KZ ZSN Pro 2
Intro
Hello friends, I have with me today the latest iteration of the ZSN line from KZ Audio, the “KZ ZSN Pro 2”. The ZSN Pro 2 is a Hybrid 1DD/1BA iem with a new Dynamic Driver, Crossover and Balanced Armature Driver from what I’ve read. I gotta tell you that if it wasn’t for the old school sets like the KZ ZSN and the KZ ZST etc. I wouldn’t be here today writing these reviews and I’d probably be listening to “Beats by Dre” or some other horrific headphone. KZ is one of those brands that attracts attention and hearing they came out with another ZSN model had my attention. Just in the name of nostalgic memory. I literally came into this hobby because an extremely V-shaped KZ formed a perfect bridge between veiled bass monsters which were ridiculously overpriced and the ole’ school KZ sets which cost me the same as McDonald’s for two. KZ was like an epiphany to my younger self. I would scream from the mountain tops that they were the greatest thing created for the price. This led me down the so-called “rabbit hole” and into the sea of iems in what I refer to as the… “Audioverse”.
Generally impressed
I have reviewed a vast number of KZ sets in the past and have always generally come away impressed with the build, design, and sound of their iems. KZ has never even once asked me to skew my words or speak favorably about their sets and they’ve never offered me money (to which I’d never say yes to) or anything other than a review and a feature. They stand by their products like no other brand, I think we can all agree about that. So anyways, I must say a big thank you to the KZ Audio for sending this unit to me. I greatly appreciate it. Below are some of the other sets I’ve reviewed over the course of the last couple years.
– AS16 Pro
– VXS
– CRA+
– PR1 Hifi
– EDCX
– Linglong
– ZVX
– D-Fi
– Duo
– EDXS
– AS24
– Krila
– AZ20
– ZAT
– Rhapsody
– PR3
Price to performance
Yes, I have had my fair share of reviews from this brand, whether it be KZ or their sub-brand CCA. So, I have seen the progression (like some of you) in the tuning and the way their sets fit within the market. KZ seems to move to the swaying current of the global market, and they do so in high numbers folks. Some people say that like spaghetti they “throw it at the wall to see what sticks”. Is that true? I don’t know and to be honest I don’t care, not even a little bit. I say that because KZ creates market standards at many different budget price points. They are always near the top in most segments, give or take a few. Generally, KZ seems to figure things out and slowly progresses with each variant which has shown true throughout their history as a company. Price to performance is their calling card. I can point to many of their sets that I really love for their price. The KZ AS24, CCA Rhapsody, KZ D-Fi, CCA CRA+, and the KZ VXS is one of the best tws for flat out sound for the price. This is only to name a few. Of course, they’ve had their sets which didn’t pan out but that goes the same with any brand.
Now that the intro is out of the way I will burn this set in and begin some critical listening. I want to find out if the ZSN can stand next to some of the better sets in the price point and if there is any improvements since the first ZSN. With that, I’d like to get into this review. The KZ ZSN Pro 2….
Non-Affiliated Purchasing links:
Disclaimer:
I received the KZ ZSN Pro 2 from KZ Audio in exchange for 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 sample iem. KZ 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 and thanks for reading.
ZSN Pro 2 Pros
-Price
-Build Quality
-Design
-Dynamically balanced V-shape
-Resolution is great
-Great bass control and nice thump
-Clean midrange
-Energetic Treble with great extension
-Detail Retrieval is very nice
-Soundstage is wide
-Imaging
ZSN Pro 2 Cons
-Possibly too much low-end quantity for some folks
-There is some sibilance
-Treble can become pretty bright
-Possibly fatiguing in some tracks
Gear used for testing
–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2
Packaging / Accessories
Unboxing
This should come as no surprise, but the unboxing isn’t the most lavish that my eyes have ever seen. Of course, nobody should expect that either. I’ve done enough KZ/CCA reviews to know how this one will go. KZ sent the ZSN Pro 2 in a pretty small box with nothing more than a sketched drawing of the earphones on the cover and some specs on the back. KZ keeps it pretty plain folks, which is fine by the way. Inside you’ll first notice the ZSN Pro 2 sitting pretty in some cardboard cutouts. Under the earphones is a couple of those ridiculously difficult soft plastic baggies that include the cable and eartips. Not really much to report on this one. KZ has been known to put less money in the unboxing and instead put it towards the earphones themselves. I’m okay with that.
