KZ ZS12 Pro X - Metal Shell, More Detail

[@dalarcoin6851]

The ZS10 pro 2 was already really bright for me. Even brighter is kinda nuts. I'm gonna wait until KZ wises up and puts the Castor Bass tuner guy back in charge haha.

[@mayonotes9849]

Castor Bass really is unironically one of their best tuned IEMs. They really should bring back the way the switches affect the FR on the CB to their new releases.

[@denisbasshead7787]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@denisbasshead7787]

Try the Hidizs MS2 🤟🤝🤟

[@dalarcoin6851]

@@mayonotes9849 I would say that the castor bass is one of the best tuned V-shapes in general. I tried a couple of of the v-shapes from Meze at Canjam NYC that were better, but honestly, for Iems only the variations were potentially better, but even then not necessarily, and it highly depends on preference. Plus, I don't feel like ANY of the iems I heard really got more detailed than the hexas, so I honestly feel like many could have stopped at the old castor....at least before they got silent revised.

[@JohnClarkW]

Castor bass and Vader balanced are the only good budget sets they have done, and the CCA Hydro gets lots of praise.

[@PandorusFightStick]

i got these the other day and are my 1st IEM. They are really good, but are very bright but a good EQ and sound amazing. i use with my old fiio A3 amp and this amp brings these IEM to life. i have a new hobby now, so looking to get some other IEMs now!

[@PaulWasabii]

Yes, they are kinda bright as I said. You are saving yourself a lot of money with EQ as the drivers are nice, just need a tweak in tuning.

[@PandorusFightStick]

​@PaulWasabii yeah I got a very good eq on these now, but now gone down the rabbit whole, just got the Hades , Blon z300, as I do like bass. think will get the legato next and interested in the hbb Ew300

[@DEFKNIGHT]

The Castor is where it's at. Just flip all the pins to on. Awesome IEM

[@dvdarshan]

One user from Reddit said that the KZ silently downgraded one of the Castor's drivers Is it true? If yes, that makes all the reviews irrelevant now 🙂

[@DEFKNIGHT]

@@dvdarshan What do you mean silently downgraded. You mean a different driver used? I bought mine early on, so I wouldn't know anyways. But if true, that would be a mistake unless it somehow improved the sound.

[@jamesbb4]

​@@dvdarshan People on reddit are a bunch of pearl clutching KZ haters. Most of them shitting on kz have never had one. They just repeat a bunch of stuff others have said. Fake outrage about some things that they really don't care about.

[@DEFKNIGHT]

@@dvdarshan Your right if it's actually TRUE! BUT! It's hard to believe anything now because, way too many people are speculating without actual proof. I'll believe it when I see it. They have been pressed to earn our trust again for a minute now. If they are doing us wrong on purpose again, I get it. But it can't be biased speculation anymore! It's gotta be legit!

[@MarkPlier-id9ni]

​@DEFKNIGHT If you don't have the white wires and got foam tips, you got the first revision.

[@iyervenki]

your pick between the KZZS12 Pro X & the CCA Rhapsody (My favorite budget hybrid) ? Thanks for yet another great video.

[@PaulWasabii]

Rhapsody unless you do like a brighter treble. Rhapsody is still the one of the best budget hybrids and will be hard to topple.

[@lemond5672]

Hey dude, im wondering to buy new iems to replace my truthear crinacle red and i want something thats less natural and gives me more precision in the sound ( so i can know where the footsteps are coming from ( in a gaming scenario) ) which one would you advise me ? And if i have to chose between the kz prx and the kz zs 12 pro x which one would you adhere to

[@Thee.Mighty]

ordered zs12 pro waiting for it, I have zs10 pro x

[@riskes__]

which one should i buy among the two

[@johangama8505]

any update? how is it? how is the micro?¡

[@pal1969]

Greetings I have the Zs 10 pro and just bought the Zs 12 proX, . Humm I must say for my taste. ( Love clean Bass & clean treble) The 10 Pro sounds twice as loud, even with the switches that the 12 proX has. The Zs10 Pro. Has Better Bass.

