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Review of MOE SS01 twin-driver in-ear headphones w/lots of pics!!!

This is a review of MOE SS01 twin-driver in-ear headphones. http://penonaudio.com/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=167 (manufacturer website: http://www.52erji.com/xiaomengerji)
A lot of people probably never heard of MOE before, but as it turns out you might be familiar with their sound already. It's because they were original manufacturer of dynamic drivers for a number of headphones from JVC, Sony, Audio-Technica, and others - http://www.52erji.com/category/product2. Finally, they spread their wings and took off with a new product, MOE SS01, which I just received from www.penonaudio.com and would like to share with you about. As I continue my journey to discover more high quality budget in-ear headphones from lesser known Asian brands, sometime I get overwhelmed with all the available choices, especially when you start reading about it on Head-Fi. That's why I do appreciate guidance with recommendations from penonaudio, and it also gives me a piece of mind that I'm getting genuine product since there are so many fake ones out there. So, let's take a closer look at what I found.
When you look at the box MOE SS01 arrived in, you notice right away these are not your traditional looking in-ear headphones. A clever display on the front of the box demonstrates an arrangement of dual-cylinder design surrounded by "S" letter. Along with a detailed specification in English and a list of accessories, that was a very nice compact presentation of the product. But the big surprise is when you take it out of the box and take a closer look at the actual design. Am I looking at headphones or a piece from my kids LEGO set? Will these even fit in my ears? That was the initial thought that went through my mind, and without hesitation the first thing I did was to put it in my ears for a quick test. These fit like a glove!!! The clever ergonomics with angled nozzle of the perfect length and rounded corners made it very comfortable to insert these dual-cylinder shells in my ears. These have 2 separate chambers, one for low frequency driver and the other one for mids/treble driver. A design detail of red plastic "S" snaked around/between these cylinders adds to a very unique visual effect. Not too often I rave about the cool looks of the headphones since I always put a value of sound quality as the most important factor. In this case - the design and the sound both share a spotlight. Coming out from the lower cylinder, these feature a narrow flat flexible cable with a decent build quality. I typically comment about lack of strain relief, but for some reason in this design it just works and feels secure enough. A separate flat cable from each earpiece goes down through a chin slider to y-splitter cylinder marked with "SS" and continues flat all the way down to a straight gold plated 3.5mm connector. The wire selection of the cable is OFC with a typical 1.2m length.
Among included accessories you get 3 pairs (S/M/L) of soft silicone wide bore (opening) eartips, a shirt clip, and a velor draw string storage pouch. For my personal taste I didn't find these eartips useful since I needed a better seal, so I ended up with original AT small bore tips. Keep in mind, the sound quality of these headphones is VERY eartip dependent where without a good seal you are not going to get much bass. I also have to mention that nozzle had a cloth filter, very similar looking to RE400 stick-on filters (need to confirm if it's the same in size, just looks relatively close). Each earpiece has a stamped L/R letter on the plastic red S piece which is not easy to see. But the unique shape with an angled nozzle and a slight front facing tab makes it very easy to distinguish which one is Left and Right without even looking at these. Also, I found that symmetrical placement of the nozzle between two cylinders actually allows use of these headphones with wire up behind your ears where chin-slider comes very handy to secure the fitment. As a matter of fact, I found wire down and wire up fitment to yield the same level of sound quality and almost an identical seal.
Now let's get down to a sound test. Straight out of the box at first the sound was a little too bright for my taste and bass was missing until I played around with different eartips settling on AT narrow opening one. I figured to give it a few hours of burn in with a pink noise loop to have a better assessment of the sound signature. It didn't take too long to realize these are bright mid-centric headphones with a rather surprising layered bass. I have tested analytical and mid-centric headphones before, and usually they either have hardly any bass or low bass quantity with a main focus on quality. Here, due to a physical separation of low frequency driver and mid/treble driver, MOE was able to create a very unique sound signature where you can literally hear two layers of the sound coexisting together in a perfect harmony. Bass comes with a punch of a fast attack, courtesy of a mid-bass hump, and a warm sub-bass layer right behind it, all very well controlled without bleeding into mids. On the other hand, mids are bright, detailed, and upfront, and treble is crisp and extended. This sound signature does give vocals a bit of a cold feeling, and at first sounded a little bit harsh. But after a few more hours of playing, I noticed an improvement where the peaking started to settle down. The sound is still bright, but a lot more smoother, full, and ear-friendly. I was especially pleased with how natural all the tones sound, either if it's vocals or acoustic instruments. The soundstage is definitely wider than average, great stereo separation. Thanks to a flat cable and it's attachment to the shell, I didn't experience any microphonics. Furthermore, because of high sensitivity and low impedance, these headphones are VERY efficient where you actually need to keep the volume a few click down from your usual setting. It paired up well with my Note 2 as well as FiiO X5.
Overall, I REALLY enjoyed these twin driver headphones and currently can't get enough of it. With some headphones I have to think hard if they offer anything unique or just an overlap with a similar slightly enhanced sound characteristic. With MOE-SS01 this was an easy decision because they offer a very unique mid-centric bright sound with a bass which is great in quality and quantity without being overpowering (not a basshead level). With this kind of bass and treble details you typically have to pay a price of recessed mids, but in the case of SS01 - you also get mids in your face!!! These are definitely worth checking out because they sound great, they look unique, and have a great value being currently on sale from penonaudio for $59.
Here are the pictures.
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Someone just asked me if these could be purchased from eBay and which seller to trust. It's always a tough question because there are so many fake headphones on ebay. But for those who are interested, penonaudio actually has ebay store (under "bigbargainonline") and I just saw these MOE SS01 in there as well: http://www.ebay.com/itm/MOE-SS01-Tw...t=LH_DefaultDomain_0&var=&hash=item43c1afb6d6

