KZ Zenith Review 

Intro 

Hello everyone, this review and feature covers the latest from KZ Audio named the KZ Zenith. The Zenith is a single dynamic driver earphone equipped with some special upgrades from previous dynamic drivers within the KZ lineup. I’ll of course explain those as I go along within this review. I’d say that KZ puts a pretty high level of importance on the Zenith as it quite literally is their namesake. Of course, “Zenith” is derived from the full name of KZ, that’s… “Knowledge Zenith”. Not everyone knows that. I can tell you right now after speaking with some folks from KZ that the Zenith represents a more premium product in which much R&D and expertise went into the crafting of this set. From the beautifull all metal build, to their brand new “Driver-X” which is a new ultra-linear dynamic driver, the Zenith is set to take on some of the best from its price point. KZ’s website has the Zenith’s MSRP set at $99 but the initial sale is asking for a low $55. In fact, there are a few different prices depending on the website. For now, kz-audio.com has the cheapest ($55) which I’m sure is an initial sales price. I will treat this set like a $99 iem and compare it that way as well. I am in the middle of burn-in at the moment and haven’t spent enough time to report if the Zenith can take on the best. However, I can assure you that I am going to really dive deep into this one. 

Knowledge Zenith 

KZ and their sub-brand CCA have been hitting the market like a fully automatic machine gun as they bring to market more sets than any brand, just about every year. That said, I can’t sit here and say that I haven’t been impressed with their releases the last few years. Especially this last year. In fact, they started out the new year with one of the best all-BA iems under $200 in the KZ Sonata (Sonata Review). Truly a special iem and certainly KZ’s most flagship offering to date. Beyond that, within the last year KZ just kept getting better, as they do. From the ultra-budget range on up past the $100 barrier KZ has been nailing their tunings of late. Folks, KZ was the first iems that brought me into this hobby years ago. I was hooked from the jump. From then on it was me doing everything in my power to hear my music with the best fidelity possible. KZ is a huge reason that I’m even writing reviews today. I think that many of us have similar stories. The great thing is that all KZ has ever done was improve. I have complete confidence that this trend will continue. 

Something new … 

With that said, I have a sneaky suspicion that KZ has begun moving in a different direction with their tunings. I’ve noticed a tilt towards the mature, better drivers, better materials, and a more balanced approach. I’m not the only one though. Others on Facebook, Reddit threads etc. have also noticed a shift. How many KZ sets “outside” of the ultra-budget class of iems are straight up V-shaped bangers anymore? Folks, KZ has turned a corner, which is great for the community and the consumer. Granted, they always had nicely tuned sets in the past but with some of their later iems KZ seems to be taking a different approach. With all of KZ’s resources and expertise at their disposal along with the fact that they operate their own factory where they make their products from top to bottom. What happens when a brand like that decides they’re going to begin tuning their products in a much more polished, refined, and seasoned manner? This is not to say that KZ hasn’t been upgrading their tunings, drivers, designs for years now. In fact, that’s kind of their MO. Upgrade, upgrade, upgrade. Every new release is an incremental improvement over the last. However, these last couple sets seemed to have sparked something new. I don’t want to go any further with any of this, but I like what I’m seeing, and… hearing. 

Competition 

I suppose the only other real issue standing in the way for the Zenith happens to be the same issue for every iem in every price segment. That is… “competition”. Every other week a new promising iem hits the market in every price bracket and each one seems to be the new top class set. At least, that’s how it seems at times. This is the major problem for every iem. However, it is a very good thing for us, the consumer. Competition has effectively upped the ante, so to speak. Thus, we are seeing some of the best price to performance iems in quite some time. Especially under $100. In my opinion, the under $100 price range is the hottest range in all of audio. I’d say anywhere from $50 to $100. I don’t have enough fingers to count all of the iems which could be considered the best within the class. The truth is competition has sparked better products. Coincidentally, the audio community is very diverse. Basically, there’s something for everyone. So, I suppose it isn’t about what is best. In fact, is there a “best”? For such a subjective question I’m leaning on “probably not” as my answer. The only “best” set is the one which is “best” for you and your own unique preferences. Hopefully this review, as well as a hundred other opinions on different iems will help you narrow down your search. That said, no doubt the Zenith has a lot of sets to contend against. I’m excited to see where it stands. With that, I think I’m ready to get into this review folks. So, without further ado, the KZ Zenith everyone… 

Non-Affiliated Purchasing Links:

–Aliexpress

–KZ-audio.com 

–Amazon

Disclaimer:

I received the KZ Zenith from KZ Audio as a review sample and in exchange I will conduct a full review and feature at Mobileaudiophile.com. I have not received any payment or any other form of compensation for this review. This set is a review sample iem. KZ Audio has not requested to pre-read any review and doesn’t have any control over “what” or “when” anything gets published to mobileaudiophile.com. All thoughts within this review are my own, though please take note that I will always have my own biases. This is impossible to get around. I try to be as objective as my subjective self can be, but this is an opinion piece folks. Thank you to KZ Audio, and thanks for reading.

Zenith Pros

-Build Quality is phenomenal

-Design and aesthetic are very unique, really an awesome looking set.

-Very nicely balanced U-shaped sound

-Clean, punchy, well defined and textured bass region

-Midrange is nicely detailed with a very pristine note definition

Treble is non-offensive yet very resolving, nice extension

-Imaging

-Detail Retrieval for an under $100 single DD

-Nice spatiality, with a layered and well-proportioned soundstage

Zenith Cons

-May be too heavy, bulky for some folks

-Cable does not do the Zenith justice

-Bassheads will not enjoy this set

Gear used for testing

–Ifi Go Blu 

–EPZ TP50 

–EPZ TP35

–Aful SnowyNight

–Shanling H0 

–Fiio Q15 

–Hiby R4

–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2 

–Shanling M6 Ultra

Packaging / Accessories 

Unboxing 

The KZ Zenith arrived at my door in a larger box than I’m used to seeing. KZ has certain packaging which obviously applies to their more premium line of iems. The Zenith most certainly falls into that category. It’s a larger than usual black box with a graphic of the Zenith on the front sleeve as well as some specs on the back. Take off the sleeve and you are met with an all-black box. Open the box and you’ll see the awesome looking Zenith staring back at you while nestled tightly in some cut-outs. Next to the Zenith you’ll see a cardboard box which contains the carrying case. Inside the carrying case you’ll find the cable as well as the dip-switch tool. Also next to the earphones you’ll see the eartips holder which is a very nice touch. Altogether the package and its contents are very nice for the cost. I like what KZ did here. Certainly, a better unboxing than we’ve historically seen from KZ. Of course, the Sonata came in a similar package with a similar layout as well. Not bad at all. 

