztws.com to see the switch positions

[@AuDiGo6]

For less bass exists KZ Krila - the same IEM but with BA unit.

[@PaulWasabii]

Yes, KZ likes to try variations and some people will prefer the standard version with less bass but still 2DD.

[@VinterEvig]

I'm new to the IEM world and digging you channel so far. I recently upgraded to Arias from the BLON BL-03, but found the Arias to be shouty and unpleasant. What would you recommend under $70? I listen to alot of death metal but also alot of hip hop

[@PaulWasabii]

Yeah the shout is real, you are sensitive or listen loud. Let me save you some money, buy this Micropore tape: www.amazon.com/3M-Micropore-1350-1-rolls-yards/dp/B06XNP8J4R/ And read this: www.audioreviews.org/how-to-remove-treble-peaks/ On Aria, you just need a slight piece of tape between the nozzle and your ear to lessen the shout. You can be lazy and cover the whole nozzle to start, then cover partial to hear the difference. It is better to try that for a few dollars than spending $50 on a new set.

[@VinterEvig]

@@PaulWasabii Thanks for your reply! I will definitely give this a shot.

[@philholder-z5m]

Blon BL03 are just fantastic iems for general use.

[@namle3742]

Which do you think is better for listening to a wider range of genres, the Harman Kardon, Bass, or Hidizs MS1 Galaxy S? I usually listen to pop, ballads, and some EDM. I'm only using an LG V50 without any external DAC. Please advise me. I'm looking forward to your answer.

[@PaulWasabii]

Kefine Delci might be out of your budget, but that is the current trending set. Castor Harman is fine too .

[@MuhammadTanveer-gw3pt]

Off topic: Please share which smartwatch did you wear in this video?

[@PaulWasabii]

Galaxy Watch 3

[@dvdarshan]

This or the Wan'er? Which one will you pick and why?

[@PaulWasabii]

Wan'er is close to Castor Standard version. This is the extra bass version for people who want extra bass over a set like Wan'er

[@bhanudobwal4578]

Did you use a DAC during testing? and if so was there a huge difference

[@PaulWasabii]

Everything has a dac, your phone, a dongle, etc. But Castor will not change much from phone to dongle.

[@mregg304]

Hello there! Thanks for the detailed review! I have a question how much volume are you using on these? I just got the bass version and I have to crank it up to 70% volume on my phone to feel the bass. Is this normal? I hope you can answer my question! Thanks

[@PaulWasabii]

Yeah you are about to fall down a rabbit hole. Most people buying these sets use a dongle or dac/amp of some sort to avoid that problem.

[@rowa4kuhd219]

Compare to Kz Zsn Pro X. Which one would you prefer to recommend? This two are my choices but I just need 1 & I'm new to IEM's please I hope you can help me. Thank you

[@PaulWasabii]

Castor bass is for people who like a lot of midbass. KZ just released the ZSN Pro 2 which is closer to an upgrade of the ZSN Pro. Or get CCA Polaris, great affordable set with switches to move the bass.

[@CanadaCan-ty2jb]

Castor bass vs tangzu waner sg , which one is better? overall for the bass , mid and treble.... too much treble is a headache for me !! So what's ur recommendation?

[@PaulWasabii]

Castor will probably give you a headache if you are treble sensitive. KZ tends to be a bit brighter. Wan'er or if you can find a Truthear Hola would be better. Make sure you get a tight fit otherwise all sets will sound brighter than they should.

[@gerrykomalaysia2]

Which better? Kbear rosefinch or this ?

[@PaulWasabii]

Just my opinion, KZ has better drivers. Rosefinch was the right tuning for the right price and a nice set on its own. Until Castor arrived.

[@gerrykomalaysia2]

@@PaulWasabii in other words, and my summation, Castor oil is better than roses

[@prithvi9727]

That's 👆 a fabulous REVIEW FORMAT for a video - all points neatly mentioned so the viewer understands the 'direction' of the item being discussed. Excellent review of the KZ Castor Bass version. I was (strongly) advised to buy these as a newbie to IEMs by the Seller & having watched this, I think I should test these out. Appreciate the help via the review.

[@PaulWasabii]

Yes, Castor bass isn't exactly middle of the road on bass, hence the name, but you need to start somewhere and its a fine starting point. If you want something more average, KZ EDC Pro

[@prithvi9727]

@@PaulWasabii Okay. Let's see how it starts for me as long as my small ear canals can reciprocate. Thanks!

