Budget IEM (Chit Chat)

BlackWing1977

BlackWing1977

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Deathzz said:
Using the new USB c dac dongle jcally jm98 max. Not bad. Shopee buy 40bucks with 25% voucher at only 30bucks. Still can have 3 eq mode. Can drive big headphones easily. Using ciem only need like 20% of volume to be loud liao
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I think I saw this model but did not choose it... I went for JM80E.... because the FiiO KA13 I have already using Cirrus logic DAC.. so I want to try a different DAC... while the SXFI AMP I have is using AKM DAC I think..
 
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tuckloong

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huihong said:
Any lao jiao have recommendation for S$300 IEM? use with DAC dongle for iphone Spotify listening. never had any IEM before.

Currently i gotch Airpod Pro 3 and Audio Technica ATH-R70xa, listen to many diff genres of music, rock, 80s, city-pop, jazz, instrumental, metal.

Me like neutral sounding audio with a tiny kick of bass.

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Since u are used to the RX70xa type of tuning....perhaps u wanna try the Crinacle Diablo?

Can go to their shop to listen and compare with their Divine, Meta and Daybreak too :)





 
BlackWing1977

BlackWing1977

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BlackWing1977

BlackWing1977

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quby-quby-sticker.gif

AI Overview

The KZ Zenith offers detailed, slightly darker sound with forward mids, while the GK Kunten is a budget V-shaped gem with huge sub-bass and a wide stage; the KZ ZVX Pro sits between, delivering faster bass, excellent imaging, and clarity, making it a great all-rounder with a bit less treble harshness than some, but the Kunten wins for pure fun and value if you can sacrifice some detail for rumble and space
.
Here's a breakdown:
GK Kunten (Ultra-Budget King)
  • Sound: Fun, V-shaped, excellent sub-bass rumble, wide soundstage.
  • Pros: Incredible value, energetic, immersive, great for bass lovers.
  • Cons: Less detailed than Zenith.
  • Best For: Budget listeners who want impactful fun and a spacious feel.
KZ Zenith (Technical Upgrade)
  • Sound: Darker, warm tuning, forward mids (can get nasal), tighter bass, great detail retrieval.
  • Pros: Technically superior to Kunten, great detail, good for many genres, tunable.
  • Cons: Narrower stage than Kunten, less "fun" bass.
  • Best For: Those wanting more detail and a mature sound, willing to pay more than Kunten.
KZ ZVX Pro (The Balanced Surprise)
  • Sound: Energetic, fast bass, excellent imaging and resolution, good treble clarity.
  • Pros: Surprising clarity, good soundstage, balanced yet robust sound, better imaging than many.
  • Cons: Some find it slightly harsh, but generally a pleasant surprise.
  • Best For: Listeners wanting a balanced, clear sound with great imaging and dynamics.
Which to Choose?
  • For Value & Fun: GK Kunten.
  • For Detail & Versatility: KZ Zenith.
  • For Imaging & Clarity (Budget): KZ ZVX Pro.
 
BlackWing1977

BlackWing1977

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SkyScraper said:
omg suay i bought velet delvinus tips. 4 out 5 in the packaging missing one. this tips not cheap TT.TT. messaged seller already
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Months after I received my Vader.. then I discover my KZ ear tips got odd number.. like 3 smalls 1 medium and 2 large... lucky I use large most of the time.
 
BlackWing1977

BlackWing1977

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Comparing the Creative Outlier Air V3 and KZ AN01 + ZS10 Pro.... really big difference in sound quality... and I think both end up around the same price, I just checked I bought the Creative TWS around $57 in 2022, and my ZS10 Pro was from Amazon during discount around $20++ and this AN01 is around $35. AN01 and ZS10 Pro offers much better sound quality.



AI Overview



The choice between the
KZ AN01 with ZS10 Pro and the Creative Outlier Air V3 depends entirely on whether you prioritize the convenience and integrated features of true wireless earbuds or the superior sound quality and flexibility of a wired IEM setup.

Comparison Overview

Feature KZ AN01 + ZS10 Pro (Modular TWS setup)Creative Outlier Air V3 (True Wireless Stereo)
ConnectivityWireless (via AN01 adapter) or Wired (direct cable)True Wireless (Bluetooth 5.2)
Sound QualityGenerally superior, more detailed, and customizable as a dedicated IEM systemVery good for TWS, but a dedicated IEM often provides better fidelity and soundstage
ANC/TransparencyAN01 adapter offers Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency Mode, though effectiveness on some IEMs can be limitedFeatures Active Noise Reduction and Ambient Mode, which are effective for the price point
MicrophoneFour-microphone call noise reduction (via AN01)Quad mics for good call quality
Battery LifeUp to 40 hours total (8 hours per charge)Up to 40 hours total (10 hours per charge)
Durability/IP RatingZS10 Pro is durable with a replaceable cable; AN01 earhooks are sweat-resistant (rating unknown)IPX5 sweat- and water-resistant finish
Controls/AppNo app, no volume controls on AN01 adapterTouch controls, customizable via the Creative app, includes an equalizer
Audio CodecsLDAC, AAC, SBC (via AN01)SBC, AAC

Key Considerations
  • Wired vs. Wireless Flexibility: The KZ setup gives you the unique flexibility to use the ZS10 Pro as a high-fidelity wired IEM or convert it to a true wireless experience using the AN01 earhook adapters. The Creative Outlier Air V3 is a self-contained TWS unit only.
  • Audio Performance: The KZ ZS10 Pro is a highly regarded entry-level IEM known for its detailed sound quality and multi-driver system (hybrid drivers). The Outlier Air V3, while sounding good for a TWS, uses a smaller 6mm dynamic driver and generally offers a more consumer-friendly, "warmish, uplifting" sound profile with less raw detail retrieval compared to a good wired IEM.
  • Features and Convenience: The Outlier Air V3 offers integrated, out-of-the-box features like a functional ANC (active noise reduction), ambient mode, and app support with EQ adjustments that the modular KZ setup struggles to match in seamlessness. The KZ AN01's ANC is reportedly not very effective, and it lacks volume control on the unit itself.
  • Use Case: The Creative is better suited for an active lifestyle, exercise (IPX5 rating), or general daily commuting where the convenience of TWS and some noise reduction is paramount. The KZ combination is better for dedicated, critical music listening where sound quality and the option for a wired connection matter most.
 
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