Alternative source
vectron said:
Someone just asked me if these could be purchased from eBay and which seller to trust. It's always a tough question because there are so many fake headphones on ebay. But for those who are interested, penonaudio actually has ebay store (under "bigbargainonline") and I just saw these MOE SS01 in there as well: http://www.ebay.com/itm/MOE-SS01-Tw...t=LH_DefaultDomain_0&var=&hash=item43c1afb6d6
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can also get it from this seller from aliexpress at the same price.
http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6396704439.html?orderId=64996927930152
Bought mine here. Also got the VSonic GRO7 from her. Quite reliable.

Review of Ostry KC06 and KC06A in-ear headphones w/lots of pics!!!

This is a review and comparison of Ostry KC06 and KC06A in-ear headphones. http://www.ostry.com.cn/item/detailPage?itemid=28 and http://www.ostry.com.cn/item/detailPage?itemid=29
I get a chance to review and to compare a lot of different headphones some of which represent an amazing value with an OK sound while others have a great sound with a price tag that makes you question their value. Once I got a chance to listen to Ostry's latest KC06 and KC06A headphones, I knew right away these represent a rare combination of both amazing sound and value!!! As a matter of fact, these headphones got quickly escalated to the top of my all time favorites. Let me tell you more why I'm so excited about these.
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Due to similarities in packaging and design, most of the review will be combined with an exception of sound description where KC06 and KC06A have their own individual style.
Starting with a packaging, I was truly impressed in how much thought went into its design details. Everything from a foam padded outer sleeve with a distinct cutout to reveal headphones under a plastic display cover to an etched out spec on the back of it (which unfortunately I wasn't able to capture in pictures due to unique nature of it) and ergonomics of accessories placement inside of the box - represent a great level of pride this company took to showcase their flagship product. I also noticed that original packaging of KC06 from 5 months ago has been re-designed, and now KC06 and KC06A look similar with an exception of red details of "A" version.
When it comes to accessories, both models include an ample amount to keep everybody happy. You get a pair of soft earhooks to assist with wearing these wire up in addition to a default wire down, a shirt clip, a soft velvet drawstring pouch where surprisingly KC06A had a wider one (more appropriate in my opinion), a warranty/spec card, and plenty of custom eartips. Both include a set of S/M/L wide-bore short stem eartips (enhances high frequency) and a set of S/M/L narrow-bore longer stem eartips (more balanced with bass emphasis enhancement). In addition, "A" model includes a very unique set of S/M/L eartips with a built in filter which I found to enhance bass performance even further. All these eartips look to be custom made, rather than cheap generic ones, and I was able to achieve a great fitment comfort and the best sound with narrow-bore tips. But for enhanced sound isolation, since I do have a relatively wide ear canal opening, I settled with my go-to UE900 eartips.
Moving on to a build quality, I was very impressed with what Ostry had to offer. Unlike your typical cylindrical in-ear shape that sticks out, these have a flat vertical design with a very comfortable fitment. For me personally, these didn't require any additional adjustment after the initial insertion. As a matter of fact, you can lie down with these on a pillow and they still feel comfortable. The body of the earpiece supposed to be made with some lightweight titanium material with a very durable construction. Both models have a similar pinhole opening at the tip and the body of earpiece, overall have an identical size/shape, and the only difference is the design graphics with a more neutral sort of question mark of KC06 and a more aggressive KC06A with red accents. The wire is attached to the back/side and gets wrapped in a strain relief which blends with a tear drop shape of the earpiece.
The cable between two models is identical with an only exception of red accent marks on KC06A model. The cable jacket, though offering a great protection, unfortunately is stiff and has a "memory" effect where after unfolding it doesn't get straight. I guess it's one of those things you have to live with. Y-splitter has a very interesting "Y" shape design, and the end of the cable is terminated with a very slim 3.5mm gold plated straight connector. It has a short strain relief, and I would prefer it a little bit longer considering wear of straight plug. Also, surprisingly there is no chin slider, though it's not a deal breaker and mostly useful for behind the ear wire fitment. Furthermore, I didn't sense any microphonics.
But as you know, all these eye-candy design details would mean nothing without a sound to back it up. Here, both KC06 and KC06A deliver with a top notch performance! Starting with KC06, I was very pleased to hear a well balanced sound with a touch of mid-centric brightness. Starting with a bass, you get a great quality with a detailed performance. I can clearly hear separation of sub-bass and mid-bass, but sub-bass quantity is just there to give sound a body rather than a rumbling to make you feel it. Mid-bass punch is snappy and quite satisfying to my taste. The bass feels a step above of the reference performance, and it's pleasantly well controlled within it's frequency range. Mids are very detailed, clear, slightly upfront but still in great balance with the rest of the sound. I really like how this performance translates into vocal delivery, very organic, with a touch of brightness, and still smooth. Treble is well extended, detailed, with enough brightness without being too overwhelming, and still very easy on your ears. For the comparison, if I consider RE400 to have warm reference sound, KC06 has a balanced reference sound.
Now, the KC06A kicks it up a notch into a direction of a more commercial sound signature with a slight v-shape cut (relative to KC06). Luckily, they did it a smart way without doing any extreme tuning to kill the mids which sounds a bit warmer in comparison to KC06. The bass here gets a refreshed quantity of rumbling sub-bass that can even put a smile on some bassheads. You still get a great separation between sub and mid bass where the later one is on par with KC06 performance. Bass is still well controlled without spilling into lower mids or the rest of frequency range. Mids are still detailed but now just a bit recessed to bring up a power of the low end. I was very pleased Ostry didn't reduce the quality of the mids except for smoothing out some brighter peaks, and just slightly scaled down the quantity while keeping most of the original attributes from KC06. Treble is still well extended, has a similar crisp performance without any hint of sibilance. Also, I didn't find any significant difference in soundstage width. A principal change from KC06 and KC06A is enhanced/additional sub-bass and slightly recessed warmer mids. As a matter of fact, I'm still on a fence if what I'm hearing as "slightly recessed" could be an effect of enhanced bass and a bit of brightness reduction.
Overall, I was very impressed with everything about these fantastic headphones. Well, almost everything except for the cable where I would prefer a softer jacket to get rid off that wire memory effect. Now, when it comes to ergonomics of the design and it's comfortable fitment and the sound signature - both KC06 and KC06A quickly got elevated to the top of the list of my current favorite headphones. I was actually thinking which one I would like better, and it was a hard decision to make because I enjoy both of them very much, and would highly recommend either. With a current price of around $60-$80 (newly introduced KC06A is higher in price), these headphones represent a true "giant killer" value in every aspect of their design and sound performance. Can't wait to see what Ostry going to come up with next!!!
Here are the pictures of individual models.
KC06
KC06A