[@skysteven]

Is this good for general purpose? Sometimes I create beats in FL Studio, sometimes gaming, sometimes watching film and I am wondering if this is good enough

[@CybertroninfiniteOfficial]

Get studio reference headphones like audio technica m40s, you need accurate sound, not bass boosted

[@melonman-o8n]

Do you think this is good for listening to jazz? or are there any other IEM's?

[@PaulWasabii]

It is but remember there is a standard version with less bass. Some jazz has a heavier bass presence and doesn't sound great with a boost like this version

[@vinuvarsidh9754]

This vs KZ zsn pro 2 . which is better. I would like more natural sound and less bass and clarity on sound . please suggest

[@marufiqbalsofficialchannel]

Heard that the zsn pro 2 is a bit too much harsh

[@PaulWasabii]

Look at the ZS10 Pro 2 as the bass has switches and more natural

[@SileDevil]

how is the fit? they look humongus, i might get this just for fun, just to have a nice bassy set to complement the ew200. Out of KZ Castor, TRN MT4, QKZ x HBB, which one is the best as a fun set? looking for good quality/quantity bass and crisp but smooth treble without being fatiguing.

[@PaulWasabii]

No, they are small compared to KZ ZAT. I didn't measure it, but KZ has sligtly increased the nozzle width on some sets to accommodate the tubes. But the shells are typical KZ sized in the middle of their range as they have smaller and quite a few larger.

[@maciejpilip8903]

Castor fits my small ears quite well. In comparison I was not able to put Truthear Zero into my ear canals at all and QKZ Khan hurt my ear canals real bad due to their nozzle diameter. As for the sound I'd take Castor over QKZxHBB and over the Khan. And also I'm keeping the Castor in my collection (pleasant surprise) while recently I returned Simgot EW200 (unexpected disappointment due to driver flex and hissing female vocals).

[@SileDevil]

@@maciejpilip8903 got my ew200 yesterday and yeah i agree, they are too much hype, extremely neutral and thin sounding, i like my 8$ Trn Mt1 Max on xtra bass setting better, sounds fuller and has more depth, also better for gaming at high volume.

[@spekky6248]

What about Build quality compared to Tangzu Waner?

[@PaulWasabii]

Most sets have a better build than Wan'er, including this one. People don't complain as Wan'er is affordable and nice sound quality.

[@rtr-28]

Waat is the best tuning setup for Kz castor ? Any suggestions... I use UUUD

[@PaulWasabii]

There is no best, just try them all with your music.

[@thakkhu1686]

Sir for bass kz castor or xens top or xen up and meastero mini or monarch mark 3 which is best for great boom boom puchy bass can u suggest one

[@PaulWasabii]

I would start with Castor black. I say that as each set is different how it handles everything else above the bass. Start with the cheap one before you invest in a Fat Freq

[@Siapasokongpenyamun]

Hi PW, currently i'm using trn st2 and jcally ja04 as my dac. Will it worth it if i upgrade to castor bass?

[@PaulWasabii]

If you like big bass. Its not hard to drive, but it has a big bass curve

[@lewisevander]

How is this compared to the qkz x hbb?

[@PaulWasabii]

Haven't heard that one

[@lewisevander]

@@PaulWasabii ok

[@rage_B3AST]

@paulwasabi how’s the condition after 9months? I just booked it today but i have a doubt is it going to last long enough?

[@PaulWasabii]

Mine are fine because I don't carry them around. If you carry them and stress the connections, expose to more moisture, these are things that cause failures.

[@rage_B3AST]

@@PaulWasabii ohh thanks alot buddy, and which 3.5mm to type c DAC dongle you use to connect them with your phone? I have iphone 15plus and i saw many of them not work properly in iphones

[@ogemmi]

Vs sgor adonis, which one should i buy? My previous iem a bit attacky in my ear in high frequency

[@PaulWasabii]

Not sure about Adonis but Castor has a touch more midbass. Adonis looks like a more relaxed treble on the graph but I never heard it.

[@ogemmi]

@@PaulWasabii i see, should i go for iem in 60$ budget like kz zs10 pro x or it's fine with this kz castor? Because i really want to try multi driver iem but kinda afraid doesn't like the sound of BA driver (or do you have any recommendations in 60$ for multy driver iem, bass and doesn't harsh in high frequency) Ty for the response btw Have a great day sir 🙏

[@jeffmerheb3182]

Castor vs 7hz Zero, which one is better?

[@PaulWasabii]

Castor bass if you want more bass. If you care less about bass, 7hz Zero. It is a leaner, more detailed sound

[@muralimohan8157]

Better than kz zex in sound quality?? Reply me

[@PaulWasabii]

Different as Castor Bass has a very different bass shelf. Stick to ZEX as that set is nice.