[@Thee.Mighty]

I like both, 12 I use for music, 10 for gaming, 10 sounds louder as it has lower resistance.

[@lazylazy6969]

How do you feel about them own the zs pro x and was looking at these zs12 pro x

[@MariaAudioChick]

Rewatched after hearing a few raving reviews, one was TDM. My preferences seem to lie between yours and his. Though kind of interesting is before that I was tinkering with my Zs10prx and now looking at the 12 graph, best guess is that I've settled on something close in tuning 1110 OR 1111. I just did a quick EQ -1 4K/ - 2 8k and TANYA filter. Do you recall if it came with a filter or metal mesh? I'm pretty sure I only have Tanya over a metal grill. I need a rig😭 I'm too addicted to mods and too much of a nerd not to want my stats. Plus I'm sick of buying sets that sound the same, would help to know where I'm landing with my tuning. I have the black s10 so it's already gonna look fairly similar but I'm down to customize the faceplate if it's worth getting. Do you think this is worth the upgrade if I like this sound profile? I know the drivers are new, there's an extra, and the shell is all metal, so it's gonna sound somewhat different. At $30, I could always mod it if the drivers are good for it.

[@MariaAudioChick]

I eqD to 12 and added some at 2/5 to make up for what I think the Tanya is doing. Sounds very different. Soundstage got more open and the details, wow! It is bright but sounds really spacious and light while still being bassy. And that subbass is kicking!! Different than what I'm used to which is what I've been waiting for. So maybe I answered my own question. Lol. Still look forward to your thoughts but I think I'll get it!

[@PaulWasabii]

I didn't watch TDM's review, but its a solid set. I tend to find spacious without bright sets. Everyone hears it differently and listens at different volumes but bright sets tend to work for short periods for me.

[@pukhrajkumar7255]

If we take KZ PR2 as reference then how would you define the level of treble of these 2 in the video with the PR2?

[@PaulWasabii]

There isn't a PR2 reference which is the problem with that set. The early models has a treble level very close to ZS12/ZS10. Later there were PR2 models with more treble, then later less I believe Generally, PR2 should be about the same but as I said, there was a lot of variation on PR2

[@pukhrajkumar7255]

I get it. So, if you take the latest iteration of PR 2, how is the treble level of ZS10 pro 2 and ZS12 Pro X?

[@Josephine-r7b]

ZS10 Pro X vs Pro 2? I currently use a KZ ZSN Pro 2 with bass boost & I found that diffrent tracks the treble will hurt my ears unless its a Bass emphasis track but the presence of the dynamic range isn't quite up there compared to the DCMEKA AO9 (DSP) I'm still unsure if this will suite well at comfortable high volumes but as far as I know most KZ's i've used had to have equilizer. I usually desire not using an equilizer so im hopong the switches will compensate. I am sure these will be an interesting paor regardless

[@PaulWasabii]

Right, KZ tends to use more treble than less. KZ EDC Pro might be a better choice.

[@Josephine-r7b]

@@PaulWasabii i've used the regular EDC & I found that the KZ ZSN Pro 2 worked out better but I'm hoping that it would be an upgrade

[@lakshyasanodia2415]

hey i want a iem around the same price as this which should i buy ?hey which is the best iem in the same price range around these 2 ?

[@PaulWasabii]

There are no best IEMs at price points usually, whether its $40 or $400. Start with KZ EDC Pro and that will give you an idea of what you prefer in your next set.

[@wrbrown571]

​@@PaulWasabii Perfect answer! I really enjoy this set. EDC Pro is what I've bought for people wanting to try IEMs. Bought a set for my brother for $6. If you want to go brighter like the KZ ZS12 Pro X, I recommend the CCA CRA (silent update). Got one for someone for $12. I also have the ZS12 Pro X. Picked up the tuning version with mic for $36. For me, it's super fun. I tip rolled to the TRI Clarion wide-bore silicon for the cleanest sound. I had occasional harshness with the foam tips.