Eartips

KZ provided a total of six eartips within the packaging of the Zenith. To be exact, that’s three pairs (S, M, L) of slow-rise foam tips. Now, I really don’t enjoy foam tips. Never have. I know some of you adore them, but they’ve never been for me. I suppose I use them when I absolutely have to and no doubt there’s plenty of situations which call for foamies. However, they aren’t usually my bag. Though I will say, KZ’s slow-rise foam tips are actually very good additions to a collection. They seal great and they really do form to the inner ear perfectly. Next, KZ added in three pairs (S, M, L) of KZ’s own KZ Starline eartips. These tips are named after the Star pattern at the opening. They are black silicone eartips with a narrow bore and usually will add some meat to the low-end as well as sand down the peaks in the treble. Of course, this isn’t always the case. At any rate, the Starlines are truly awesome tips to have laying around. No doubt about it there will come a day when the Starlines come in super handy. That said, I didn’t use either of the included tips. I actually decided upon my personal favorite cheap eartips, the KBear 07 tips. Without question the 07’s helped the Zenith rather than hurt them and the fit I get is wonderful. Obviously, you and I are probably fairly different in our ear anatomy, but it does pay to at least try other tips with the Zenith. 

Carrying Case

Another nice addition into the overall packaging is the carrying case. This is a case that we’ve seen a few other times from KZ or from some of KZ’s sister brands, like Joyodio. So, the case is a nice deep indigo blue and made of a faux leather material. Very sturdy and certainly what I’d consider a hard case. This case also has a nice silver zipper which poses as a nice color contrast. It’s just a nice-looking case. Large enough to fit the Zenith, the cable, some extra tips and maybe (if you’re good) you can fit a very small dongle dac. Something like the EPZ TP35, for example. At any rate, nice case, zipper works, looks cool, not bad at all. 

Cable

The cable provided is what you get with 99% of KZ iems. That is the same QDC style, 2-pin, SPC (silver-plated-copper) cable which comes in a white colorway. You can purchase the Zenith with, or without, the microphone and one button controller. The mic gives you the ability to play/pause, skip tracks, answer/hang-up calls, etc. The included cable does its job perfectly fine and really, I’ve never had any true complaints about it. However, I did swap the Zenith cable with the Nicehck IcyMoon 4.4 balanced cable. I couldn’t resist. The Zenith seems to scale well with adequate power and so a balanced cable is a good way to get that power with my sources. Also, you have this really handsome set of earphones, and it just compels me to put a handsome cable on it. That fat white and perfectly pliable IcyMoon cable is outstanding for this set. Not to mention the sonics when the Zenith is on the IcyMoon. There’s a few other budget “under $40” cables which really sound and look good with the Zenith, but for me the IcyMoon just hits that sweet spot both aesthetically and sonically with the Zenith. However, I also really enjoyed the Artti balanced cable (you’ll see some pics with it) with the Zenith, but it was the IcyMoon which stood out the most. So, there’s certainly options. However, please understand that for the simple purpose of listening to your music, the included cable is perfectly fine and serves its purpose perfectly. You definitely don’t “need” to swap cables. I am at least a marginal cable snob, so please don’t feel you have to follow my lead. 

Build / Design / Internals / Fit 

Build Quality 

As far as the build “quality” is concerned, folks, I don’t think you can get a better build at this cost. Most certainly KZ maximized what they could create. Friends, the Zenith is 100% all-metal on the shells, faceplate, and through the nozzles. Truly, the Zenith is actually built like a tank. The Zenith weighs right around 12.5 grams which is actually lighter than I thought. Still, the weight is more than most iems. No where near the heaviest, but substantial. I only say that for full disclosure because you may be the type who doesn’t enjoy heavier iems. Also, the Zenith is not a small set of earphones. The weight is substantial, and the size is above average for a single DD in my estimation. That said, it’s built wonderfully. Again, metal everywhere. The nozzles are about medium length, not too long, not too short either and they measure about 5.8mm in width. So pretty much standard size. You’ll also notice the four dip-switch panel on the rear side of the Zenith. I would think that the switches take up some room making the Zenith a hair larger as well. However, I feel that KZ did a very nice job on the build. It’s very clean and screams “premium” when in the hand. 

Design

Now we get to the design and aesthetic of the KZ Zenith. In my humble opinion I feel that KZ did a very solid job on the design. The first thing which stands out are the faceplates. They are an easy focal point. You have this metal webbed design made of metal which consists of abutting triangles cut-out and ajoined which makes for a very nice pattern. Very cool looking. Truly an awesome design folks and about as premium as a design can get for the cost. Now, KZ states that the faceplate is actually open using a metal mesh under the faceplate. This helps to provide a more open sound with proper airflow. There is also some very small writing which lines the edge of the faceplate saying, “New Tech * Zenith”. Very small white lettering. Another cool feature of the faceplates is the large brass colored screw which I don’t think is only decorative though I haven’t tested that theory. Once again, the Zenith has QDC style male connectors at the top of the Shells too. Truly a great design. I give it an easy two thumbs up. 

Internals 

KZ employed their brand new (made in-house) driver inside of the Zenith named “Driver-X”. Driver-X is a newly devised ultra-linear driver and clearly it is a high-quality driver. In fact, I feel that the driver is one of the components which makes the most difference in sound. Coupled with the rest of the structural acoustic cavity design used in the Zenith. KZ also increased the size of their voice coil up to 7mm from the traditional 5mm that we always see. In addition, KZ used larger magnets of increased size as well as an ultra-narrow diaphragm suspension which is said to dramatically decrease sound distortions. Of course, you also have the dip-switch panel as well. So, there is a lot of new tech happening here and it all goes into the end result. That is, better sound. I’m telling you all right now, this driver is a very good one. I’d love to hear it in other situations, but I do think that KZ maximized its output in the Zenith to the target they were going for. Very nice. 