For those interested, Penonaudio has KC06A in stock, listed both on their website and eBay store, along with original KC06 pair.
KC06A
http://penonaudio.com/OSTRY-KC06A
http://www.ebay.com/itm/OSTRY-KC06A...51194374?pt=US_Headphones&hash=item58b275eb06
KC06
http://penonaudio.com/OSTRY-KC06
http://www.ebay.com/itm/OSTRY-KC06-...95666575?pt=US_Headphones&hash=item58a930c08f

I've one of those (KC06) and I'me quite happy with the buy (since December), very good construction quality and stylish!
The sound is amazing (off that I don't have a lot of comparing experience), payed 45€ what I believe it was a great deal.

Review of AuGlamour AG-R1 in-ear headphones w/lots of pics!!!

This is a Review of AuGlamour AG-R1 in-ear headphones. http://penonaudio.com/AuGlamour-AG-R1
Lately I covered a lot of great budget in-ear headphones and hopefully was able to convince you that you don't have to spend a fortune in search for a good quality IEMs. But as you start moving down in pricing, especially below $50 mark, you will start noticing that every manufacturer has to cut some corners. When you get down to $25 level, it will not be as easy to find something that sounds great, looks great, and has a great build quality. Some looks could be deceiving underneath of cheap plastic shell. In case of AG-R1, a newcomer from AuGlamour, they were able to get very close to satisfying all these requirements. Here is what I found.
The packaging AG-R1 arrived in was very impressive considering $25 price tag. I feel like every new budget headphone release is trying to outdo their competition by raising a bar higher to make their product standout. Here you have a black hard carton box with a logo across entire top cover and a ribbon with a bear sticker (?) in the back. Once you remove the top cover, you see a ribbon going around the bottom part of the box, holding down headphones inside of the foam cutout insert. After removing this ribbon and taking everything out, beside headphones itself I found a nice soft draw-string storage pouch, a pair of earhooks for over-ear fitment, S/M/L pairs of hybrid eartips with a medium bore opening, and another pair of red foam eartips. For its price, this was not a bad selection of accessories.
The biggest surprise is when you get these in your hands and feel their weight - you will quickly appreciate their all metal quality shell. With a round flat design resembling a scaled down shape of CKR9 IEMs, these have a very high build quality. Also, the shape is comfortable enough to put your head on a pillow without them pocking you. The fitment is similar to Ostrys, but it's smaller and more comfortable; there is an air port at the bottom of the nozzle, and the back has a cool round logo. Cable is twisted and comes out from the side, supported by a decent strain relief. Due to a twisted/braided nature of the cable there is no cable cinch which could come handy during over the ear fitment since I personally don't like earhooks, but you can also use it to your advantage by twisting both of the earpiece cables to bring them closer together. Still, I preferred wired down fitment. Y-splitter is a small metal capsule without much of strain relief, but braided nature of the cable prevents it from sharp angle bending. 3.5mm straight gold plated plug has a very slim housing and also a good strain relief. Overall, cable microphonics wasn't bad at all, and with a good eartip seal you can get an above average isolation, but not enough for a total isolation during subway/bus commute.
Now, the sound quality. AuGlamour describes these headphones as "mainly for vocals", and they are absolutely correct. AG-R1 has a very clear and detailed mid-centric sound signature, but unlike most of the other IEMs in this category you also get a taste of bass. Starting with low frequencies, unfortunately you won't get as much sub-bass extension and the focus is more on a mid-bass with a faster attack. It works great for the rhythm of the music but makes it sound a bit thinner without sub-bass support. Mid-bass is well controlled without spilling into lower mids, but after 20-30hrs of burn in peaked a bit causing a mild hollow thumping effect. Nevertheless, I still found it balanced rather well with mid range - the star of AG-R1. Mids are clear and detailed without getting peaky or harsh. They definitely have a good balance between brightness and smoothness to make vocals shine, but at the same time sound a bit thinner and colder due to a leaner lower mids. Treble is clear and crisp, doesn't extend too far, but just enough to appreciate details without causing fatigue during extended listening. Staging is definitely above average with a decent width and depth; great stereo separation!