[@haxman777]

my KZ castor Bass edition are grey and they dont have a magnet in them, just checked after your video and their eartips are white not black. are these fake? 🤔

[@PaulWasabii]

KZ uses both white and black. I would contact KZ though www.kztws.com/pages/contact-us-1

[@Golisodaaa-69]

Dudes I'm really soo confused I'm not sure what i want ,for me it's first time buying IEM, i want the best one can you help me by suggesting which is best Kz castor harman target or kz castor Harman target with improved bass?? Could you say honestly which is best and better?? Which is best buying?

[@Rahul2k03]

bass version but remember they are not giving the actual eartips they used to give... you have to spent 200rs on eartips

[@PaulWasabii]

The difference is bass level. Does your music have a lot of bass? Get the bass version. Don't care about bass, get the standard

[@choydeliverer7162]

i'm on the fence on whether i get the dq6s or the castor. which have better bass?

[@PaulWasabii]

Castor bass. Try to stay with recent KZ sets, the older ones were good in their time.

[@freefoyah2992]

For you does castor bass sounds sharp or fatiguing in the highs? Im a basshead so I wonder if I going to regret if I going to buy this set.

[@PaulWasabii]

Yeah that is the case here, its not really a basshead tilted down in the treble set. You are reading it right, this is more of a bass enhanced Harman rather than basshead

[@dawiddabrowski3279]

Which setting swich will be the best for this iem

[@NNN_h4u]

Down down Up Up

[@migracing8232]

This cheap iem have a fuck you bass. Holy shit, I just got mine today and it's still clear with this amount of bass. I've never had too much fun with an iem except this.

[@abhik6503]

Hey mate, I have the qkz hbb and find it slow warm and muddy. Do you think the casor black is tighter with more speed and clarity? Your thoughts please.

[@migracing8232]

@@abhik6503 If you gonna go for Castor just make sure you're prepared for this level of bass. It reaches your soul, I've Qkz X hbb and it's not even close. Castor bass isn't slow either but it's enormous.

[@migracing8232]

@@abhik6503 It's clearer than qkz X hbb even with the amouth of bass it has. It's like a subwoofer

[@abhik6503]

@@migracing8232 wow, so are your impressions on based on stock sound right, that is without using the impedance adapter?

[@M_Huzaifah]

7Hz Legato has more bass than this.

[@D.E.E.P.Y.]

Costs as much as McDonald's meal in Canada. Just bought it to have a V shaped bassy set home.

[@PaulWasabii]

You are the KZ target for this one, get to try something different at a reasonable price.

[@fr4nz51]

What's the difference between bass and harman?

[@rage_B3AST]

Bass version has inhanced sound and bass it’s better

[@AditRanks]

Castor Harman std Vs Cca polari, is betteer?

[@PaulWasabii]

Never heard Castor standard but I'd still choose Polaris looking at the graph. I am not a bright fan and Polaris is more generally appealing in the treble

[@muudus_tv]

How does its bass compares with CCA PLA13

[@PaulWasabii]

Different as PLA13 has a ton of subbass and Castor is more midbass, much less subbass.

[@MrReaouz]

Which is better kz merga or kz castor?

[@PaulWasabii]

Merga is quite bright if you want that. Otherwise Castor

[@Weaztek]

Anyone have the weight of each monitor?

[@jorgecazares6016]

Are they better than the Kz ZS10 pro x?

[@PaulWasabii]

Not an easy answer as the ZS10 Pro is a nice one, a balanced V shape set with less boost at both ends. So I wouldn't say Castor is better but different. KZ just released a new set called ZAT, that might be closer to ZS10. Those sets from that period are quite nice and KZ is just getting around to revising the hybrids now with ZAT.

[@apnerve]

I have both and ZS10 Pro X has better instrument separation

[@jorgecazares6016]

So is the ZS10 pro x better?

[@apnerve]

@@jorgecazares6016 Hehe. There can never be a straight answer to that. For me, yes. But again it’s unfair to compare them considering the price. For similar price, I’d say Moondrop Chu2 is better with the default settings (all switches turned off). But the moment you start tuning it, that’s where the castor shines. With 1 and 3 turned on, EDM and Hiphop are much better on castor.

[@thomasre9382]

@@jorgecazares6016 Yea they are better, they also 3 times the price lol

[@Illbegoodinthefuture]

I bought the Khan when I have already had the Castor Bass for a few weeks and I was super disappointed. I think the Khan was a bass king once, but the Castor Bass just ruins it in almost every regard.