Eartips
The included eartips which come packaged with the ZSN Pro 2 are three pairs (S, M, L) white silicone tips with a pretty rigid and firm stem and a narrower bore. I find these tips just fine for the ZSN Pro 2. They seal really well in my ears. You can find tips like these all the time in this hobby, so it isn’t some new thing. I say all that just to add that I instead used KZ Starline tips for the entirety of this review period. I like the white silicone but for whatever reason I find the spatiality is a bit better on the Starlines. Call me crazy, and it may just all be in my head, but I find the KZ Starlines to be better than the white silicones. It is better to have a slightly narrower bore with the treble so highlighted in the mix. They help to even some of the upper-mid energy out a bit better.
Cable
If anyone expects me to say anything other than “This is the same KZ cable, we always see” then I am going to have to laugh. KZ always uses one cable and one cable alone for all their sets. No changes. It’s just the way it is. If you don’t like the White/opaque QDC style 3.5 single ended silver-plated copper cable like they’ve always added then, you’ll have to cable swap like me. I actually went with an 8-core white Fedai SPC balanced cable instead. I definitely like the white braiding and fatter cable paired with the ZSN Pro 2 much better. As always, I will say that the included cable is perfectly fine and functions very well. There really isn’t anything wrong with it other than it gets a bit boring, and it usually never pairs very well aesthetically. Granted, I assume most of this thought stems from the fact that we want to see new and nice cables.
I should also note that the cable which is included can be purchased with or without a microphone. I never get the mic version, but I know some folks enjoy having a mic for call purposes or for gaming and such. The mic can be used to perform various commands as well as sound pretty good for calls. I have conducted call quality checks with this cable before and actually, it’s pretty decent.
Build / Design / Internals / Fit
Build Quality
One thing that KZ/CCA is well known for is its ability to craft very well built iems for the least amount of money. Usually, their $20 iems look like they should cost much more. So, no issues with build quality here. The KZ ZSN Pro 2 takes on the traditional or rather “typical” iem design. Its shell is transparent in design, made out of plastic and feels rather durable. It has a very nice finish to it. The faceplates on the other hand are a full alloy material with almost a diamond plate design (get to that in a minute). The faceplate actually feels decently built. You have one slightly larger vent towards the front of the faceplate and what appears to be three tiny vents as well. All things considered, meaning the price point and thinking of every set sold in that price point, I feel the ZSN Pro 2 is very much like every other ZSN version, and it’s built very well. No issues to note. No burs, glue, nothing odd looking. The whole set looks very good. The nozzle is medium in length which helps for the fit. The nozzle width is roughly 6.5 to 7 mm which does make it a bit fatter than usual. Anyways, not bad.
Design
You have to be impressed (at least a little bit) with the design that KZ is able to come up with. I mean, this is a housing we’ve seen for years, yet somehow KZ crafts these sets to still appear fresh. The KZ ZSN Pro 2 comes in three different colorways in Silver/Blue, Silver, and Gold. Obviously, the set I have is the Silver colored ZSN Pro 2 with the blue diamond plate design on the faceplates. Now, we have also seen this diamond plate type look in the recent past. In fact, I just reviewed the KZ ZAT recently and it too has this same look. I liked the look of that set and this one is no different. They just look cool. Something about the mirror polish faceplate and transparent shell which brings it all together for me. Nice job KZ.
Internals
Now, this is where we begin to see the divide between this newer Pro 2 model and some of its predecessors. KZ actually went and designed an all-new dynamic driver which they named “Super-Linear Dynamic Driver”. This all-new driver makes it obviously apparent when listening to the old ZSN Pro just how much better of a driver it is. To be exact it’s a 10mm driver of unknown material. Also, KZ didn’t stop there; they also went and updated their balanced armature drivers by improving the actual structure of the driver. I have zero idea what that means or how they improved the structure but…That’s what I’m told. One more thing, KZ also improved the crossover by adding in a new electronic crossover KZ states that the sound is smoothened greater than previous adaptations of the ZSN series. Folks, that’s a lot of changes. If you don’t mind, can I say one more thing… Friends, KZ did something different because this set sounds far and away better than its past iterations. Without question.
Enhanced sound with super-linear driver
KZ Promotional
Super-linear dynamic driver significantly improves sound dynamics
KZ ZSN PRO 2 is equipped with a super-linear dynamic driver that brings together the purity and power of sound. By significantly enhancing sound dynamics, every note becomes vivid. Whether it’s the impactful bass or the delicate treble, it can be easily controlled, providing you with an unprecedented listening experience.
Balanced armature optimized once again
Better treble and lower distortion
By improving the structure of the balanced armature driver, we have successfully reduced its distortion rate. The optimized balanced armature driver lets you experience clearer and purer high-frequency details when listening to music.