For a quick comparison, I put AG-R1 against a few of my other IEMs and found the following. My recently reviewed EP100 have more sub-bass, with mids pushed more back, and staging a bit narrower. VSD3 have more sub-bass, with mids being smoother and thicker and at the same time more recessed, and overall sound being a bit less detailed. KC06A also has a bit more sub-bass, but mids are grainy and splashy in comparison, while staging is more narrow and shallow. With T1E you get more sub-bass, and mids are way more recessed and less detailed. Furthermore, AG-R1 was very easy to drive out of any source, and I actually found it to be not as picky about source quality.
Another thing I would like to add, for an additional $4.90, Penonaudio offers a set of 5 eartips, including double flange and new hybrid "turbine" wide bore tips. I guess as part of cutting some corners you don't get as many stock tips, and if you don't have spares - you can buy these. Also for those who want a better protection for your headphones, beside an included draw string pouch, Penon has a new aluminum cases (http://penonaudio.com/Earphone-Aluminum-Box) for about $10 plus change. Those are very sturdy with a tight seal, great for traveling.
Overall, I really enjoyed AG-R1 and found not only their sound sig to be refreshing but also really liked their build quality and look/fitment. Perhaps if you are craving more bass or more rumbling extension down to sub-bass layer, these will not satisfy your appetite and will sound a bit too thin for your taste. But that's the whole beauty of these IEMs - being more mid-centric with a clear and detailed mids to deliver great vocal performance and a great non-fatigue sound adequate for an extended listening. But don't worry, these can still handle all your Top40 hits and will be able to keep up with a pumping rhythm. For $25 it's a great value.
Here are the pictures.
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Extra eartips
Hard Case

Thank you so much for this review, you just made my choice so much easier!
Are you still satisfied with these? Would you say it would be a good set for working out / gym?
Thanks

For the price they are pretty good. Some people like extra bass/beat for the gym to pump them up, these are more for music/vocals, but the bass and the beat are there, just not as pronounced.

Anyone still here? I just wanna buy it tomorrow, i usually listening to mainstream music in spotify and some pop covers in youtube, will this IEM suit my needs?
And hows it compare with Xiaomi Mi IV Hybrid?
Thanks btw

tigantabrother said:
Anyone still here? I just wanna buy it tomorrow, i usually listening to mainstream music in spotify and some pop covers in youtube, will this IEM suit my needs?
And hows it compare with Xiaomi Mi IV Hybrid?
Thanks btw
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would go with hybrids. I no longer review budget iems, but in general hybrids will have a separate dynamic driver for bass and BA drivers for mids/highs. AG-R1 is more mid-centric, good for vocals as well as rock music. Mainstream tunes need some good bass impact, not basshead, but just good low-end extension. In my opinion, hybrid will suite your music style better.

vectron said:
I would go with hybrids. I no longer review budget iems, but in general hybrids will have a separate dynamic driver for bass and BA drivers for mids/highs. AG-R1 is more mid-centric, good for vocals as well as rock music. Mainstream tunes need some good bass impact, not basshead, but just good low-end extension. In my opinion, hybrid will suite your music style better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Woww, very fast reply. Thanks for your opinion, thats help me alot

Review of KZ ED9 and KZ ATE in-ear headphones with remote/mic - a new budget KING!!!

removed.