[@PaulWasabii]

Yes, I am a 2DD fan, but not as much with Khan and Zero. Plus the nozzles are too wide

[@shackle1960]

is this good for music mixing?

[@PaulWasabii]

Sure, but the bass is boosted quite a bit. I am not sure you want to compensate in your head the difference between the mix and the boosted tuning

[@AintPopular]

which one do i choose for gaming

[@PaulWasabii]

I wouldn't personally choose Castor bass, the standard version is better, clearer. A ton of bass doesn't help gaming imaging.

[@AintPopular]

@@PaulWasabii Thanks

[@denisbasshead7787]

Paul those have better and more bass than esx??

[@PaulWasabii]

Generally yes, but ESX is a special set. People are buying Castor bass because it has a big bass bump and holds together fairly well. The bass shelf on ESX is probably closer to what I like. I would put Castor in the more category but it also has more treble. It isn't an instant win, the tuning on ESX was interesting and I don't think KZ has revisited it yet.

[@denisbasshead7787]

@@PaulWasabii i have 2 esx iema because my first the left side stop play sound ...at my second esx i have different sound with the same settings ... they have more uppermids trebles and no to deep bass like my first esx iem ..but the strange is one other thing the DD magnet dont have the holes like my first esx ..different tuning for sure and maybe another qualitty DD ??

[@TheStemo1]

Whered you get it for $15?

[@PaulWasabii]

Sorry, Linsoul had it for a lower price when I had posted that, it was less than $15. If you aren't in a hurry, wait for the 11-11 sales. Now Linsoul.com and kztws.com are the same price.

[@NitishKumar-mh4nj]

Is these better than ccz coffee beans, If one is bass love person & missing berlin raves :(((

[@PaulWasabii]

It doesn't have much more bass than the bean, take a look at KBEAR Rosefinch for more boom.

[@前田日明-w8u]

I guess this boosted mid bass sounds muddy.

[@PaulWasabii]

Not as muddy as 1DD would be but there is no magic here, they picked a crossover that let them have a big bass and not destroy the mids. The clarity version is the standard one.

[@gauravpadiyar6370]

Kz zsn pro2 or castor?

[@PaulWasabii]

Neither is better, just different flavors. Castor bass if you like more bass.

[@Justacapybara9000]

I don't know Paul this is KZ we're talking about after their past incidents I don't trust that both DDs are actually functional

[@fiddlix]

Way past time to move on. I think KZ has done the damage control that they are going to. They have put out some good sets since then.

[@Justacapybara9000]

@@fiddlix you're right but also at the same time i feel that the moment people let their guard down they may return to their old ways

[@PaulWasabii]

So in the new designs, the 3D printed tubing and crossovers, its harder to have that situation again. I would never say never, but I think they have moved past those days on a technical level as to how the current sets are designed. Will something else pop up later? Maybe

[@Bakashi]

If both DDs are not functional, wouldn't that mean it wouldn't make sound at all?

[@Emptyblack101]

​@@Bakashimake sense 😅

[@nischalmeng]

this vs zsn pro 2 ?

[@PaulWasabii]

ZSNP2 is a safe choice, Castor if you like more bass

[@Josephine-r7b]

7HZ 2, KZ Castor, or ZSN?

[@PaulWasabii]

Castor bass is a special set for people who want more impactful bass. Zero2 is a nice general purpose set.

[@Josephine-r7b]

@@PaulWasabii so zero 2 is if I want overall softer sound signature as how the first one probably needed more power to drive, I thought ZSN would fit in the category to as their first zen wasn't as bad as the 2nd one with a whole redesign

[@shadezign]

Comparing to Tangzu Wa'ner SG, will you still suggest this?

[@PaulWasabii]

Wan'er is more middle of the road, Castor bass is really for people who wanted enhanced bass or just like more bass.

[@RobinJesba]

Being a bass guitarist should i buy this? Or should i find any balanced sound iem?

[@PaulWasabii]

It is no doubt bass boosted, that might bother you and get fatiguing. There are switches to dial it down so you do have some flexibility. I don't think its a bad place to start especially if you use the switches to figure out your preferences.

[@rickoneill4343]

Most artists prefer more harmen curve sets which are more neutral and balanced to hear details. Also as said above, on set too much bass will be very fatiguing.

[@enricosevenfoldism]

Is it easy drive to phone without using dac/dap?

[@PaulWasabii]

Yeah, KZ has only a couple sets that are harder to driver, such as the planar. But this set was designed for phones.