[@troy_secker_drummer]

Do you have any KZ recommendations for drummers in a live setting? The KZ ZAR & ZS10 Pro keep being recommended on forums etc., but just wondering if you have an opinion on this?

[@PaulWasabii]

The ZAR has a crazy amount of bass, kinda surprised that works for people. ZS12 has crazy nice metal shells but kinda heavy. ZS10 Pro 2 has switches to vary bass levels and metal faceplate. To be brutally honest, I'd start with KZ EDC Pro, dirt cheap and not overly boosted, nice amount of bass but not ZAR levels.

[@defeater1stgaming983]

Can you recommend some tuning for zs12? Like for bass,mids, clarity and etc

[@dhruvpatil4560]

I am thinking to buy one of this but I am still a bit confused as I love to music alot and I love it in high quality but I don't like harsh treble but I like good bass, so can you please tell me which one should I go for?

[@dhruvpatil4560]

And i have tried kz pro x before and I feel it's treble was also bit harsh so can you please suggest me which one should I go for

[@PaulWasabii]

Right, the brighter sets like zs12 will sound harsher. Sometimes you need to get larger tips or get the fit right. That is why KZ does sets like EDC Pro.

[@demondjackson2875]

KZ won’t stop

[@PaulWasabii]

Can't stop, won't stop

[@MariaAudioChick]

Their making plenty of stops at the bank $$$ 😂

[@titanpsytrance3723]

Paul, you did a mensurement of the Edifier GX05(2.4ghz tws) you remeber? I have not seen a review of this in your channel, i have only one question, the audio quality and technalities of GX05 can be on pair with 10-20usd wired in ear?

[@titanpsytrance3723]

Can be compared* sorry for bad english, i'm brazilian

[@PaulWasabii]

Typically not for music without some tweaking. That set was for gaming and had some boost in areas useful for that. I tend to EQ tws so they are closer to wired signatures and then you get in the ballpark, but remember that a $20usd wired set is very good at music. Might suck for calls or games, but they are tuned for music. TWS tend to general purpose signatures but they are still decent DD drivers.

[@umeshlahiru9435]

I brought kz Zs10 pro x but i think i need a bit more bassy IEM.. Any suggestions amongst this price category for me to buy? I'm okay with any brand.

[@PaulWasabii]

KZ Saga Bass version

[@m_yy_m]

Thanks! I've been waiting a while for this review. ZS12 Pro X vs CCA Hydro? Is it worth spending the extra money on Hydro? Is Hydro as or more detailed with less shrillness? There's a new version of the TRN VX Pro with plastic shells. Is the ZS12 Pro X as bright/piercing as VX Pro. I'm interested in a set that has very good layering without being too fatiguing.

[@wahid-lg1kk]

Hydro

[@PaulWasabii]

Hydro will live another day as the flagship. The AS24 Pro is going to get you closer and some just want an all BA

[@wahid-lg1kk]

@@m_yy_m you might like trn ba16

[@TheRebelLion13]

Hi there Paul! How does it compare to the CCA Rhapsody?

[@fiddlix]

Rhapsody for my ears.

[@TheRebelLion13]

@@fiddlix Yeah. After watching the video and hearing Paul's feedback, I kinda got the idea that this isn't any where near close to the Rhapsody.

[@grendelicious]

I guess KZ don't feel obligated to do transparent shells anymore lol

[@PaulWasabii]

They drop a unique shell rarely. Mostly they re-use as they continue more 3d printing

[@solastro5595]

ZS12 pro x compatible with the AZ15 wireless Bluetooth set?

[@PaulWasabii]

That is a question for KZ but I would say yes. The only issue is the connector as there are a few KZ models with a different connector. ZS12 is the right one.

[@denisbasshead7787]

I wish to have in this model iem the metal nozzle but it is what it is

[@anatol1204]

With the 4th switch only up what happens?