Fit / Isolation
I could sum this up really quick. Do your ears fit any model of ZSN from previous years? If so, this set will fit you. Like I said earlier, the ZSN Pro 2 takes on a typical iem design. I’d be willing to bet it’ll fit 90% of you with no issues whatsoever. The ZSN Pro 2 is not huge, medium nozzles, good nozzle angle and lightweight. For me it fits like a glove, but also, most sets fit me well. I rarely have a hard time getting a nice fit. As far as isolation is concerned, I feel the ZSN Pro 2 isolates decently well. About average. It definitely isn’t designed for stage use so it won’t attenuate mass amounts of outside noise. It’s good though. Turn your music on and you’re golden.
Drivability
Mobile Listening
The KZ ZSN Pro 2 is definitely an easy to drive set of earphones. It’s rated at 26 ohms and a sensitivity of 108 db’s which puts it right in the wheelhouse of good drivability. For mobile purposes the sky’s the limit, almost. Most sources can drive this set to good auditory volume. Listening with the IFi Go Blu was almost perfect as it is a touch to the left of neutral and very dynamic, colored if you will. The Qudelix 5k sounded nice too. I like a little more warmth to counter the treble sharpness but, in all reality, the ZSN Pro 2 does pretty well off almost all sources. This is a V-shaped dynamically balanced set, and it still has plenty of warmth from the low-end as well as brightness from the highs. I used balanced on almost all source devices. The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus was a wonderful pairing. The bass really dug deep and sounded even tighter than something like the Shanling UA2 or Fiio KA3. However, the Moondrop Dawn 4.4 was a beast with this set. What a mobile pairing that dongle dac is with a set like this!
A bit more juice
Certainly not mandatory as the ZSN Pro 2 is really simple to drive but I did absolutely adore the Shanling M6 Ultra as it synergized very well with the ZSN Pro 2. The M6 Ultra is a bit warmer, vibrant in its warmth, it’s dynamically charged and very well controlled. It just sounds great. The iBasso DX240 was okay but for whatever reason there was just a hint of extra sibilance. Nothing annoying but I did zero in on it.
What should you use?
I would use what you have. I certainly wouldn’t go out and buy a bunch of dongle dacs for this set. Use what you got. I do think, like most sets, a little more power does help to tighten everything up and a more sonically gifted set will definitely help. Of course! It would be weird if a better source didn’t help. Extra added power isn’t a necessity. If you have a decent Dongle Dac which has nice source tonality, then the ZSN Pro 2 will mimic that device and it’ll sound accordingly. Decent power will help.
Sound Impressions
I was very curious to see what the differences would be between the newer ZSN Pro 2 and the previous ZSN Pro. I was completely curious where KZ would go with the sound. If I’m being honest, I was a bit skeptical too. Is KZ looking to make a direct upgrade of the line? Would KZ simply switch up the tuning a bit, change the internal acoustic cavity, do this or do that, or would they put more research and development into actually designing a better driver? Turns out the latter is true. I know I’ve already gone over this but there was a substantial benefit from going with better and more quality drivers and crossover. It’s evident in the playback. Before I even get into this portion of the review, I want to get one thing out of the way. The fact that indeed this set is an upgrade from previous versions. This way I’m not comparing them for the whole review. Let’s get it out of the way. Also, please understand this review is over a $15 to $18 iem (depending on where you purchase it). Please keep that in mind when reading this. I may use strong descriptive words, but they are speaking on a budget. Yes, it is a good V-shaped sound, but I don’t want this to go unsaid.
True V-Shape
The ZSN Pro 2 is a V-shaped sounding set with a certain emphasis in the low-end and a clean bass output, the mids are recessed but only slightly and the treble is pronounced, bright and energetic. This is a true V with a nice dynamic balance. Meaning, the highest hill within the bass basically matches the tallest peaks in the treble region. There’s a nice dynamic balance there. The tonality or tonal color stays somewhat evened out between the pull & tug of both frequency divisions. The lows covered by the DD and the mids and highs covered by the BA.
Between the 20’s
Really quick I’ll cover each 3rd of the mix in the quickest and easiest to digest way that I can. The low-end can run deep and it can slam with nice impact. The bass is also very clean for its size with a hard leading edge on attack and a shorter than usual sustain. Note definition is great for $15 bass and it can bang folks. The midrange has only a slight bit of bleed from the bass with average note weight. Not juicy or plump. The mids are a bit forward with nice transparency and a crystalline note outline. Again, transients are rapid, agile, cleanly defined and not very organic. I suppose that is the downside, you will hear some BA timbre or some metallic type of timbre in this region. The highs have a healthy emphasis, and is pretty bright sounding. Possibly too bright for some. It’s very detailed and brings the entire mix up in levity and buoyancy. There is an actual treble bite, but it is somewhat lacking body. Very well extended too. All three areas of the mix are very well represented folks, again… for something costing $15. On top of that the stage is pretty wide. Technically, the ZSN Pro 2 has great detail retrieval almost across the mix. KZ did a nice job here for any fan of a V-shaped sound.