Tuning-Switches

Like I said earlier, the KZ Zenith comes with a total of four dip-switches or tuning switches, whatever you want to call them. For review purposes when a switch is flipped “on” it will be represented as “1”. When a switch is flipped “off” it will be represented as “0”. So, for example, if all four switches are on then for review purposes, I will call it “1111”. Naturally, if all switches are off then I will call it “0000”. Now KZ makes this set very easy to use and understand. I say that because all the switches generally do is control the bass region. To break it down, if you flip the 1st switch then you’ll add 1 db to the low-end. If the #1 and #2 switches are flipped on, then you’ll be adding 2 db’s. This also applies to the 3rd switch. Flipping it on will give you 3 db’s of emphasis afforded to the low-end. Now, if you flip the last switch on then it says it increases the entire spectrum. KZ calls it a “full-range boost”. They’ve added this in the past, but it makes the Zenith a bit more sensitive, among other things. 

Subtle changes

For the critical listening I did have the first three switches on and the fourth switch off (1110). I simply like this configuration the most as it fits my preferences a bit better at the moment. Again, the switches are ridiculously easy to use and understand and they make subtle differences (3db sub-bass lift) in your listening session which is nice. However, the difference is not nearly enough to change the overall sound signature and not enough to steal the balance that the Zenith has. Make sure to use the switch tool provided in the packaging to flip the switches. 

Fit / Comfort 

Like always, I include this ridiculous section. It makes no sense to tell you all how the Zenith fits me when you and I are likely not the same. However, I should add that the Zenith fits me very well. I got a solid seal once I found tips which fit me perfectly and the weight distribution is great on this set. Basically, once they are in the ear the Zenith feels great. So, comfort is good. Now, it is an all-metal shell and so colder environments just be aware that the Zenith will also get very cold. Just some things to think about. I think they fit great but I’m not you. 

Drivability 

Output Power 

The KZ Zenith is a very sensitive set. Well, it’s not hard to drive. It is rated with an impedance of roughly about 41 ohms and a sensitivity of around 128 db’s. Give or take. This means that the Zenith is a very sensitive set. To an extent that is. No more sensitive than most iems at this cost, but sensitive enough for a smartphone, nonetheless. I even tried out my iPad briefly and had zero issues along with some Android tablets. Again, no issues, good headroom in volume too. However, as I suspected the Zenith most certainly scales to the power and ability of a stronger and better source. Without question the Zenith seems to get better with more juice and oddly enough, when I pump up the volume a bit. I almost always used the 4.4 balanced IcyMoon cable during listening effectively providing more power from my sources. The difference is better layering (to a degree), separation, cleaner and more punchy bass, deeper bass, more sparkly highs too. Now, I don’t want to lead you astray because using a 3.5 single ended cable on a good dongle dac will most certainly suffice as well. I simply have so many 4.4 balanced sources that it’s kind of my go to. I adore this set on the Shanling H0, EPZ TP50, as well as the Aful SnowyNight. It really sounds great paired with those CS43198 dac chips, it seems. So rest assured at least with some good dongle dacs the Zenith sounds pretty awesome. However, medium gain on the iBasso DX240, Shanling M6 Ultra, Fiio Q15 and the Hiby R4 is where my listening really scaled. Particularly with the M6 Ultra. Really a wonderful pairing. 

Source pairing

As far as source pairing, I found that any brighter source attached to the Zenith wasn’t to my liking. I have some cooler/brighter ESS Sabre dac/amps which tend to make the sound a hair artificial. Now, I used neutral sources like the iBasso DX240, EPZ TP50, TP35, among others and the pairing was pretty great for me. However, personally I enjoy a source closer to warm/neutral. This is why the M6 Ultra worked out so well and seemed to bring out the best in the Zenith, to my ears. I don’t think the Zenith is very picky though. You don’t have any crazy peaks which can get exaggerated by source tonality or coloration. The Zenith is right around neutral to warm/neutral (depending on switch orientation) and so they pair fairly well with most sources. Like I said, anything which leans brighter really didn’t agree with me. However, that’s me. You may feel totally different. 

What do you need? 

If I were you, I’d try to get my hands on a decent Dongle Dac. Personally, I like to give the Zenith more power as I do feel it helps to bring the most out of this set. However, I also feel the Zenith will reward your listening if you use better sources. This is a quality set folks, with a quality tuning, quality drivers too, and so you can push it a little bit. I don’t hear any undue distortions at high volumes and the Zenith seems to only get better with better source devices. So, try to get a decent Dongle Dac if you can. That said, if you cannot then please don’t think the Zenith won’t sound perfectly fine out of a smartphone or similar device. 

Sound Impressions 

*Note: Before I get into the reason why everyone is here, I want to first inform you all that I certainly did give the Zenith plenty of burn-in. Anywhere from 60-70 hours. Best guess. This involves simply leaving it connected to my burn-in station for days on end. I honestly don’t feel this helped all that much, but also, it was days in between listening so take it all with a grain of salt. I always burn-in for reviews whether it helps or not. My critical listening switch settings were “1110”, for the most part. Also, I use flac or better files stored on my devices for all critical listening. Most of my devices have UAPP (USB Audio Player Pro) installed on them which is my preferred music player app. Of course, some dongles I use Hiby Music Player as well as Poweramp at times too. Beyond those things, I did use KBear 07 tips and cable swapped to the IcyMoon 4.4 balanced cable. 

How does it sound? 

