KZ, a brand mostly known for its budget-friendly earphones, has stepped into uncharted territory with the KZ Sonata, packing 28 (technically 14) balanced armature drivers into a single shell. It’s a daring approach, but does it pay off? Let’s find out.
Specifications
• Model: KZ Sonata
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 40kHz
• Impedance:
• Standard: 22Ω
• Tuning Version: 22Ω – 50Ω
• Sensitivity:
• Standard: 113dB
• Tuning Version: 110dB
• Plug Type: 3.5mm
• Pin Type: 0.75mm
• Cable Length: 120±5cm
Driver Breakdown
• Ultra-High Frequencies: 10 x 31736 drivers for rich high-frequency details.
• Mid-High Frequencies: 1 x 30019 driver for smooth, crystal-clear vocals.
• Low Frequencies: 1 x 22955 driver for deep, distortion-free bass.
• Mid Frequencies: 2 x 29689 drivers for warm mids and natural instrument reproduction.
First Listen: Dark with a Musical Soul
I started testing the Sonata with the stock black ear tips. Right away, the tuning felt cold, forward, and dark, but not overly clinical. Vocals came through clear, and the soundstage offered an unexpectedly wide sense of space. However, the overall sound leaned more toward musicality than raw technicality.
This dark tonality seemed well-suited for electronic rock and similar genres, where the atmosphere and effects play a big role. However, brighter genres might feel a little lifeless, with keyboards and high frequencies sounding crispy but lacking vibrancy.
Track Analysis
1. Shaka Ponk – Let’s Bang
This live recording highlighted the Sonata’s ability to create depth and a sense of space. Despite the post-hardcore genre, the sound felt relaxing, almost as if the venue’s atmosphere invited me to linger. Instruments like percussion were present but required more focus to distinguish clearly.
2. The Raconteurs – Consoler of the Lonely
The Sonata showcased warmth and fullness in tracks featuring organic instruments. With tambourines and layered arrangements, the performance felt satisfying. The vocals and instruments were well-defined, and the imaging was impressive, making it easy to place elements in the soundstage.
3. Hans Zimmer – Circle of Life
Here, the Sonata placed me far from the stage, giving the track a symphonic grandeur. However, the upper treble could be a touch overwhelming for sensitive listeners, not due to harshness but the sheer abundance of detail. While the dynamics toward the end were vibrant, they lacked the energy needed to feel truly alive.
4. Riverside – Addicted
The bass guitar was a highlight here—full-bodied and satisfying. Vocals, while clear, felt a little too smooth at times. Drums lacked the impact I was hoping for, leaving the track slightly unbalanced. Despite this, the Sonata’s darker character suited the track’s melancholy tone.
5. Lebowski – Mirage Avenue
This track felt like it was made for the Sonata. The earphones captured the atmosphere beautifully, and the 3D applause at the end gave a clear sense of room dimensions. While the clapping sounded slightly dull, the spatial resonance added a layer of realism that was hard to ignore.
Eartip Swap: The Turning Point
When I switched to the angled tips included in the box, the sound transformed dramatically. The previously dark and somewhat restrained presentation came alive with newfound energy. Clarity improved across the board, bass gained a punchy, tactile quality, and the treble became more precise without being overwhelming.
Instrument separation became noticeably better, and the 3D imaging felt even more convincing. It was as though the Sonata had finally hit its stride, turning an average performance into something memorable.
Pros and Cons
Pros
• Wide and immersive soundstage
• Clean, well-defined vocals
• Weighty bass with good depth
• Works exceptionally well with darker, atmospheric genres
• Significant improvement with the right ear tips
Cons
• Upper treble can be fatiguing for sensitive listeners
• Stock tips limit the overall performance
• Drums and percussion lack impact in some tracks
• Can sound lifeless with brighter or highly energetic genres
KZ Sonata Review Conclusions
The KZ Sonata is an intriguing step forward for a brand that’s not afraid to experiment. Its wide soundstage, 3D imaging, and dark tonality make it a compelling choice for listeners who favor atmospheric and moody genres. However, it’s not without its flaws—some tracks feel thin or overly dark, and the stock ear tips hold it back from its full potential.
For those willing to put in a bit of effort with tip rolling and prefer a darker tuning, the Sonata offers a unique and enjoyable experience. It’s not a universal solution, but for the right listener, it could be a standout in KZ’s lineup.
Verdict: A bold and promising experiment from KZ, though not without its quirks. Perfect for fans of atmospheric music who value a wide, immersive sound.