If this is all you read
If this is the furthest you make it in this review; first off, I understand, and second… you should have a pretty good gist of how it sounds. This set does not have the lushest note weight but has a nice timbre for a very low-priced set with a balanced armature. Perhaps a bit sibilant but much better than it is bad. The bass is really awesome to me. It hits with authority and has nice impact. Not to the point of basshead slam but what I enjoy is the streamline nature of the hard slam. The treble may be a bit too much for some of you. It can reach some serious brightness but it’s not out of control. The treble is clean with a technically astute approach. Honestly, this set is much better than I initially gave it credit for. At first, I did not like what I heard. It wasn’t until I spent quality time with it that I could see how nicely KZ did. How good the dynamic driver is and how clean the sound is for an ultra-budget iem.
Bass Region
I’ve already went over this in a chopped up and peanut sized portion, but the truth is, it is very agile and energetic. I find the note definition to be better than I’d expected. I hear good separation of the mid-bass and sub-bass with nice texture and a lean density to the note body.
Sub-bass
The sub-bass can reach relatively deep and the extension down low is nice to hear. This is evidenced by “Heavy is the Ocean” by Bush. The bass reaches deep levels with a fun rumble as it runs into the main verse. The ZSN Pro 2 is able to really dig deep. This is a track which has just gobs of bass and will sound resonant and bulbous on any set. However, I can tell the difference between a set which pretends to reach lower pitch and one that can actually do it. The ZSN Pro 2 is able to without going overboard.
I also feel-good haptic energy with a tactile and palpable boom on the track “2040” by Lil Durk. This song comes across with that focused booming energy and a tight transient delivery as I don’t hear that lagging sustain as I do on many sets. Again, the sub-bass reaches nice depths which is great for many genres but particularly house music, dubstep, drum n’ bass type, hip hop, r&b, edm. They all can make use of the sub-bass. Don’t get me wrong though, still not what I would call basshead sub-bass. It’s a bit more tactfully crafted with an obviously good driver that shows its skills in this area. Just like the next region…
Mid-bass
Yes, the mid-bass is also a highlight of the ZSN Pro 2. In fact, the bass as a whole may be the highlight for me. I love a big impact that is kept very tightly wound with a hard note outline, nothing fuzzy, not pillowy or plastic sounding. The ZSN Pro 2 gives me these depictions and does so in a non-bloated or muddy manner. The slope into the midrange is in a very good spot to keep the mid-bass intact with solid definition without suffocating the midrange or adding veil of any sort. It’s clean, with a hard layered attack and a relatively quick decay that doesn’t sound very atmospheric but does “hit it n’ git it”. I don’t want to over-dramatize this review of the bass though. Make no mistake it is very good for a budget set. Better than most in fact.
Good Bass
In the track “On Melancholy Hill” by the Gorillaz the song takes off with a deep and wide rolling bassline which covers almost all corners of the sound field. I really enjoy the fact that the ZSN Pro 2 is able to keep the small modulations in the beat in check as the wavy bass glides through the song. It’s a strong sound with an authoritative feel… but also it’s deep. Or a track like “Tornadoes” by Drive-By Truckers. The drums sound so well done with a nice rebounding attack that is very nice to the ear. I also enjoy the ZSN Pro 2 in the track “Feelin’ the Miles” by The Wilder Blue. You have successive drumbeats which coincide with a bass guitar riff, and both are pretty refined but also palpable and textured very well. This is a good bass folks. Again, not basshead but definitely boosted to the point that fans of good bass will enjoy it. The bass has great attack, or better said, the impact at the crest of a note has some urgency to it. There is a snap which is satisfying to me.
Downsides to the Bass Region
Without question the one big downside here is the quantity. That is the only downside in fact. Obviously not everyone wants a heavier bass and I completely understand that. I get a person who wants a bass that isn’t emphasized in this manner. It doesn’t matter how good and clean a big bass is, it’ll still get in the way sooner or later. So, I do get people who want a flatter style or laid back low-end. That isn’t me, but I get it. You could probably also say that another downside is that some folks like some more warmly weighted bleed into the mids. Some folks like that mid-bass traveling past 200hz while still in its decline. I know these folks. They like that very rich and very thick sound. The ZSN Pro 2 isn’t that.