The KZ Zenith has a nicely balanced tuning. Lately we’ve seen a more balanced and mature approach than previous years from KZ and it’s a very nice change of pace. I hear a mostly organic sound out of the Zenith, leaning natural. Also, I’d probably say that the Zenith has a U-shaped sound signature. Now, the bass is slightly emphasized, mids don’t sound recessed or distant and the treble has a smooth and semi brilliant emphasis of its own. What that correlates to is a solid dynamic balance, which is great to hear. However, couple that with very nice texture, spatial imaging, and even some layering of the sound field and what you get is a very well-tuned single dynamic driver earphone. I’d say the Zenith is smoother than it is crisp, but it’s not without crispness and adequate snap for certain instrumentation. There seems to be a very nice symmetry across the mix, or a symphonic parity with the Zenith. However, that’s just another way of telling you that there’s a balance. Furthermore, I hear no one frequency which really dominates the spectrum. There isn’t any one focal point to my ears. The focal point is the whole spectrum in melodic cohesion. A single dynamic driver portraying each area of the mix with very nice continuity, clean lines, natural transients, and with subtle contrasting dynamics to the sound which never magnify edginess, peakiness, sibilance or shout. This balance helps with imaging, detail retrieval, and note separation when paired with the Zenith’s solid driver control. Is the Zenith the best KZ single DD? Um… yes! 

A new philosophy? 

As far as tonal coloration goes, I find the Zenith to be anywhere from neutral to warm/neutral depending on your switch settings. The Zenith has a mostly unsullied sound, while at the same time I hear a very nice and natural note weight. Nothing too thick, and nothing too thin. Also, there’s nothing veiled and nothing too strident. Like I said earlier, it’s natural sounding, with a more organic constitution and again, no crazy peaks to disjoint that balance I keep talking about. Panning out and looking at the Zenith as a whole, I think this tuning is refreshing for a brand like KZ, as in the past KZ had slightly different tuning, but also the driver tech is getting better. Now it’s about maturity, control, glass lined definition and a more balanced distribution of the frequency. So, you won’t hear that screaming treble adding undue brightness and forced resolution. Also, you won’t hear that bulbous bass muddying up the mix or recessed and less pronounced mids. It’s a very even keeled tuning with nicely taut notes which meander through just about every track with solid control (for an under $100 single DD) and a higher-res depiction of my music library. This is what updated drivers, and a more balanced philosophy will afford you. At least that’s how I hear it. 

Nice resolution

I hear a layered sound with clean note outlines, which comes across mostly rounded in body, giving off the illusion of dimensionality. I also hear good texture to the sound. From the low-end through to the treble each frequency range has some actual texture. It isn’t some flat, dull, deadpanned and anemic sound. Less soft note edges, nothing pillowy, wooly, hazy, and nothing grainy with seemingly no overlapping or blended notes. Instead, the Zenith has solid note density while also being able to take on complicated tracks rather well. Certainly, much better than I would’ve thought. Once again, very nice note definition and clarity along with a heightened resolution. Is it a detail beast? Well, no, it’s not exactly that. The Zenith most definitely is not an analytical style sound. However, the Zenith has a sharper note contour than we are used to hearing which does aid resolution making details and other technical aspects of the sound easier to hear. 

*Note: the below graph only shows the Zenith without the bass witches enabled using the “0000” switch configuration. My critical listening was completed using “1110”. Basically, picture about 3dbs of extra low-end emphasis.

Bass Region 

The bass region is one which won’t win any basshead awards and won’t appeal to your inner “guilty pleasure” style need for some raucous bass. It isn’t basshead. The low-end sounds like it’s moderately lifted, it’s somewhat guttural and adequately deep in extension and it has some slam too. But that has more to do with emphasis. What the Zenith does well is keep a very nicely controlled bass. Certainly, quality over quantity. The low end is punchy, tightly wound, and reasonably pronounced while never encroaching upon the midrange in a detrimental manner. No doubt the bass does glide right into the midrange in a very subtle manner adding a touch of warmth and body to notes. Nothing egregious though. The bass has some fast-twitch snap to it, good clarity for the cost, and a more tactile nature to it. Not the type which makes its presence felt within each region but more so shows up when called upon. Even with all three bass switches flipped “on”. You are only adding roughly 3dbs of extra lift and so you never really get a dominant bass region. That doesn’t make it bad though. Not even close. No sir, the low-end has some real speed to it as it can take on quicker bass tracks with conviction yet at the same time, I don’t feel that transients are lightning quick or anything like that. There’s a natural decay. Again, the bass does carry some density along with palpable and rounded notes. I haven’t heard anything that I’d consider one-noted either. Just a clean bass. Just enough muscle and authority. Of course it won’t be for everyone, but those who enjoy a nicely balanced low-end with solid definition should enjoy the Zenith. 

Sub-Bass

Like I said, the sub-levels of the low-end don’t grumble and rumble to the deepest extents of the frequency. The sub-bass can get guttural when a track calls for it though. It’s simply not bass-boi in the way it performs those tracks. Plenty satisfying for me though. Maybe not the best for a convincing double bass all the time, but very well controlled, nonetheless. That said, there’s plenty of weight and droning depth for the bass guitars in “Kick It” by Collective Soul or “I Still Exist” by White Denim. I get that haptic judder, that tactile feel to these tracks and even some substantial enough fullness. Yet what strikes me the most is how tailored and formed each note is. Nice timbre too. Again, nothing that is going to rattle your eyeballs. Remember, this is a balanced tuning here. So, I could see some folks yearning for a more deeply shuddering and quavering sub level bass, but I am perfectly happy. What’s nice is how well contoured and detailed this region is and that detailed approach enters in a linear manner right into the mid-bass. Really a nicely done job here by KZ. I know it’s tempting to tune some extra meat into this region but that would also throw off what makes this set special. Not bad at all. 

Mid-Bass

Just like the sub-bass, the mid-bass has a moderate level of convexity and bullish slam. Yet it can still rise to the occasion and hit pretty hard for my tastes. Granted, I like most any sound signature. Yet the mid-bass can at times scratch that itch. Listen to Ice Cube‘s “So Sensitive”. Friends, it is so very satisfying. The Zenith hits those exact and pronounced bass drops with exactness and some real nice punch. It has that tacky snap on attack yet with a meaty fundamental tone. Edgy note outlines encase the body to each sonorous and deep-toned beat. To add to that, the Zenith shows off a perfectly clean surrounding Melody, well separated, and each note sounds distinct. I’m telling you this is a quality low-end. “The Hardest Part” by Washed Out is another which shows the Zenith’s ability to show up when called upon. However, it doesn’t just minimally show up. What the Zenith does is hit each bass guitar with fullness and mass. There’s a fast twitch density that the Zenith has which never seems to overstay its welcome. So no, it isn’t the most robust of mid-bass replays, but it contrasts the other regions wonderfully and does so in a very clean manner, with great note definition, great texture, and that hard and precise punch which is nice to hear. 