[@enricosevenfoldism]

@@PaulWasabii thanks man nice info, i would grab this one as the hbb khan was way difficult to harder even with full volume the bass is not there

[@kontrolenthusiast1099]

Ordered the Legato killa for $16. 😂

[@PaulWasabii]

I don't know if it is a Legato killer, but going to be a more popular option for folks without dac/amps and Legato money.

[@kontrolenthusiast1099]

@@PaulWasabii It arrived today! Burning it in overnight maybe longer, can't hurt. I believe

[@dann.4920]

If this has too much bass to some, i wonder what the harman version sounds

[@PaulWasabii]

Lean. Most "Harman" sets are bass boosted at the 200hz tuck so it is more generally like-able on popular music.

[@woocifer]

I just got these based off of this video and I'm pretty disappointed. As a pair of headphones to listen to music, they will do all right...but that's like if you need to replace absolute junk. They have bass, they do ok as earphones, but as IEMs they are absolutely useless. I plugged them into my soundcard to jam along to some tracks, and even the music tracks were fizzling into digital noise. But beyond that, they just didn't have the clarity you would need to find any sort of separation in the audio. My ears have a slight ring to them after using these as well, which means the frequency rushing through those little holes is harsh and unfriendly... I tried the settings with the up up down down...ok so look I don't mean to be mean, but if all you listen to is digitally generated bass and some guy mumble rapping over it, go for it...I listened to some metal on it and they were ok, but like I said, as soon as I tried to use them as in ear monitors, they were absolutely AWFUL. Save your 20 if you're looking for entry level IEMs. If you just want something to watch youtube with or listen to DJ Fresh Willy or whatever, go for it. They are good budget buds, but honestly you'll grow tired of it if you try them with any other application.

[@PaulWasabii]

Did you get a good fit with the tips? I'd guess there is something else going on. Not that it is the most amazing set in the world but the lack of separation is what a bad fit sounds like.

[@abominablearex6487]

I got it for 12 dollars

[@DonnaWhite-z8d]

Garcia Michelle Thomas Scott Garcia James

[@SyamsQbattar]

How KZ Castor bass compare to KZ D-FI switch?

[@PaulWasabii]

Castor is a big midbass bump and D-Fi is closer to a leaner Harman sound. D-Fi is generally more popular, Castor is for the bass fans who like a bit more slam and impact which you don't get on D-Fi

[@SyamsQbattar]

@@PaulWasabii thanks

[@geno8079]

I can't take the bass😢

[@PaulWasabii]

Well, there is a Standard version

[@Nu-MetaI]

No offense but you talk alot of nonsense. You should be straight forward if bass is muddy, mids are bleeding and treble is sibilant. Also is it fatiguing? Thats the consumer wants to know.

[@migracing8232]

Trust me, he loves to ramble.

[@PaulWasabii]

Its actually not straight forward and as I said, the interaction between the bass level of your tracks and the pinna area is everything here. Two big boosted areas are going to cause all those things you mentioned or none of them depending on the track and how it hits those areas. Is the stage big or small? I realize you want a single answer, but you can easily put together tracks that are fatiguing and not fatiguing just looking at the graph. Tracks can avoid 10 & 12db areas, but they are still there waiting for the next track.

[@kontrolenthusiast1099]

@@PaulWasabii Worth picking up if you don't have any DD sets? Best of the bunch or excellent value only because it's $15? Am I going to hear something special that the Simgot EA500, TRN ST5, KBEar Rosefinch (Bass set), or KZ PR2 v1 don't provide?

[@KmtS9]

@shimotsukiushimaru2847 @migracing8232 I prefer a more detailed and nuanced discussion as Paul tends to go for. If you don't like this style, there are A TON of other reviewers out there. Literally no reason to comment shit like "you talk a lot of nonsense". Nonsense is going to a sushi restaurant and being mad coz they're not serving fried chicken and burgers - which is what you are doing watching a nuanced video looking for a short, straight to the point video. Both have their place, both have their pros and cons. Audio is a subjective hobby to get into. Describing our individual experiences with single words isn't always possible. But if you want that, AGAIN, feel free to browse other videos.

[@АлександрПреображенский-ь7ш]

Очень много воды(бесполезной информации). Ни один график АЧХ не даст понять, как на самом деле звучат наушники. Все эти провалы или подьёмы в частотах не дают представления о звуке. Проще сказать, что басов много или мало, середина провалена а верха задраны. И типа эти наушники больше для рока или EDM, чем для джаза или классики. Мне кажется, так было бы куда информативней.

[@Emptyblack101]

We'll get the non bass version

[@simkim608]

@paulwasabi Anyone help please is it good for fps games

[@PaulWasabii]

There is a lot of bass. That is typically a no for fps, but up to you