[@Thee.Mighty]

it lowers highs

[@rawkao1001]

ZS10 PRO X VS ZS12 PRO X Which one is the best?

[@rawkao1001]

​@@faisalfirdausiinn4708 The video clip didn't help at all.

[@faisalfirdausiinn4708]

@@rawkao1001 i wonder how it didn't help at all. ZS10 Pro 2 is the better one over ZS10 Pro X. With that information, you should already able to decide whether to choose ZS10 Pro 2 or ZS12 Pro X.

[@PaulWasabii]

These are all flavors. ZS10 Pro X is the most fun, ZS10 Pro 2 is more refined, ZS12 is low volume, brighter for people who like that. There is no best, just the one that matches what you are looking for. If you don't know, get EDC Pro.

[@Josephine-r7b]

​@@PaulWasabiiI found the sound on the regular EDC being less qualitative then the ZSN Pro 2 but if the Pro version is much better it would be hard to be sure especially considering my experience with the regular EDC & ZSN 2

[@siddarthgrewal]

Zs12 prox vs ZAR please?

[@Jp63a]

Would an upgrade from the zax to these be worth it?

[@PaulWasabii]

Not ZS12 unless you want brighter. Closer to ZS10 Pro 2 which is using better drivers. Also look at getting re-acquainted with KZ by looking at KZ EDC Pro, Saga, or Dawn. They look cheap but are high quality and resets you to modern KZ sets

[@Jp63a]

@PaulWasabii I'm more interested in the full metal body since the durability was my main problem with the ZAX, and I wouldn't mind experimenting with the sound since the ZAX was my first iem

[@SupremeVsuals]

*are these the tunable version?*

[@faisalfirdausiinn4708]

Watch the video.

[@PaulWasabii]

Yep. I didn't look closely, usually the non tunable is usually close to a switch setting but not exactly the same.

[@GaerEEd]

vs kz terminator...?

[@Requiemxo]

Brother what is the best kz for gaming and music ?

[@PaulWasabii]

My opinion, KZ X Angleears Libra X. It is super clean, but if you want something more musical, EDC Pro or KZ Saga balanced

[@rajbasu4801]

Which type of midrange do you like warm or open sounding.

[@PaulWasabii]

I will gravitate to open with warmth, but too much warmth needs a crazy good upper range which usually doesn't happen. If a set sounds inward or less than open, I will probably eq

[@MariaAudioChick]

What eq settings for tr would you recommend for this?

[@mypetvelociraptor]

Hey question, are you a musician? Or are you using these for video games and things?

[@PaulWasabii]

No and no. Just listening to music

[@ronak-31]

KZ zs12 pro x or truthear zero red? I am more into techno, house mix and acoustic

[@PaulWasabii]

I'd go Zero red or even KZ EDC Pro. I shy away from ZS12 as its brighter. But if that is your thing, then ZS12.

[@kygo8303]

@@PaulWasabiiHi Paul, what do you recommend if i want something sound like the EDC PRO but more expensive ( under 100$ ) and sound better , basically a direct upgrade from the EDC PRO is what I’m trying to say 😅 .

[@sayan5600]

Zs 12 pro x vs symphony which one is better ?

[@PaulWasabii]

ZS12

[@AnthonyBartolome-b3j]

does it have microphone built in

[@PaulWasabii]

No, but sometimes KZ offers the microphone cable version

[@gurukantdesai4225]

Is it close to the ZAR?

[@PaulWasabii]

ZAR has a lot more bass

[@siddarthgrewal]

Zs12prox vs ZAR please?

[@PaulWasabii]

You would pick up ZAR is you like a lot of bass, otherwise ZS12

[@marcswinnen9100]

Maybe without the switches hits the nail it happened before😊

[@PaulWasabii]

This wouldn't surprise me

[@tech4life365]

What is better kz zs12 pro x or kz castor?

[@PaulWasabii]

If you don't know what to get, get KZ EDC Pro

[@vladimirfilipovic8832]

​​@@PaulWasabiiedc pro is better than zs12 pro x ???