Downsides to the Bass Region 

Of course, the downside is the same downside that I’ve been talking about within the last few paragraphs. Like I said, the Zenith won’t be for everyone. If you need, require, and absolutely have to have a meaty and booming low-end then the Zenith won’t be for you. Even with all bass switches turned on. In fact, those switches don’t affect the balance at all in my opinion. Furthermore, I’d say the bass switches turned on provides the best balance. Without them the sound veers into slightly bright territory yet stays within the bounds of what I’d call neutral. At any rate, I digress. The truth is that the Zenith is not a heavy hitter and certainly could use a few more db’s down low. For those who desire a hint more warmth, some deeper and more bullish sub-bass, a more rotund and resonance-fueled listening session. Those folks probably will want to keep looking. No doubt there’s no shortage of heavy hitters in the price range. However, I cannot in good faith knock what KZ did here. I think it’s a fantastic bass region for many reasons. Well, resolved, well defined, well textured, and enough weight to play most any genre convincingly. 

Midrange

The midrange on the KZ Zenith is a story of neutrality with a touch of warmth, cleanliness, streamlined, glass-lined, and clean-lined musicality with plenty of technical chops for most folks. Really nice for a single dynamic driver earphone. If there was a focal point to this set, it would likely be the midrange. Something I don’t usually say in a KZ iem. I like how the midrange is not pushed back into the sound field, but instead it is rendered a bit closer to the listener. This does a few things, but most importantly it helps vocalists to sound well highlighted against the rest of the track. Also, vocals are perfectly centered at all times unless a recording tells it otherwise. However, the midrange capitalizes on the awesome control that this Driver-X is able to provide my music. From the low-mids to the upper-mids the sound is very clean, and I hear an almost holographic or 3D presentation. I’d actually say that this is one of the better tuned midrange performances that KZ has come up with and certainly the best from any of their single dynamic driver earphones. Very precise without losing the emotional pull that some tracks need.

Musical/Technical

Certainly, there are more musical midranges from some other sets out there. However, the Zenith has this awesome knack for being one part musically driven and one part technically adept. The technical side comes from the awesome clarity that the Zenith possesses along with this highly resolving and tight note delivery. Not to mention the staging is really nice on this set. There’s also a non-abrasive controlled and acute sharpness to most notes along with a mostly black background. Together the Zenith seems to pronounce the clarity really well. Yet it still has an emotionally gratifying feel to any song which requires it. So definitely the Zenith doesn’t lack musicality at all in my opinion. Also, the Zenith shows off a nice technical ability. Detail retrieval is very good in the midrange. Separation of instruments and vocalists is also very solid. Imaging and placement of elements within the sound field along with nice layering of sounds is also very well done. This Driver-X is obviously a very nice driver, and I feel that KZ got the most out of it. 

Lower-Midrange

The low-mids are not the type which are overly aided by warmth cast upon them from the bass region. You won’t hear the thickest or most rich sounding low-mids either. Be that as it may, I don’t hear anything thin or papery either. There’s an element of moistness to the sound, very nice timbre, and etched-out lean muscle mass which helps to provide a semi-rich note body that has good contrast to it. It’d be one thing if the sound was frail, or dry, or dull and boring. But it’s none of those things. The song “How it Feels” by Zayn is great with the Zenith in my ears. His voice is hearty, raspy, and sentimental in his artistic expression which almost sounds blues influenced. The Zenith portrays his voice very well, great presence in the mix, each lingering breath is heard. Every up and down harmonic shift in his voice comes through with that rasp, semi-rich but well bodied, and the emotion is not lost on the Zenith. It’s a similar story for most male singers within the region. They have just enough weighted authority to sound like males but also, they come across nicely etched against the backdrop of a track. I know there are plenty of people who desire warm, thick, and lush in this region but for a balanced approach the Zenith is very nice. 

Upper-Midrange 

The upper-mids have a very easy lift in the pinna rise. Such a nice and gradual climb. Man, KZ did a nice job in “not” tuning the Zenith with more of a tight vertical pinna climb, and they kept the pinna rise in nice balance with the bass. Really nice to hear. I say that because this region has a natural helping of shimmer, natural level of levity to female voices, just enough sparkle for instrumentation. Certainly, the upper-mids are a hair more forward and present than the low-mids. They are tuned with a touch more vibrance and energy. All the same, I never feel like the Zenith veers towards shout. There’s a point where an iem can go past. An imaginary ceiling, if you will. Where a set can go from shimmery with controlled vivacity, to artificially boosted and glaring. The Zenith never does that, it never seems to cross that line. It does gain some extra luminance with the bass switches turned off, but it’s never outright sharp to my ears. The timbre remains intact, hovering around natural, colored towards neutral, clean as can be. Females have just enough weight for their voices too. Norah Jones sings her hit “Don’t Know Why” and the Zenith just eats this track up. Her voice is so well pronounced, breathy, feathered into the melody surrounding her so nicely to my ears with the Zenith. Every inflection, every nuance of her silky voice is heard. So, females do very well. 

Instruments 

Most midrange instruments come across organic, closer to natural. This region is so well contoured with each note, very taut, tight, and glass-lined. You can hear every last intonation to every instrument. I like that notes are relatively tight without losing out on harmonics. Like I said earlier, there’s a natural transient behavior on the Zenith. Strings generally have a slight sharpness or satisfying abrasiveness when needed along with a very woody and natural resonance to them. Acoustic guitar decays with such a nice and earthy sustained harmonic. Violin is similar, at times, though violin play can also sound silvery, mellifluous and always with nice projection and intonation of the timbre. Percussion has that snap I was talking about. Not to an ultra-energetic or vibrant extent, but there’s some crisp snap on attack. I hear nice body to percussion as well, they aren’t dulled or hollow. Really all instruments benefit from the Zenith so long as they don’t require a ridiculously deep bass. Honestly, the midrange instruments all sound nice for a single DD at this price. Very clean, with the right amount of sharpness, very precise without sounding dry and clinical, or too analytical. Sure, piano could use a hint more warmth but still can sound resounding when it needs to and always seemingly very tuneful. I am not going through every Instrument here as it takes too long, too generalized, and every track can display them differently. That said, I am very happy with the timbre and the overall natural tinge to my music.

