The Story of CCA Hydro Flagship & KZ ZS10 Pro2. Review & Comparison

Join me to examine the offerings from Knowledge Zenith, CCA Hydro & KZ ZS10 Pro2
00:00 Introduction
01:47 Specs & Configuration
04:36 Sound & Performance
14:12 Rated & Compared
Link to IEMs Ranking Spreadsheet:
docs.google.com/spreadsheets/...
#donglemadness Dongle Ranking List:
docs.google.com/spreadsheets/...
Shot On:
- Sony Alpha A6700 (Native 4K50P XAVC HS 4.2.2)
- Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM (Video)
- Viltrox FE 85mm F1.8 (Secondary)
- RØDE Wireless Pro
- Monitoring Headphone: TAKSTAR Pro 82
Test Tidal Playlist:
tidal.com/browse/playlist/54c...
My Metal Playlist:
tidal.com/browse/playlist/59c...
My Gaming Channel:
/ @feveredpitchdelirium
My Twitch Channel:
/ fpdelirium

[@bokomokoksarimanoktiktilaokkok]

This is why I trust my gears based on Andy's unbiased review. Many people cannot move on from KZ's past. Great review! Thanks Andy!

[@Execrat10n]

CCA = Cringe China Audio KZ = Kennel Zero

[@donglemadness]

Thanks so much. Really appreciate this!

[@mehmetgurdal]

How can we? They blatantly change the tuning, lie to the customer, lie to their partners, offer money ün exchange of positive cover and when we discover this they blame the reviewers and collaborators for following a trend. They could have turned the negative tide by simply accepting their mistake and being honest. Their new models have been great. But if you have a negative stigma and this is because of a legit reason, no matter how many products you release this doesn't change.

[@wahid-lg1kk]

@@mehmetgurdal the idea of 'stigma' is fallacious reasoning. You are buying an IEM, not hiring their crap marketing department.

[@mehmetgurdal]

@@wahid-lg1kk oh I wish only issue was their marketing department. Lets put all these drama aside ok? Lets forget the drama for a moment. İn this case KZ is still behind the competition in almost every department except the ultra budget segment. Their accessories suck, presentation suck and they fail at impressing people at anything above 50 bucks.

[@demondjackson2875]

I’m getting a Hydro. I like my rhapsody 😊

[@jondandavekinanahan7488]

So how is it?a good upgrade and how about the technicalities?

[@fiddlix]

Great review Andy, love your cat (my father was a veterinarian) I love animals as well as great sound. As far as KZ and CCA goes, I’m hanging tight to my CCA Rhapsody. As far as hybrids go I’m digging the Pula PA02 atm. The PA02 tickles my eardrums just right lol😂. Cheers 🥂.

[@JoseFerreira-zb7wh]

I also have rhapsody but believe me, hydro is a class (at least one) above.

[@fiddlix]

@@JoseFerreira-zb7wh I am well aware of that fact, I just prefer the Pula PA02 overall as far as tuning goes. Regardless of where the tuning switches are on the Rhapsody.

[@JoseFerreira-zb7wh]

@@fiddlix i understand that, i didn't mention the pula. I only said the hydro (featured in the video) is really worth it over the rhapsody (you mentioned) as i've tried and own both. Never tried the pula or the same cklvx so can't comment on those.

[@fiddlix]

@@JoseFerreira-zb7wh I’m much in the same boat as you but I don’t have the hydro. I hear it is a great set.

[@donglemadness]

Thanks. Cats has always been a source of laughter and joy to me. Having Geoff doing his cat antics, I am always amused and laughing here, lol.

[@andr192]

i got the CCA Trio the other day and it is INSANE value, i am extremely happy with them and kz/cca are making some amazing products now

[@jamesberryman9893]

Fantastic review, Andy! I have never tried CCA IEM. I may have to check one out. I have a handful of KZ IEM's, and they definitely do not disappoint.