Midrange
The midrange has a very “balanced armature-ish” sound to it. Meaning it isn’t the most organic I’ve ever heard. Definitely better than any BA I’ve heard at this low of a cost however, but still not perfectly natural sounding. As one would expect. That said, it also doesn’t mean that the timbre is a problem. It’s just different. I think the defining characteristic of this midrange is its clarity and resolution. You could also add in the transient swiftness into that equation too. The midrange isn’t thin as in dry and papery, but it isn’t the boldest in richness, which is to be expected also. We can’t have it all at the low cost of a McDonald’s lunch. Of course, some parts of the frequency will become a casualty to the other areas, and I find that in every earphone there’s some give and take. With the ZSN Pro 2 that take away is the note weight and organically warm timbre and smoothness. However, the midrange has enough qualities per the tuning to make it nice for what it is and for its price.
Lower-midrange
The low-mids don’t borrow very much warmth from the bass but there is a slightly warmer complexion than perfectly neutral in this area in particular. Male vocals hit my ear somewhat recessed, slightly pushed back, but they also hit my ear as defined and distinct. This is shown well in the track “Nothing Compares 2 U” by Chris Cornell (Sinead O’Conner cover). His voice is already very edgy and gruff, yet somehow, it’s also very melodic and emotional. Of course, the entirety of this song is all emotion. On the ZSN Pro 2 that gruff sound doesn’t get exaggerated to my ears. When his voice reaches those searing octaves that sound like a knife edged saw cut, the ZSN Pro 2 holds the edge quite well where other sets would come across grainier & coarser. Now, his voice isn’t perfectly smooth or natural either, as I’m sure you guessed. There is a sharp vibrance to his voice. Not bad by any stretch but a bit sharper than natural.
Low-mids cont…
Dermot Kennedy sings the song “Rome” in another emotionally charged bleeding heart type affair. I don’t think the ZSN Pro 2 is generally meant for tracks such as this, or a vocal like his. Yes, it replays the song just fine, but this track does require a bit thicker bravado and masculine energy. Please don’t take this as a rebuke though. It is not. I’m simply saying what I hear. Again, Dermot’s voice has a bit more vibrant energy rather than the warmly passionate richness that would likely serve this track a bit better. Then again, it’s likely that seven times out of ten; most people won’t even pay attention to this. The bonus is that his voice comes across as though it’s highlighted and with very good vocal clarity. This helps to add life to his sound.
Upper-Midrange
The upper mids showcase female vocals with some shimmer, some sparkles and with some added glitter, so to speak. Especially a track with a bit more treble glaze over it. Females in general are a hint more colorful, spirited, lively and transparent. This is a nice showing from a low-priced balanced armature which is a nod to the tuners at KZ and a huge benefit to the consumer. Still, you have to prefer this type of sound, that’s for sure. I feel the KZ ZSN Pro 2 is a good beginner iem for anyone wanting to try out a hybrid iem for the first time. You get a sense for the tonality and timbre type of a BA really well on this set. Albeit the ZSN Pro 2 can come across thin in this region. However, even with all of the zestiness of the upper-mid timbre, I still find that it’s oddly alluring and fun to listen to. A change of pace, if you will. Again, you have to prefer this type of sound as some songs can get somewhat hot and glaring with some intense sparkle. I don’t find it too intense but that’s me. That said, if you are the type who loves a warmer, even darker, or laid-back type of presentation then I may direct you somewhere else.
Clean & Precise
Females in this region sound very clean and precise to me at this low cost. There’re details that are much easier to discern from vocalists and instruments on this set (depending on the track), like breath in mics, lips scraping the microphone, the subtle stuff which would usually get ignored. Harmonics are nice though cut a little short with the transient swiftness. Check out Madison Beer in the track “Reckless”. Perhaps it’s a little too over-produced to sound authentic, but you can still make out lip smacks, breath etc. However, I actually find the tone & timbre of her voice very nice on this set too, which isn’t always the case with the ZSN Pro 2. In general, females sound fine, but they probably aren’t the bread and butter of this set. Thinner, more radiant than it is vivid and lush. Nicely detailed though.