Downsides to the Midrange

The biggest gripe that I can hear would be the fact that the midrange doesn’t have that warm, lush, and rich timbre that so many desire. Note weight is not going to be thick and weighted. You won’t hear that ultra authoritative male voice. Granted, I don’t mind it at all but I’m not you. I’d also say that anyone who desires an even more analytical style sound may want to keep looking. Those who are absolute detail lovers, those who tend to like a more bright, thinner and more clinical sound may want to look at other options. The Zenith is somewhere in the middle. Good at all aspects but not really a true master of any. Truthfully, I love what KZ did here and it’s a breath of fresh air to my ears. At least from a tuning standpoint. Yes it could use a little of this here, and a little of that there, but altogether I find the midrange on the Zenith is probably the jewel of the tuning. Not bad at all.

Treble Region 

This brings us to the treble region. I feel the Zenith does well for a single DD at trying to replicate a tough region to get right. Probably the toughest to get right. Especially for a single dynamic driver. The Zenith does have some treble bite to notes, some crispness too. Without question this is not a treble head’s delight, however. KZ added just enough influence from this region to counter the bass, to bring levity to the rest of the mix, to add enough openness to the sound, and enough to illuminate some details. Truth is that the treble is actually quite good. I like that there is plenty of brilliance in the treble to provide levity to the rest of the mix. When you add in the fact that note definition is also very well defined, notes also have at least some semblances of roundness to them. Granted, the treble is smoother than it isn’t as there’s certainly some limitations to a single DD. However, the Zenith actually has some presence of treble punch and some slight haptic recognition as well. There is some feel to notes, almost like some notes are embossed within that smoothness. I don’t want to oversell here either. You won’t get the type of technical treble that you’d get from a good balanced armature, planar, EST, or some piezo drivers. But you will get solid timbre and very nice tonality from the Zenith along with perfect cohesion which is just as important to me. 

It fits… 

There’s an uplifting quality to this region with plenty of sparkle, while never forcing it down our throats. So often we hear artificially boosted treble in an attempt to glean some details with forced resolution, all to extract the subtleties from music. It’s something that KZ themselves have done quite a bit in the past. Now, that type of tuning has its fans and it isn’t all bad, but by-and-large with an overly boosted treble you’ll likely have some sharpness. One thing I can say for sure is that the KZ Zenith never seems to step over that line for me. I don’t hear anything too harsh or piercing for my tastes. Yes, the treble is boosted, but not to the point of annoyance, and not even close to artificially boosted. Again, it all goes back to the balance. Across the spectrum nothing stands out as a surefire focal point of this set and the treble is no different. I’d actually say it’s boosted just enough to fit the overall character of this set as the treble just… fits. 

Technically astute

Beyond the emphasis I am also pretty impressed with the Zenith’s technical ability up top. For one, I hear some nice extension into the upper treble. Stuff like the secondary harmonics of a cymbal strike never sound splashy, tizzy, or tinny. I don’t ever get that washed out treble tizz from this set. Also, I can hear those harmonics pretty well. The extension isn’t game changing or anything but it’s solid enough to stretch the stage a bit and provide some of that info which gets lost on so many budget iems. Of course, there are iems which are literally tuned to illuminate the highest of highs a lot better and I’m sure treble heads already know all about those sets. So, no… the Zenith isn’t perfect and if I’ve sounded as though I’m saying that then please forgive me. This is an under $100 single DD and expectations should be corralled a bit. Again, it has its limitations. Nevertheless, for what it is, the Zenith does a fine job with reaching out past 10k and not coming across exaggerated or too intense. Also, detail retrieval is quite nice. Certainly not the best and KZ didn’t exactly tune this set to extract every last detail, but there are so many instances where the Zenith surprised me. The micro-dynamic subtle volume shifts and micro-details can be heard nicely so long as the track isn’t too complicated, too congested, or ultra bass heavy. Separation of instruments is once again good as well. 

Downsides to the Treble Region 

I’d say the biggest downside will be for those treble heads who love a shiny treble with all the bite, punch, and roundness that they can get. I feel the Zenith is great for what it is, but it won’t make those people happy. Also, dark treble lovers or those who desire a rolled-off treble will not find that here. I know so many folks who are very sensitive to any brightness, and I do think that the Zenith can exhibit enough brilliance to be a problem for them. Especially in the “0000” configuration. That all said, I find it hard to criticize what KZ was able to do here. I feel they did a solid job tuning a treble which works nicely with the rest of the mix and doesn’t induce fatigue. Not for me anyways. 

Technicalities 

Soundstage 

I’d say that the KZ Zenith has a nice sized stage. I’d say it’s roughly average to above average in overall perceived size and grandeur. However, the Zenith has a more Intimate stage. It’s wide, and tall, nothing congested, and there’s good space between instruments, very nice layering of sounds too. Yet the stage is a little closer to the listener. The midrange isn’t really recessed but instead it’s pushed a hint forward which makes things a hair more intimate. That said, I really like the way the sound field comes across for my music library. It is not some vast and enormous stadium sized venue in my head. Of course, I don’t know many iems that will give you a huge stage. But size isn’t the greatest determination of what makes a soundstage “good”, in my opinion. Much has to do with spacing, depth, and layering too. Thankfully the Zenith actually has good depth. At least enough to perceive layers within my music. Obviously, not all types and genres are filled with layers, but if they are there, the Zenith will usually reciprocate. One thing is for sure, I don’t hear a stage that sounds compressed, or blended and nothing sounds congested. For the most part it’s a nicely laid out stage. 

Separation / Imaging 

Another bright spot to this high-budget oriented single DD is that it actually has some nice instrument separation and imaging. Both skills come across very well on the Zenith. Again, this is a very competent driver with a solid tuning. The balance alone helps tremendously for the Zenith to sound well separated with partitioned-off elements of the soundstage. I hear very nice layering of sounds for the cost of the Zenith too. Certainly, better than I expected. You have great clarity, high resolution, clean transients, a nice stage size, very nice macro-dynamics, and you have a mostly black background which all comes together to help the Zenith in separation. Imaging follows suit with very well-placed elements of the stage. Vocals are always centered well. At least that I paid attention to. Really a nice job on KZ’s part with these two important attributes to the sound. 