[@donglemadness]

No worries, from the CCA side, you can always start with the cheaper CCA CRA, then this Hydro is pretty much the top of the bunch

[@rotschreck4085]

The reason KZ has such bad reputation is due to stealth updates they make. You have to buy their products as soon as they get released because if you wait, they make unannounced changes that makes future purchase of an IEM different from the one they advertised, and often an inferior one

[@nmatheis]

I started in the hobby looooong before KZ. I started with Shure E2c and then E3c paired up with my Sharp MD5 minidisc player/recorder and iRiver IHP120 player/recorder. The IHP120 was amazingly full-featured for such an old DAP with line in/out, optical out, and the best remote I've ever seen for a DAP. KZ has come a long way. When I first tried then maybe 10 years ago, my eardrums felt like they were getting branded with hot irons from the overly sharpened treble. Now I've got a few pairs AS24, PR2, and Rhapsody. All are very respectable IEM, and the AS24 is super fun to play with!

[@wulfstanToF]

Pretty good presentation. Recently became a fan of KZ IEMs but a bit shaken after seeing their old negative news of the fake drivers scandal. At least I still enjoy what I got which are the ZSN Pro X for gaming and SZ10 Pro X for music. Will buy the ZS10 Pro2 to add to my collection later.

[@donglemadness]

Thank you!

[@adnanibnkhaldun1414]

The drama maker apologized to his mistake finally, but few users know about it.

[@wahid-lg1kk]

My first IEMs were KZ. I still buy KZ when something is interesting.

[@j.w.s.743]

Great review! I have the CCA CRA+ and it is one of my favorite IEM’s. In my humble opinion I think it is VERY underrated.

[@donglemadness]

Totally agree!

[@BallinLikeMike23]

Glad to see you finally cover the CCA Hydro great review!

[@donglemadness]

Thanks! 🙏

[@nathz2020]

Great job my friend, i also got the kz d-fi i follow your tuning number 4 switch in and i really like it😊

[@donglemadness]

Thanks as always :D

[@wyvp5823]

I'd love to see your take on the KZ x Angelears Libra, since I've been enjoying listening to it more than my D-FI and ZVX (using the balanced version of Libra). These three are just like siblings, being Libra the cheapest in construction yet the better sounding one in my opinion.

[@SoliNolis]

Vouch on libra balanced, i love its more forward vocals than the other kz sets ive ever tried, and its hecking cheap, well not really surprising for kz.

[@wyvp5823]

​@@SoliNolis I just feel like the Achilles' heel of Libra (being fragile resin shell) is also a contributing factor to its sound, so we can't get away with it not being flimsy at times. One of the connectors came a bit loose for me and I've seen complaints from others with the same issue. KZ might be a great cost benefit and also an excellent performer, but I can't easily recommend them. Who knows when they will do a stealth revision on the next batch... 😒 I'm really digging Libra balanced tho!

[@SoliNolis]

@@wyvp5823 I agree, although I havent had any issues with any of kzs yet, this ones build quality is subpar, it is very light tho. I honestly wouldnt mind if they add annother 10$ just for a better build. Tuning is great, is there any other cheap iem with similar tuning to this balanced libra? (props to angelears),the only that comes to my mind is wan'er but libra just have better bass and treble

[@donglemadness]

I look forward to that too. Just stay tuned :D

[@Crashboomwallop]

I have and enjoy the zs10pro2's crisp treble-presence.. and the excellent spacious cca Trio.

[@TheWorldTeacher]

Namaste! I recently purchased a pair of the KZ ZS10 Pro2 but returned them as they were not so great in the treble.

[@readistreet9383]

What an stress thinking the box would fall down jeje, thanks for the video!

[@donglemadness]

Lololol. Sorry for the stress induction. And thanks!

[@CJ-usa]

This video good thank you!! ...still use my zs10 pro X and CCA HM20 alot!!

[@donglemadness]

Thanks!!!

[@geardawg1358]

Thanks Andy, good video, not surprised that the Hydro is pretty decent, If I wasn't saving for something a little more expensive I'd love to try it, I'm very happy with the CCA Rhapsody I have!

[@donglemadness]

My pleasure!