Further thoughts on the midrange
You have to know what you are getting. This is a technically savvy set folks. Quick and dialed in micro-dynamic underlying shifts with rapid transients and a more exact note outline rather than a smoother sound. Instruments follow this same trajectory. The ZSN Pro 2 has a good enough balance across the mix which helps instruments to sound good enough. Percussion generally has a nicely abrupt and prompt impact with good energy. Cymbals have plenty of energy, snares pang with a good snap to them. The harmonics from any drums are fantastic on this set. Strings come through clear, clean, perky & resolute with all the finger slides, scrapes and plucks you’d ever want. Not perfectly natural but… $15. Most instruments follow this same pattern. Maybe a bit more lifted in tone, vibrant and without the organic decay of a DD, but nice for what it is.
Downsides to the Midrange
Speaking of downsides, the ZSN Pro 2 have a few. Like I’ve already beaten to death, the ZSN Pro 2 may come across not perfectly naturally. Are they bad? No, I don’t think so but simply not as organic as they could sound. The BA sounds like a BA. Of course, there is still a nice balance in the mix to alleviate some of the more vibrant timbre. Again, it’s a good change of pace set and great for a rookie hobbyist curious about hybrid iems. This set doesn’t have the lushest sounding mids either. The bass doesn’t exactly add much weight, although I wouldn’t outright call the midrange paper dry either. You’ll hear some sibilance as well, but it wasn’t nearly enough to bother me. Also, the upper mids can get a bit hot on some tracks. I feel all of these issues are small in comparison to the overall tuning as a whole. I feel KZ did a very nice job for the cost and have been enjoying this set.
Treble Region
The highs have a nicely extended range into the upper treble which does well to provide good info past 10k and also does well to give a sense of air to the sound. With an extension like this it provides a feeling of good width, openness, and separation. The treble is slightly more energetic than my exact tastes, maybe a bit too boosted. I can still enjoy the sound easily enough. Truthfully, I know many folks who prefer this type of energy. It’s pretty bright and nicely emphasized as the subtle brilliance is evident. I wouldn’t call it too far boosted though. I don’t want to give the wrong impression. This is not exactly a treble heads dream. Yes, the treble is boosted but not to the point of total dominance in the mix. There’s only a slight lean in the treble direction against the rest of the mix. Like I’ve said, KZ did a nice job creating a balance with the low-end, but this is a V-shaped sound. My exact taste may have a tad less treble energy, but I can respect what KZ was able to squeeze out if this set.
Sense of air
The treble is the type which is snappy enough and able to replay more complicated tracks. Something like “Way Back When” by The String Cheese Incident. The ZSN Pro 2 is easily able to hit every note with decent precision. I don’t think this will blow your mind or anything, it is a budget set after all. But the ZSN Pro 2 does so in good fashion like when adding levity and a sense of air to the song and doesn’t sound like a mishmash of treble sheen. Too often sets with boosted highs do come across with more of a smeared treble sound at these lower costs.
Another track I always use is “Bishop School” by Yusef Lateef. It’s another song which features a bunch of instruments and treble activity at different speeds and tonal shifts. The ZSN Pro 2 is able to capture each note as well as this poorly recorded song will allow. It may not be the most pristine sounding in the world, possibly a bit too energetic at times, slightly sibilant and a hair peaky too. However, it’s able to present each note with distinction (to a degree) and pretty good separation. The most interesting thing I’ve noticed I’ve already spoken about, and that is the air and openness which creates a wider stage which flattens the presence up top but also comes across pretty clean.
Snap & bite…
Most instrumentation up top has a relatively good snap and bite for a $15 iem. This is a treble which has equal parts smooth and crisp and mimics very well whatever the track is asking of this set. There are times which will sound a bit too tinny but those are few and far in between. At least that I’ve heard over the course of the last two weeks. For the most part I like the definition here. Percussion actually sounds pretty clean and the space present aids these types of fast twitch sounds to come across fairly well rounded, with respect to the price and other sets in this price point.
Downsides to the Treble Region
Everything about the treble has been pretty complimentary up to this point, but there will always be downsides to every set somewhere. Without question, the ZSN Pro 2 treble will be fatiguing to some folks. This is a brighter and more lustrous type of treble and not everyone is a fan of this type of enhanced V-shaped sound. It is a bit much and it does come with occasional sibilance too. Yes, this treble is pretty well able to replay almost anything you throw at it with fine details and separation. But… It’s just a bit too boosted for some folks. Those sensitive to treble will certainly want to keep looking. Those who enjoy a more rolled-off and non-offensive sound will want to keep looking. Still, we are talking about a $15 iem folks, and I do feel KZ squeezed about all they could out of these drivers. The bonus is that the highs on this set are very resolving, albeit not very natural sounding. In the grand scheme of things, the treble helps the ZSN Pro 2 to be a nicely well rounded iem.