Detail Retrieval

Once again, I have nothing bad to say about the Zenith for detail retrieval. For all the reasons it’s solid in separation of instruments, it is also solid in illuminating the subtleties and bringing the details to the surface. Obviously on seriously congested or complicated tracks you won’t hear the finest details, or in heavy bass driven music also. That should go without saying. Also, single DD’s are already at a slight disadvantage when it comes to resolving tiny details and all technicalities for that matter. Yet when tuned well, like the Zenith is tuned, you may just be surprised. Certainly, the Zenith is above average in its ability to retrieve details. 

Comparison

Dunu Kima 2   ($119)

The Dunu Kima 2 (Kima 2 Review) is one of those sets which really surprised me. Truly a timbre beast which provides some of the most natural timbre available for the cost. I have so many comparisons which I could pull but the Kima 2 seems like the perfect set to pair the Zenith against. Yes, it is more expensive, but I think the two are right in line with each other on sheer ability. Now, the Kima 2 is also a single dynamic driver earphone which consists of a 10mm DLC dynamic driver and one of the better unboxing experiences that $100 can afford. Now, the Kima 2 is part of the Kima series of iems which has been a major win for Dunu. Really each iem in this series has been a hit. However, it’s the Kima 2 which took the series to the next level and one that I personally really enjoy. Let’s look at some differences. 

Differences 

To begin, the build of both sets is off the charts. I do find the Zenith to have the “seemingly” better build, but that’s by a micro-fraction. Both are truly built awesome. The design of both is also equally great in my opinion. However, I personally enjoy the look of the Zenith here too. Again, I love them both, but the Zenith design is simply too intricate and unique to not give it the nod. Now, as far as unboxing experiences go, I definitely think the Kima 2 wins out. They provide a really nice modular cable, awesome case and a truck load of eartips. Not that the Zenith is bad, but the Kima 2 is on another level. Perhaps that’s where the cost increase goes. Again, the Kima 2 is a little bit more expensive than the original MSRP of the Zenith ($99). However, remember that right now you can get it for only $55. If it was me, that would seal the deal between the two. Still, I have to measure each other against the actual MSRP. So far, these two are really neck and neck for me. Let’s check out the sound difference between both sets. 

Sound Differences 

To begin, both iems are very similar. It isn’t until you spend quality time comparing that you hear the distinct differences. Anyways, the Zenith has a more guttural, and more well defined low-end with a slightly cleaner approach. Note that this is with the bass switches turned on. Without the bass switches it is hard to tell a difference other than the slightly denser bass of the Zenith. As far as midranges go, the Kima 2 truly specializes in its ability to render vocals beautifully and so it does have the edge there. Slightly more realistic timbre, more natural by a slight degree too. However, the Zenith is a better balance of technically adept and musical. Most certainly better detail retrieval, slightly better layering of sounds too, slightly more open. The treble is also a hair more pronounced on the Zenith. A touch more airy, better bite and more crispness. While the Kima 2 shows off a wonderfully smooth and non-offensive sounding treble, the Zenith adds a touch more bite. Both sets have very nice extension into the upper treble and neither sounds splashy. Technically the Zenith seems to win out here. But man is it by the slightest of margins. On the flipside, the Kima 2 wins out for timbre and tonality. The Zenith and the Kima 2 both have nice soundstage, but the Zenith has a touch more depth. 

Final thoughts on this comparison 

I felt this was an appropriate comparison. Both iems are absolute baller sets for their respective prices. Both have their own sway to the sound which sets them apart. It really comes down to whether you want to pay more for a more timbre accurate and wholly musical iem that doesn’t even sniff at being offensive in the Kima 2 and a better unboxing, awesome cable. Or do you want a less expensive and completely clean, punchy, well defined and resolute iem in the Zenith. Also, better details on the Zenith while not missing out in musicality. Again, these differences are so very slight. Also, it would change by the day which one I like more. I guess it depends on my mood. Both sets are personally highly recommended by me (if that means anything) and both are very nice sets for any collection. 

Is it worth the asking price? 

The $55 sale price and $99 MSRP are both absolutely worth the cost of ownership. There’s no doubt in my mind. I’m telling you; the KZ Zenith is a very high caliber set for the cost. At $55 it is one of the more insane no brainer that I’ve come across. Akin to the Kefine Klean (Klean Review) in how awesome that price is. Only the Zenith is actually more refined to my ears. Which is saying a lot because the Kefine Klean is a wonderful iem. Anyways, the KZ Zenith does have a boatload of iems which all hustle for your dollar. So many great single DD’s like the Simgot EA500LM (EA500LM Review), the Kefine Delci AE (Delci AE Review), the Fiio JD7 (JD7 Review), the Dunu Kima 2 (Kima 2 Review) is close in price too. I could sit here for a while naming off quality sets. However, there’s also planars, a couple all-BA sets, and some very nice hybrids, dual/triple DD sets etc. which occupy this space. Sets like the Shanling Tino (Tino Review), the QOA Mimosa (Mimosa Reviewc), Artti R1 (R1 Review), Letshuoer DZ4 (DZ4 Review), ivipQ Q14 Shanhai (soon to be reviewed), Simgot EW300 (EW300 Review) and the list goes on and on. So no shortage of competition. However, I do think the Zenith is set apart a little bit and I’ll try to make that case below. 

The Why… 

Because the build quality is truly second to none at this price point. Whether at $55 or $99 the Zenith is built like it should cost three times as much. I am so impressed at the all-metal build! The intricately laid out faceplate is so stellar! Just holding them in your hands feels like a premium set. KZ also updated the driver to the brand new (also stellar) Driver-X. It’s the new ultra-linear driver made in house by KZ and folks, it’s very nice. In fact, the driver is one of the largest reasons why the Zenith performs the way it does (yes, I’m captain obvious). Also take into account the dip-switches. You have a nice unboxing too. You may want to upgrade the cable, but the presentation is nice. There is quite a bit more upgrades they made to make the Zenith what it is. 