[@stunnaboymercy]

I bought the PR2 because of your review, 4 or 5 years ago. Great iem and recommendation. I paired it with the Megatron, still using it to this day. Thank you Andy, absolute legend‼️‼️‼️

[@donglemadness]

Hey hey, thanks! And my pleasure

[@marlonsalugao6272]

Thank you very much for the intensive unbiased review and comparison. Very well explained Kudos to you sir

[@donglemadness]

My pleasure

[@_-Z-]

I believe every company experiences their share of successes and failures if they exist for any length of time. KZ has received more bad press than most and many people even dismiss them as a serious option due to past mistakes. I think every product should stand or fall on its on merits. I appreciate that you're willing to review each product as you experience them instead of a company's reputation. Thank you for a great review! 👍

[@donglemadness]

My pleasure

[@idan1242]

great review man 👍, thx

[@donglemadness]

Thanks! 🙏

[@jb678901]

To me the KZ ZS10 Pro 2 design and price point is best compared to the CCA Rhapsody. The Hydro is at another level. IMHO. Disclosure: I do have the Rhapsody and have been pleasantly surprised at the performance for this sub $40 set. Worth every penny and a solid RECOMMEND. The HYDRO arrived today and I am wearing it now. Size/shell/nozzle...SAME as the Rhapsody. Both are pretty big and need the proper tip choice to optimize seal and fitment. I use an after market (medium) silicone wide bore with stiff rubber inner core to ensure deep enough fitment; to avoid the width of the IEM extending too far outside the ear concha. I often hover between a Large or a Medium tip depending on the IEM and the tip choice. [For example, with my MP145, I am using a Large tip.]. Construction quality and design...very good for both the Hydro and Rhapsody. My Hydro also came with the upgraded cable...which I estimate is worth an equivalent $35-$45 on an AliEx sale, imo. Am I pleased with the Hydro, so far? You betcha. It's a clear step up from the Rhapsody, although the later is still no slouch and remains a solid recommend. I have not played with all of the Hydro switch settings yet, Will burn it in a little more before moving off of the ALL Switches ON factory settings. Do I agree/follow Andy's assessment, after wearing the Hydro [(paired with the upgrade cable (3.5mm) and my BTR5 (Gain On)/LDAC] for a few hours? Yes, the tuning on this IEM is very very good. Would I rate below my S12...they are close for sure...but I would prefer the Hydro. For planar, much prefer both my MP145 and ARTTI T10. I would definitely buy the Hydro again. It has not disappointed me, thus far. If anything, I would dump my HEXA (1DD+2BA) hybrid for the Rhapsody...and dump both for the Hydro.

[@bk_panther_]

I got these and I am happy with all of them. Each got a little better for me and they are all relatively affordable. 1. 12-28-23 --- CCA C12 2. 01-01-24 --- CCA PLA13 3. 03-24-24 --- KZ Zar My favorite for now is the HiDizs MP145 which I got on sale for about $130. I am still waiting for your review on the HiSenior Mega 5 EST before I make possibly my last IEM purchase... I am not betting on it will be my last but I am trying to be positive for my wallet... lol

[@donglemadness]

Lol...once bitten there seem to be no stop eh? haha

[@TheWorldTeacher]

I recently purchased a pair of the KZ ZS10 Pro2 but returned them as they were not so great in the treble.

[@Otawakun]

bought the zs10 pro 2 cause i thought the faceplate is easily removable. Despite it having screws its still glued on. I designed some 3d printed faceplates for it but now i went to deep and now modifying the crossover circuit to tame the highs. Interestingly one of the twin BA is out of phase with the other drivers

[@vidyutmazumdar4549]

I have an ancient kz set the metalic blue ZS7 and its my favorite kz.

[@moose5100]

Just found your channel and I gotta say it's like finding a gold mine. I love your content and just wanna know if you will be reviewing the tri i3 mk3?

[@donglemadness]

Thanks for the support. Yes I have seen the Tri MK3 announced recently, I will try to get one for review

[@RadoDani]

SIM Ejector Tool also know as 📎 “paper clip”😉

[@kygo8303]

Hi Andy I’m going through your ranking IEM list and I’m noticing the KZ D-FI (around 20$) are ranked really high and above all the good, more expensive iem in the 50$ to 100$ price range, now I’m really curious and i might order a pair to test it out 😆 .

[@malamucik2096]

D-Fi, Krila, Castor, ZVX, CCA CRA are all very nice IEMs

[@donglemadness]

And for good reasons, ZVX and DF-i are the ones tuned differently from KZ house sound and offers Etymotic sort of precision and performance

[@kygo8303]

@@donglemadness Ok Thank you Andy, I’m decided to get one to try it out, there’s 3 options, Kz Krila, Kz ZVX, Kz D-Fi, i like a bit of bass, warm and relaxing sound signature, which one out of those 3 fit me more in your opinion. Thank again .