[@tech4life365]

Should I get this or kz castor?

[@visal8638]

Does KZZS12 Pro X has fake product?

[@fredtettey]

do you recommend this for female vocalists?

[@PaulWasabii]

Its ok, going to be more energetic female vocals

[@dvdarshan]

This vs Simgot EW200?

[@PaulWasabii]

If you like to experiment, ZS12 gives you a few bass curves up to the EW200 level.

[@gnatsinthepizza]

I own both, and both are excellent. Coming from the EW200, the first thing you notice about the ZS12 is that it's brighter, BUT the ZS12 handles complex music a lot better, IE it's far less muddled. Good for rock, which is my thing. The EW200 has a great driver and also a touch bright. I love them both..so why not buy both.

[@likhith-kumar.]

Generally.... Are KZ iems reliable? I'm extremely interested in getting this as a long term rig.

[@PaulWasabii]

Generally yes as they are one of the top producers and have one of the largest ownership numbers. Some models have problems, typically the older resin style shells. I'd also say generally, most brands have the same problems.

[@likhith-kumar.]

@@PaulWasabii thank you so much sir

[@okay1904]

It takes a lot of discipline to STOP buying budget KZ IEM's costing between $10 and about $50. A lot of discipline. Very tempting prices, and very glossy product marketing. The reality is - you can only listen to one at a time, so unless one is a reviewer, I see no point in having more than one or two of these KZ's.

[@MZRTMusic254]

A lot of discipline 😂 one of the few moments I'm thankful I don't have a lot of money 😂😂

[@PaulWasabii]

Yep, this is why I tend to spend more time on some, Polaris, edc pro, hydro, Rhapsody. You can certainly buy those in between sets, but usually KZ drops some important ones, then some randos

[@Sporek]

Shut up! I want them ALL, NOW!!! 😂😂😂

[@okay1904]

​@@PaulWasabii I bought the polaris, and it just sounded really horrible. Could be quality control. It was really bad. Made me wary of KZ. Could also be a fake!

[@fahadkhan9534]

Is zs12 pro x gives better sound quality on 100% Volume then zs10pro x ?

[@PaulWasabii]

They are slightly different flavors, neither is better. ZS12 is nice though if you are looking for metal shells.

[@fahadkhan9534]

@PaulWasabii which one is more Funn after high 🚬

[@marcswinnen9100]

They sell it cheaper without switches😊

[@faisalfirdausiinn4708]

is there no switch version?

[@marcswinnen9100]

@@faisalfirdausiinn4708 yes cheaper

[@dvdarshan]

​@@faisalfirdausiinn4708 Yes

[@marcswinnen9100]

@@faisalfirdausiinn4708 yes

[@мелодииаудио]

Привет что музыкальней 10 PRO X & 12 Pro x

[@MariaAudioChick]

12 on sale rn for $30-ish. I must have slept through ZS12 and ZS12 Pro 😂🤓 Working at KZ must be... Interesting 🤔🙃

[@gadgetgenerationspulkit]

I tried this unit at a friend, Bright and piercing for my taste :/ Really harsh.

[@PaulWasabii]

Yes, as i said, the KZ tuner who prefers bright has his hands all over this one. Not as bad as others, but it is a style they have been using on some sets. The point is to get people paired to sets that match their prefs and I am with you, but some people like the extra trebles.

[@matija656]

Good thing I didn't jump on them early, since I already have zs10pro 2, this video is perfect. Thanks, this made my decision to not order it

[@PaulWasabii]

Glad to be of service. Honestly, better to not buy and wait than buy and not like it. Pro 2 is a nice set, hit a nice target.

[@Helmond2017]

I think KZ as a brand should focus more on their single dd offerings.

[@PaulWasabii]

KZ usually round robins thru DD, hybrids, planars, etc.

[@Helmond2017]

@@PaulWasabii Yeah, they had more success recently with DD IEMs.