I got a few PMs with people asking me why these were not available from amazon links I posted in the review. I guess it was sold out, but I just checked and it's available again.

Thanks for the review! I like this type of wires. The wires wrapped up in a clear rubbery shielding are less likely to get tangled as other common headphone wires, from my own experience.

dizzyman44 said:
Thanks for the review! I like this type of wires. The wires wrapped up in a clear rubbery shielding are less likely to get tangled as other common headphone wires, from my own experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wires are good, the whole build quality is great, and it's a sound that make them stand out!

Thanks for this thread, just ordered a pair of ED9 thanks to it

I have ordered the ATE today.
Nice review

Just to let you guys know, KZ ATE model now also comes in black/translucent finish which looks AWESOME!!! Sound is the same, everything from a driver to a housing is identical and still consistent with my original review, but now it looks even more like ATH-IM50
Also, Zhengnan Shop is now the official KZ seller on Amazon US where they dropped a price to $13.90 (+ $3 shipping): silver - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Y0F6IBG/?tag=vectron00-20, and black - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZPEHYRS/?tag=vectron00-20
Unboxing
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Accessories (tips)
Design details
ATE silver vs black
ATE vs IM50

Yes, I have ordered the black/tranlucent with mic.
I hope to receive rthem soon.
Gesendet von meinem X550 mit Tapatalk

Sound ISO? Best out of the two?
im getting a pair but torn up between the two!!! if you could only keep one which one would it be and why
thanks

xercurial said:
im getting a pair but torn up between the two!!! if you could only keep one which one would it be and why
thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They are so dirt cheap, I would get two. But if I have to choose one - go with ATE. It's the most comfortable and the best all-around IEM out of these two.

Nice Review mate. How does these KZ ED9 stand against Soundmagic E10. I broke my E10? I need a new pair too. E10 are old now and there are obviously better options available. I am not a basshead and I like the balanced soundstage of E10. Could you suggest an IEM that sound similar to E10? I was looking at VSD3S but I don't like the behind the ear running wires and that big piece you fit on the wires to put over the ear. I just like simple IEM design like E10. Thanks

How's this as compared to SoundMagic ES18 ?

heartbrake said:
Nice Review mate. How does these KZ ED9 stand against Soundmagic E10. I broke my E10? I need a new pair too. E10 are old now and there are obviously better options available. I am not a basshead and I like the balanced soundstage of E10. Could you suggest an IEM that sound similar to E10? I was looking at VSD3S but I don't like the behind the ear running wires and that big piece you fit on the wires to put over the ear. I just like simple IEM design like E10. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ED9 is brighter, it meant for a more detailed analytical listening, while E10 has a fuller warmer sound with a stronger beat. ATE would be a better equivalent, but you don't like the behind the ear wire.
Hang on for a few days, I will update this post with ED10 review. That one is EXACTLY what you are looking for, and it has wire down design Just got a bunch of reviews in a queue I need to finish, but should get to ED10 soon!