[@JoseFerreira-zb7wh]

The problem with kz is they launch too many iems too fast, even for chifi! So they end up launching some bad ones along with some good ones, some reasonable ones and once in a while some really really good ones. They end up being criticised for the bad ones of course. They should put more time and thought into their release plan and only release from good ones up (maybe some reasonable ones once in a while 😁) less quantity, more quality. This is a chifi problem, but very noticeable with kz/cca.

[@MZRTMusic254]

The problem is this is a subjective field. What might sound good to me may not sound good to another person. But they should take note of their most positively products and figure out what was so special about them that made the majority like them more and try more of that but once in a while leaning outside their comfort zone

[@JoseFerreira-zb7wh]

@@MZRTMusic254 yes, it's always subjective but you're also right on the second part, and that's what i'm refering to. Products that are generally well received and sell well are good. Products that are heavily criticised and don't sell well are bad. Not sure about sales numbers but you can get a grasp at general comunity opinions on forum's, reviews, reviewers comments boxs and the sort. Not exactly scientific of course but enough to get a general idea, specially when on the extremes.

[@donglemadness]

Agreed. I wanted to tell them just take it easy and don't rush things. Let the good ones like Hydro or a few others even DF-i soak in their success, don't keep on producing new stuffs every month, lol

[@JoseFerreira-zb7wh]

@@donglemadness yes. i like the direction they took launching zs10 pro 2. Polishing up and refining good successful models every few years seems like a good idea instead of just launching new ones. Plus it must help sales as they start from a well known and reputable model. I'd say stick with launching only good ones (as you said take their time developing and testing them) and build up on past success. Launching new models every week confuses people. For the costumer it's like playing the roulette, you never know what you're going to get. You just know what you wish for.

[@faisalfirdausiinn4708]

CCA Hydro trade blows with Simgot EM10..? So Hydro is pretty much a must have then..

[@Bovineicide]

Give Geoff lots of treats. Also Lifelover \m/

[@donglemadness]

Expendera!!!! Lol Geoff bullies me for treats hahaha, or he will bite my legs until I give him something 🤣🤣🤣

[@skustaclee8899]

Heyy Andy, did you try to Pair Hydro with Hiby FC6 or Onix Alpha? How's the performance, like how will you describe it?

[@donglemadness]

As noted in this video, I drive it primarily with ONIX Alpha on 3.5mm SE side. The sound that I described in this video is the combo of ONIX Alpha with Hydro mainly

[@FATfreq]

first of all thankyou Andy for this wonderful video, initially I was thinking of Supermix4 but now I can see CCA Hydro is setting higher in your ranking list so obvious its a better option... so as Hydro has more driver then Supermix4 if I EQ to my test will Hydro perform better from its price category?? please Andy let me know ..... 🙏🙏❤❤

[@skustaclee8899]

If you just know, Hydro is almost in the same league of ThieAudio Hype 2, 150-300$ atleast can compete, since most of these range are full of hybrids, tribrids.

[@donglemadness]

Thanks. The thing is I don't use EQ so I am not the best person to answer this. But assuming that Hydro reacts good to EQ then the possibilities are there for sure

[@FATfreq]

@@donglemadnessi forgot you don't do EQ.. bye the way i tried my luck 🤞 to win your giveaway hoped that I will get one supermix4 or hydro but not successful... He he 😜😂😂, two of the same name wins twice 😂😂.. Jokes a side I will again compet in 100k sub giveaway 🥰🥰.. I am very happy for you Andy 💖 congratulations 🎉👏 Again 🙏🙏

[@matomarquez.2596]

Any iem you recommend for metal/hardcore under $50? The best you've tried for that price in terms of good instrumental separation, soundstage and stereo imaging; balanced sound but with a bit of bass boost, high mids that aren't shrill and good treble extension.

[@donglemadness]

Under $50 that will have to be KZ PR2 or even Tanchjim ZERO

[@hmf33]

Hey there! I wanted to ask if either of these are some of the better IEMs at around it's price range for all around vocals? (Male and female.) I'm looking for the "best" IEM around this price point for clear and accurate vocals with QDC connectors to pair with Bluetooth adapters. Thanks!