That sound!! 

However, as always, it’s the sound which truly takes this set and sets it apart. Now, I’m not saying it’s the best in the price point. Though the Zenith does have a case for it if you enjoy the sound signature. It has a very clean, tidy, very punchy bass that keeps up well with complicated tracks. I hear awesome texture out of the bass. Really well done. Next, you have a forward and pristine midrange with a natural note weight, clean transients, non-offensive and good for vocalists. I hear solid details, Imaging, and separation with nice layering for a single DD at this price. Also, the treble has nice extension, has its fair share of treble bite and punch with just enough crispness while displaying a mostly smooth and easy listening treble region. Yet it’s how this set brings it altogether which helps it to really make its mark. Great technically, still very musically gifted too though. Now, besides a slight lack in bass weight and depth, the sound is super clean, black background, highly resolute, and almost perfectly balanced. I gotta say, the Zenith is a very nice offering and if you can get it for $55 then it is a wild steal. Without question the Zenith is worth every last penny. 

Ratings  (0-10)

Note: all ratings are based upon my subjective judgment. These ratings are garnered against either similarly priced sets or with similar driver implementations or styles with the unique parameters of my choosing. In the case of the KZ Zenith ratings below, that would be $50-$99 single dynamic driver earphones. Please remember that “ratings” don’t tell the whole story. This leaves out nuance and a number of other qualities which make an iem what it is. A “5-6” is roughly average and please take into consideration the “lot” of iems these ratings are gathered against. $50-$99 single dynamic driver sets are a fairly large sized scope of iems. So, It should be noteworthy to see a rating above a “9.0”. My ratings are never the same and each set of ratings tells a different story. Each time you read one of my ratings will be unique to that review. Basically, I create a Rating that makes sense to me. 

Aesthetic 

–Build Quality:      9.9      Well built, 3D printed, clean build      

–Look:                       9.8     Very unique and cool design. 

–Fit/Comfort:         9.1       Fit and comfort is very good for me. 

–Accessories:          8.9      One of the best KZ unboxing experiences. 

–Overall:                   9.4🔥                                 

Sound Rating     

–Timbre:                    9.3    Great timbre. 

–Bass:                        9.3    Punchy, textured, clean. 

–Midrange:                9.4    Highly detailed, great clarity, tuneful. 

–Treble:                       9.3   Non-Offensive, sparkly, extended well. 

–Technicalities:        9.3    Technically astute iem, great details.    

–Musicality:               9.0    Musicality is nice, rhythmic sound.                                          

–Overall:                     9.3🔥🔥🔥

Ratings Summary:

To summarize my ratings for the KZ Zenith I should point out what I said in the note before this section. I said that I’m rating the KZ Zenith against any single dynamic driver earphones between the price of $50 and $99. I would have gone higher but I’m not sure what the final price will be. I’m quite positive that KZ will likely keep it under $60 but I’m simply not sure. So, it made sense to me to go from $50 to $99. I had all of the better single DD iems within this price point right in front of me to complete this rating, which is helpful to have. I listen to a track for each rating category and go through each set quickly to establish some fairly fast ratings. It usually takes me about 1-2 hours. I actually enjoy this portion of every review. That said, I don’t advise that you take these ratings as gold. They are not. They are one man’s opinion. A biased opinion at that. Ratings never made much sense to me as all of the nuance and intricacies don’t get addressed and so many people base buying decisions off of ratings. Of course, they have their place, and I love “best-of” ranking lists. However, take these ratings above as a grain of salt. In fact, skip ahead. 

Explain Yourself!! 

Without a doubt the most flak I get over any ratings… is always the “Bass” rating. I could certainly see that happening on this set. I gave the Zenith a “9.3”, which is high. Why did I give the Zenith a “9.3”? Well, it wasn’t for its quantity, I can tell you that. I gave it that score because of how nicely refined the bass is. You have actual good texture, clean attack through decay, well defined, not even close to one-noted, and able to resolve subtleties within the region better than most sets under $100. There are a couple sets I had rated either the same or higher but a “9.3” is great and the Zenith deserves it… in my humble opinion. The rest of the ratings speak for themselves, and I don’t think they need explanation. If you read my review, then you’ll know why I scored the Zenith so high against other single DD’s. 

One more thing, friends, try to remember the lot of iems I am rating the Zenith against. So often I get messages asking about why I rate a set so high by people who never take the time to read the note above this section. Remember, I am not rating the Zenith against any and every driver configuration. Only against other single DD’s. This drastically changes the rating as the pool of sets is so much smaller. Not a big deal though but I feel I need to explain myself a bit. I’m definitely considering stopping these ratings. 

Conclusion 

Thank you! 

To conclude my full written review and feature of the KZ Zenith, I first have to thank the people of Knowledge Zenith for providing the Zenith for review. I also want to personally thank Tyvan Lam. Thank you very much, KZ is truly doing awesome! Also, I want to thank you, the reader, for clicking the link and spending time here. Mobileaudiophile.com survives off of clicks and we really want to grow our reach. To do that we need to get in line with the Google algorithm. However, to do that we need clicks and time spent from you. I promise you it means the world to us. Thank you. Also, I really do hope it helps you. I cannot say that I review without bias, but I definitely tell you exactly how I feel about any and every product that I feature. I know I can say the same for my partners. Mobileaudiophile.com is a place where you can go for a truthful opinion. Thank you. 

Other Perspectives 

Now that you’ve read this review, I encourage you to go and check out other thoughts. Friends, this is very important. Get other perspectives from other people. We are so very different. Each one of us. Just because I enjoy something doesn’t mean that the next guy will, or that you will. I give you my opinion. Granted, that opinion comes from many reviews, but it’s an opinion, nonetheless. I will always see other reviewers who differ from me. Guess what… that’s okay. In fact, I wouldn’t have it any other way. We want you to find what works for you and if figuring that out means looking at 5-7 reviews, then good. You figured it out. So, with that all said I think I’m done. Please comment below any questions that you may have, and I’ll be happy to answer. I don’t always see those questions but eventually I’ll get to them. Beyond that, please take good care, stay as safe as possible and always… God Bless!