This is a review of KZ ED10 IEMs.
To complete the series of my KZ "giant killer" reviews, I'm going to look closer into their ED10 IEM model I received from Zhengnan store (one of KZ official resellers on Amazon). Joining an impressive line up of EDSE, ED9, and ATE, Knowledge Zenith (KZ) continuous with ED10 offering a unique design, a great build quality, and a decent sound signature without too much overlap with other models. But what impresses me the most is the fact that you can buy all 4 models and still pay less than a single pair of IEMs with sub-par sound quality. That is a reason I refer to these KZ models as "giant killers" and here is more specific info about ED10.
ED10 arrived in a shield-shaped box like ATE black edition, and it was a nice and a compact packaging with a secure storage for IEM and accessories. At the same time even so packaging box looks cool, it doesn't make a convenient storage case, so perhaps in the future KZ can redesign it considering they don't provide anything for storage as part of the accessories package. The only thing you get is 3 sets of eartips, M/L with small bore opening, and a large hybrid eartip with a blue core. That one was actually my favorite tip since it offered the best fitment due to its springy cap, and wide bore opening worked quite well to tame down the low end and open up higher frequencies (more about it later).
Unboxing and accessories.
For those familiar with other previously mentioned KZ models, the cable design is not going to be a surprise. You are looking at the same right-angle 3.5mm gold plated plug with an excellent strain relief. Cable jacket has a translucent design where you can easily see bi-color wires, and it's soft, a bit rubbery, and flexible. Y-splitter is compact, rubbery, and has great strain relief on all 3 sides. Featured in-line universal remote with mic and a single button play/pause/call operation was slightly different from previous models, having a bright red button to see it easier, and it also has a good strain relief.
Attachment to the shell is secure and with a good strain relief as well. Considering how KZ sometime likes to "copy" some other popular designs, here I couldn't help but notice a strong resemblance with Ostry KC06x series. Obviously, we are not dealing with a titanium shell, but the finish and even the shape from the nozzle side has a lot of resemblance to Ostrys. The insertion is not too deep, shells don't stick out too much, and they are very comfortable with both wire down or wire up fitment, even to the point where I can fall asleep on a pillow while wearing these. Also, microphonics effect was not that bad.
With two vents, one by the base of the nozzle and another one toward the back of the shell, you will not have to worry about driver flex, but at the same time isolation was not bad either. I don't know exactly what material it was made out of, but I really like the smooth finish of ED10. My only gripe was cursive handwriting font used on each shell to spell out Left and Right instead of a more clear and easier to read L/R letter marking. Other than that, I really like the design and the fitment.
Design details.
Wire up/down fitment.
When it comes to a sound signature, KZ ED10 has a v-shaped smooth clear sound with an enhanced bass (strong sub-bass and mid-bass region). Their soundstage has an average width and above average depth.
In more details, low end has a nice deep rounded sub-bass and fast punchy mid-bass. The balance between sub- and mid- is skewed a little more toward sub-bass, but it's still under control without muddying a sound. There is a little bit of mid-bass spillage into the lower mids but it's not excessive and only adds to the warmth of a sound.
Lower mids are warm and smooth with a nice body, upper mids are clear and smooth, but not super detailed. Upper mids are a little recessed, but not hidden too far behind bass and treble. Vocals sound warm and organic.
Treble has a polite quantity, smooth, not too crisp or harsh, definitely non-fatigue and great for extended listening.
Keeping it in a family, here is how EDSE, ED9, and ATE compare in sound to ED10.
KZ ED10 vs ATE: ATE has nearly a similar sound minus bass-boost (less sub-bass and not as fast mid-bass punch). At the same time, ED10 is a touch brighter in upper mids/treble which slightly improves resolution of a sound.
KZ ED10 vs ED9: ED9 has less sub-bass, less mid-bass, thinner lower mids, brighter more detailed upper mids, and a better treble extension. In a contrast, ED10 is warmer, smoother, has more body, and sounds bassier, while ED9 is more revealing.
KZ ED10 vs EDSE: EDSE has less sub-bass and mid-bass, a bit thinner lower mids, and thinner upper mids, better treble extension, and also sounds more crispier/brighter.
In comparison to a few other IEMs:
KZ ED10 vs KC06A: KC06A has less sub-bass, stronger mid-bass (slightly more quantity), thinner lower mids, more upfront upper mids (brighter and perhaps a little harsher), better treble extension (brighter, crispier).
KZ ED10 vs VSD3: VSD3 has a little less sub-bass, similar mid-bass, similar lower mids, brighter/harsher more upfront upper mids, better treble extension with a higher quantity (brighter, crispier).
Conclusion.
This is another great KZ "budget" release which doesn't sound, look, or feel like a budget IEM. You will get a bigger low end impact, in both sub- and mid-bass regions, and that's probably going to be a deciding factor if this sound signature is your cup of tea, versus something more neutral and analytical. Considering the price of these KZ headphones, sometime it makes sense to get different models to cover your various sound sig preferences, and then decide later what you are in a mood for or what would fit better your current listening repertoire.

Do you happen to have a Dunu Dn1000 or even listened to it? May I know your comparison?

ej8989 said:
Do you happen to have a Dunu Dn1000 or even listened to it? May I know your comparison?
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Don't have DN1k, but I do have DN2kJ - their latest 3-way hybrid I'm reviewing right now Expect the review soon!

nice reviews!
In terms of noise isolation: KZ ED9 vs EDSE vs ATE vs Mi Piston 3? Need to use them in a noisy environment (bus)
mostly listen to electronic music: Trance, Techno, house, Jazz.. mostly electronic, but not boomin bass EDM/commercial stuff.
Recommend please?

Techguy18 said:
nice reviews!
In terms of noise isolation: KZ ED9 vs EDSE vs ATE vs Mi Piston 3? Need to use them in a noisy environment (bus)
mostly listen to electronic music: Trance, Techno, house, Jazz.. mostly electronic, but not boomin bass EDM/commercial stuff.
Recommend please?
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With these IEMs isolation will depend strongly on eartip selection to make the best seal, like using foam tips. ED9 is heavy, hangs down so seal won't be as good, the same with EDSE barrel style. Your best bet is between ATE and P3, though if you don't want too much bass go with a smoother and more balanced P3.

vectron said:
With these IEMs isolation will depend strongly on eartip selection to make the best seal, like using foam tips. ED9 is heavy, hangs down so seal won't be as good, the same with EDSE barrel style. Your best bet is between ATE and P3, though if you don't want too much bass go with a smoother and more balanced P3.
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When it comes to sound quality, are Piston 3 at par with the ED9/ATE ? Piston 3 fit better right?

Techguy18 said:
When it comes to sound quality, are Piston 3 at par with the ED9/ATE ? Piston 3 fit better right?
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We all got different ears, so fitment will vary. That's why I include with all of my reviews a picture of me wearing a pair, so you can get some point of reference. But P3 will be more comfortable. Sound quality is very subjective as well. They all sound good for their price, just different sound signature. P3 is more relaxed, not too aggressive, and should work with any music style.