[@donglemadness]

Unfortunately for QDC type connectors, your choices will be limited and I would recommend you get CCA Hydro if you can get one

[@wiredblue]

What cable would go with these iem's you recommend that will bring out their best? Very nice presentation.

[@donglemadness]

Thanks. For ZS10 Pro2, I would recommend a more refined OCC Copper like NICEHECK MixPP 6N. The CCA Hydro is already equipped with a very good cable

[@wiredblue]

Thank you very much.

[@jeffjemaol5009]

Which do you prefer ii gaming, Simgot Supermix 4 or CCA Hydro?

[@donglemadness]

Between the two they are pretty much very similarly matched, both hybrids and both very holographic with crisp imaging, so just pick any one of them and you can't go wrong

[@Franciscoxds]

How does the zs10 pro 2 compare to the cca rhapsody?

[@donglemadness]

I hope someone with Rhapsody can answer this

[@shamnoor07]

Ofc 4driver n 2 miniatures.. More driver more quality sound... Same like car's... More HP more speed 😊 But atm im upgrading amplifier...for bedroom only . headphones amplifier Now im using MQA THX HIRES DSD amplifier 🎧 240 ohms Fyi.... I don't have any knowledge about iem Mostly iem i using listening TIDAL, movie n a bit classical music..

[@donglemadness]

Worry not, there's always a start for everyone. Cheers

[@AbuHurairah-fu3ki]

Which one will you suggest zs10 2 or sigmot ew200?

[@donglemadness]

Depends on what sort of sound you are after, EW200 is more musical and less colored but ZS10 Pro 2 is more technical and vibrant, less transparent. What you prefer will determine which one you will like the most

[@hotomahotoma584]

Which kz headphones do you think sound the best in sound of flatness?

[@donglemadness]

The closest one would still be KZ DF-i and ZVX equally. Even the KZ Linglong, they are close enough to being neutral with mild boost in the lows (similar to Etymotic ER2XR)

[@techinfactz]

any iem around 50$ , which overall scores more than 60, in your list?

[@donglemadness]

TRN VX Pro, Tanchjim ZERO, KZ Krila, KZ DF-i, KZ ZVX & KZ PR2 all under $50 and score 60 and above

[@MDIRFAN-le7nw]

SIR, I WANT TO GET THE BEST IEM FROM KZ. WHICH ONE SHOULD I GET ?

[@donglemadness]

CCA Hydro, or KZ PR2

[@jcadag8789]

Hi! Do both of them have crossovers?

[@donglemadness]

As far as I can see, both don't have crossovers, instead they use the dip switches board in place of crossovers

[@jcadag8789]

@@donglemadness thanks

[@bourjuva]

if u will touch 10000000k subs will u remember us? (i hope u wil have more )

[@donglemadness]

When I ever reach that number, I am still me. And thanks for the support!

[@FrantaPo-bc5mu]

You does not seem to count the BAs as KZ does....

[@donglemadness]

Two ways you can count them. The Knowles BA used in these IEMs came in twins. So you can either count the twin as one, or you can count them as two which is still technically correct

[@FrantaPo-bc5mu]

@@donglemadness Also let me know where did you get the info that Knowles BAs are used here. That would be first for KZ!

[@wahid-lg1kk]

Everyone used to correct my Indonesian and Malay, so I don't mind to help you, 'crisp', not 'crips'. You say 'crips'. Common mistake 😊, best regards..

[@donglemadness]

No worries :D

[@zygote8888]

Too much V is not my preferred plus i hate switch single switch still okay but multiple switch ugh! And quality reputation of KZ is lowest in my opinion

[@midredfcollierasc]

KZ .CVJ. The craftsmanship is average, the sound is average Simgot.Tanzu.epz. will be a higher level of IEM in the future I guess

[@MDIRFAN-le7nw]

SIR, I WANT TO GET THE BEST IEM FROM KZ. WHICH ONE SHOULD I GET ?

[@donglemadness]

CCA Hydro, or KZ PR2

[@MDIRFAN-le7nw]

Thanks a lot, Sir​@@donglemadness