Technicalities
Soundstage
The soundstage offers spatial awareness of the psycho-acoustic stage very well. We have a wide stage that is helped by the nice extension going both ways. It just sounds big. Now, it isn’t colossal and inordinately massive, but it is big. It’s open, separated, clean and there is a sense of air to the sound which adds to the auditory illusion. So, it’s decently wide with an average height to the stage. However, it is less deep than I’d like. Of course… $15. Somehow even with the slightly lacking depth there is still some layering happening. All together the stage is nice for the price.
Separation / Imaging
Separation of elements in an imaginary stage is nicely done. I find it hard for anything to really trip up this set. Obviously on hard metal tracks with a litany of blurred noises screaming in your ear hole the ZSN Pro 2 doesn’t separate very well. Of course, no set is perfect there. Or bass heavy tracks where the low-end is out of control. I would also add that nobody who is listening to bass heavy jams is concentrating on the separation of instruments and voices. However, for the most part everything sounds well-spaced, delineated and instruments are easy to discern. I wouldn’t say it is the best, but it is good for sure. Imaging follows suit with ease. Both left to right is great. The depth is again not perfect and a little 2D in presentation and so the ZSN Pro 2 does lack a bit there but that is a small negative. For instance, I find it easy to place a five-piece band on a stage and every element of that stage is where it is supposed to be. Not bad KZ.
Details
I don’t want to blow things out of proportion because I feel like my words make it sound like this set is a detail monster. Well, I suppose that’s because… it is. For the price that is. You will be very hard pressed to find anything under $25 that will resolve details better. That’s just the truth. For the price the ZSN Pro 2 is a very resolving and detailed set. There is space and openness, air to the sound, and quick transients with clean note edges. The stage is wide, nothing congested, the note weight is not heavy or thick. All of it helps this se to very a detail monster in its price point.
Comparisons
Hidizs MS1 Galaxy ($15)
The Hidizs MS1 is a single Dynamic Driver from the audio brand Hidizs which really caught many folks’ attention. I actually reviewed the MS1 (MS1 Review) earlier last year and gave it high marks for its musicality and fun sound signature. Certainly not a tech-heads dream but definitely an ear rumbling fun time. Also, this set is absolutely gorgeous! The MS1 has a 10.2mm PU+PEEK Composite Diaphragm Dynamic Driver and is a great entry into the budget space for Hidizs. An area they haven’t really occupied in the past. Many folks praised this set, but it certainly has a polarizing type tuning in that it is very low-end heavy, warm and rich in timbre. Quite a bit different then the ZSN Pro 2 I’m reviewing today. I used the MS1 for comparison only because so many folks know the sound which will better help me explain the ZSN Pro 2. Also, they are in the same price point.
Differences
For starters, the MS1 is an all plastic iem while the ZSN Pro 2 is half plastic in the shell and alloy on the faceplate. I wouldn’t hesitate to say that the ZSN Pro 2 is definitely built better. However, the MS1 is designed better. It is just plain and simple a better-looking set. To some anyways. Certainly, more imaginative. Some may like the diamond plate silver mirror finish of the ZSN Pro 2 better though and I wouldn’t argue that at all. Both sets come packaged the same, nothing to sing about. The MS1 is a bigger iem even with only one driver.
Sound Differences
Both sets have very different signatures. The MS1 is a warm and lush sounding L-shaped iem with a big bass, juicy midrange and laid-back treble. The ZSN Pro 2 is just like I’ve already covered, it’s a V-shaped set with much snappier and punchier down low with a bit more brightness up top and much more transient quick. The MS1 has a more musical and atmospheric sound altogether against the ZSN Pro 2’s technical and resolute sound. The bass on the MS1 is much deeper and enhanced. Quick for its size but nothing like the clean notes of the ZSN Pro 2. The MS1 is more along the lines of a basshead sound whereas the ZSN Pro 2 has a more detailed and separated sound down low. The midrange of the MS1 is thick, rich and has very nice tonality and organic timbre. The ZSN Pro 2 is thinner, with better clarity, more audiophile sounding with a brighter hue to the sound. It just sounds cleaner lined and lifted in tonality. The treble of the ZSN Pro 2 is brighter, more detailed and with better extension. The MS1 is relaxed, easy going, thicker in body but also a bit more congested in comparison. Both sets replay what their target is very well for the price. The MS1 is fun and rich, without fatigue and comes across with better musicality and a more emotionally drawn-out sound. The ZSN is much cleaner, much better separation across the mix, airier across the mix, with better note definition and a wider stage.