Review of the latest Knowledge Zenith (KZ) ZN1, ZS1, HDS1, and ED3c IEMs w/pics!!!

This is a Review of KZ ZS1, ZN1, HDS1, and ED3c IEMs.
It has been awhile since my last review of ED9, ED10, and ATE, two budget IEMs from KZ which I still hold in high regard. One admirable thing about Knowledge Zenith (KZ), they never sit still and continuously push the envelope of budget pricing and new cool designs. That’s what you are going to find with their new HDS1 and ED3c additions to IEM catalog. But at the same time, they stepped outside of their typical $10 comfort zone with two new offerings, ZN1 and ZS1. Let’s take a closer look at what I have found.
ZN1 (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0140WAP5S/?tag=vectron00-20)
Referred to as Smart Headset, ZN1 has a dual dynamic driver (8mm for bass/mids and 6.8mm for treble) with two independent sound chambers combined at the nozzle and a smart control unit with dual TI amplifiers. The control/amp unit requires to be charged (through micro-usb connector), with a battery lasting up to 10hrs, and it has an independent digital volume control +/- buttons, bass adjustment +/- buttons, and treble adjustment +/- buttons. While being adjusted, these parameters are displayed with corresponding values on a small high contrast OLED display. Furthermore, you also have a multifunction button to pick up and to answer the calls, and a separate Power button.
The control unit is a bit bulky and adds some weight to the cable while serving as “y-splitter”. Also, the cable from the control unit to 3.5mm gold plated angled connector is thick, and L/R cables going to earpieces are also on a thicker side. Earpieces are big enough to house two dynamic drivers, have a plastic housing, and a durable build that can withstand some abuse. They have a clear L/R marking, multi-venting for expanded open sound, and a short strain relief which is not a problem due to a thickness of the cable/shielding attached to earpieces.
In terms of a fitment, earpieces themselves are very comfortable and fit secure with a wire over the ear. But the added weight of control/amp unit and thick cable is not very comfortable to walk around with. Another thing, I was able to pair it up without a problem with my smartphones and tablets, but to work with DAPs you need TRRS to TRS adapter. With a smartphone it works in a powered and a passive modes, while with DAPs it only works in a powered mode and with an adapter. In my opinion ZN1 strength is NOT in a portable use, but rather to use with your smartphone or tablet for a portable entertainment, such as watching movies, videos, and playing games.
ZN1 gives you a full theatrical experience of an open/surround amplified detailed sound where you can adjust the depth and the impact of the bass and increase or reduce the definition and sparkle of the treble. Sure, you can also listen and enjoy your music while you are relaxing in the chair or on a couch, but walking around – I wouldn’t recommend. And if you run out of battery, you can still enjoy the sound in a passive mode, though without volume/bass/treble adjustment. In summary, I found it to be not as useful with my DAPs, but very useful with my Smartphone and Tablet.
Pictures.
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ZS1 (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B017I75XOU/?tag=vectron00-20)
While testing ZN1, I was happy how it paired up with my smartphone, but wasn’t able to enjoy it to a full potential with my DAPs. It was a bit frustrating to the point where I was ready to “convert” ZN1 into a passive wired IEMs, but I'm glad that I didn’t. I’m sure KZ received a lot of feedback from their users, and decided to answer with ZS1 version which is basically a passive wired ZN1 without control/amp unit.
Just like ZN1, ZS1 features a dual 8mm and 6.8mm dynamic drivers with a nearly identical plastic shell and open vents, and the same L/R clear marking. Cable is thinner, closer to a more traditional KZ wires with their typical 90deg headphone plug, rubbery shielding, small y-splitter with a nice strain relief on each end, and in-line remote/mic going to the right earpiece for smartphone control. Everything was good until you get closer to earpieces where you have a rather long and stiff memory wire. I guess KZ decided not to use memory wire with ZN1 because wires stayed put behind your ears under the weight of control/amp unit, while not the same case with ZS1 – but they made it too long and stiff. Again, this is not a show stopper that going to affect a comfort of wearing ZS1, but I would have preferred a shorter memory wire and without a plastic termination bead at the end. Every time I take them off for storage and put them back on, I have to go through re-shaping of the memory wire which becomes a bit annoying.
With a design and a fitment out of the way, the next stop was a sound test. I was pleased to see that ZS1 had no issues working with any of my DAPs in addition to smartphone and tablet, but as soon as I start playing the music, my ears got blasted with a serious BASS cannons!!! I have no idea why KZ decided to tune ZS1 to a basshead extreme. We are talking about L-shaped sound signature with an overwhelming bass slam. Low end is deep and extended, from a thick thumping sub-bass to a boomy elevated mid-bass - both dominating the sound. But surprisingly, even with such massive impact, there was still room for a quality mids, though pushed all the way back in quantity. Lower mids have a full smooth body and upper mids have a nice clarity with smooth details. Even treble has a nice definition, though not as much airiness or brightness. Also, soundstage was pretty good, though with more depth than width.
Not wanting to give up, I started to tweak EQ and discovered that ZS1 has A LOT of potentials and can be transformed into a decent pair of headphones when you cut 6dB around 30Hz and 3dB around 60Hz. As soon as you trim that low end thumping and booming, you make a room for mids and treble to come up, resulting in a more balanced and smooth detailed sound. This EQ cut easily transforms ZS1 into a solid pair of great sounding headphones with a more ear-friendly tuning and a balanced organic detailed sound. Typically, I’m not a fan of using EQ, but sometime I can make an exception and SZ1 was it. But moving forward, I wish KZ would retune their sound signature to cut down on bass and to shorten the memory wire.
Pictures.
HDS1 (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B017NIQQSG/?tag=vectron00-20)
With HDS1, KZ went back to their traditional “formula” of small lightweight single dynamic driver design (this one has a small 6mm driver). It was nice to see all these bright fresh colors, instead of a traditional black or silver, and the build quality was solid metal. The shells have a clear L/R marking, short but sturdy strain relief, typical KZ thin cable with a rubbery/sticky shielding. Y-splitter was nice and small, but surprisingly it didn’t have any strain relief at the ends which I prefer to have. The headphones connector was their traditional right-angle gold-plated plug. The fitment worked both ways, wired up and wire down.
There was also in-line remote w/mic on the right side of the cable, but it was very cheap and plastic. I wish they would have used a sturdier metal capsule because if you crack this in-line remote – you expose the wire connection (speaking from a personal experience of another headphone pair that went straight to garbage). I also sensed some cable microphonics. Last, but not least, sound isolation is poor due to 3 large vents on the back of the shell – great for an open airy sound, but not good if you’re looking for a passive noise isolation.
When it comes to a sound analysis, HDS1 offers a nicely tuned mid-centric signature with a focus on mids clarity and resolution - great for vocals! A found very little sub-bass, nearly rolled off, and mid-bass had a neutral fast tight punch. Lower mids are lean, missing warmth of full body, while upper mids are the focus of the tuning - clear and detailed, and at the same time not a hint of harshness or graininess. Treble is extended, bright, crisp, well defined and not sibilant at all. The sound is mid-centric and airy, but at the same time missing some organic warmth and natural body. Instead, you will get a detailed resolving vocals, neutral quality low end, nice treble sparkle, and overall non-fatigue extended listening experience. Soundstage has a great width, an average depth, and slightly below average height.
Pictures.
ED3c (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0174WO2LY/?tag=vectron00-20)
ED3c is another step closer to a traditional KZ design and sound, and also under $10. Here you will find a solid build quality, all metal lightweight shell in different bright colors (looking like the color was baked in), and a nice strain relief around the shell. KZ decided to do something more original by using handwriting font to spell the Left/Right which looks classy, but also hard to read, so I was using in-line remote on the Right side as my indicator since shells are symmetrical. The cable has typical KZ multi-color wires with rubbery shielding, small rubbery y-slitter with strain relief on each end, and a traditional 90-degree gold plated headphone connector. Microphonics was just average, and sound isolation was not bad at all if you use the correct size eartip and considering a small pinhole air-vent next to the cable attached to the shell.
I found ED3c to have L-shaped signature with a nice low end extension and a strong bass impact. Sub-bass has a nice heft, adding an underlying weight to support fast mid-bass punch. Bass itself is not very articulate or super tight, but has an Ok control and strong impact which tilts the sound toward the low end. Lower mids are warm and full but not muddy, upper mids are clear smooth but not very detailed. Actually, mids sound a bit artificial, especially vocals. Treble is clear, a little rolled off, smooth and non-sibilant. Though I hear overall sound to be more L-shaped than V-shaped due to a treble roll-off, I still wouldn't consider these to be basshead headphones. Soundstage was also nice with slightly above the average width/depth/height.
Pictures.

Thank you for you reviews Mr. Vectron;
I purchased the ZS1, ED9, ED11, and ATE S after I read your previous review on the ED9 and ATE models.
I am not an audiophile, but consider those KZ IEMs to be a great purchase.

I ordered HDS1 from here: LINK
I just wanna make sure if it has a built-in mic, because the site says it has none.

Great review!
I own the ED10's but I broke them a week ago. Would you consider the new HDS1's or the ED3c's an improvement or should I go with the ED10 again (really liked those).

Sander9847 said:
Great review!
I own the ED10's but I broke them a week ago. Would you consider the new HDS1's or the ED3c's an improvement or should I go with the ED10 again (really liked those).
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Why not get both? They are so cheap, and offer different enough sound signature so you can switch depending on your mood or songs you are listening to You are already know how ED10 sounds, try other KZ flavors.

vectron said:
Why not get both? They are so cheap, and offer different enough sound signature so you can switch depending on your mood or songs you are listening to You are already know how ED10 sounds, try other KZ flavors.
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Ok thanks, will do!