Further thoughts on this comparison
I always question my comparisons, because at the end of the day I want to help you. Does this set make sense for comparison. Well, it’s very difficult to find hybrid sets at this price. I have a zillion single DD’s, even Double DDs, but hybrids (besides the KZ Krila) are not easy to come by. This is a 100% preference battle. From the build to the look, to the sound. All the way across the board you will know in 5 seconds whether you would choose one over the other. Perfect preference battle sets. Each one playing to different factions in the consumer public. Honestly, it’s like this; if you want a fun and booming sound with a warm and lush timbre and a very melodic sound which doesn’t leave out the rest of the mix, and also much less technically astute, I’d say pick the MS1. Many of you would too. If you want a thinner timbre, more dialed in sound with focused and rapid transient attack & decay that will illuminate every detail within a track. Separated better, better imaging capabilities and a bigger and more immersive stage then pick the ZSN Pro 2. That’s about it. Also, if you’d rather have a first hybrid, or you have a love affair with this legendary series, than maybe you’d pick the ZSN Pro 2 for those reason as well.
KZ Krila ($24)
Ah, the KZ Krila. Basically, the ZSN Pro 2, before the ZSN Pro 2. Now this comparison is much closer in almost all categories. Almost. Now, the Krila also is a 1DD & 1BA hybrid set in the same price point. The Krila was a very well marketed (if that’s what we want to call it) ultra budget iem that has fantastic technical capabilities, a brighter sound and a beautiful build and design. Also, the Krila has the option to use dipswitches too. So, it’s a bit more versatile if say. I actually reviewed the Krila last year (Krila Review) and gave it decent marks. I thought it was good for what it was, but many would disagree with me. And on the reverse of that I found many who wholly agreed. That’s what we call “polarizing”. You either love it or… You don’t.
Differences
To start, the Krila is simply built better. In my opinion. Also, the Krila looks a lot better too. Again, my opinion. Just a sharp looking set that’s built like a tank. Almost all alloy and coming with four useful dipswitches the Krila looks like it should be priced about five times more. The ZSN Pro 2 is also built well but KZ had to keep the legendary housing. The faceplate is dope, but it isn’t the Krila. I actually like that it doesn’t have dipswitches, so that’s a win in my book. I’m kind of sick of those things. Both come packaged identically and both sets offer relatively the same sound signature. Again… Almost.
Sound Differences
There really isn’t a ton to talk about here. I suppose I could sum it all up by simply saying that the ZSN Pro 2 is a more refined and more timbre correct version of the Krila. Actually, that’s selling this comparison short. In truth, the ZSN Pro 2 has a cleaner and more authoritative bass that has better clarity in its separation. The ZSN Pro 2 has a better-defined note edge. The Krila isn’t bad here at all but simply not to the standard of the ZSN Pro 2. The midrange of the Krila offers a leaner portrayal of my music. It’s thinner, more metallic, more sibilance while the ZSN Pro 2 has better note clarity and isn’t as grainy. Also, vocals are better on the ZSN Pro 2 as they aren’t so oversaturated in vibrance. The treble of the Krila is splasher and has a more congested sound oddly enough. The ZSN Pro 2 has better extension into the upper treble with a more controlled approach and better body & bite. I find the ZSN Pro 2 also provides details a bit better due to a better balance in the mix, but both are very technically gifted.
My thoughts in this comparison
Folks, both sets sound very close to one another yet in my ears I hear an obvious upgrade in sound quality in the KZ ZSN Pro 2. The differences may not be as large as this comparison reads to a consumer (small differences might as well be a mile wide difference) but they are pretty substantial in the grand scheme of things. The ZSN Pro 2 sounds like one of those incremental improvements that I was talking about at the beginning of this review. That’s the way KZ does their thing. Everyone wins. I don’t have a ton more to say other than, unless you thoroughly enjoy the look and the dipswitches of the KZ Krila, then I do believe the ZSN Pro 2 is the better set. I never say that in a comparison either. Both are good for what they are, but I feel one edges the other out.
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 ZSN Pro 2 ratings below, that would be $10-$25 iems of any driver configuration. 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. $10-$25 US is a decent sized scope of iems and so seeing a 9 should probably be pretty special. My ratings are never the same and each set of ratings tells a different story. Each time you read one of my ratings it will be unique to that review. Basically, I create a Rating that makes sense to me and hopefully to the reader.
Aesthetic
-Build Quality: 9.0 Built well but nothing out of the ordinary.
-Look: 8.5 Very nice looking set.
-Accessories: – – Accessories don’t matter at this price
–Overall: 8.75
Sound Rating
-Timbre: 7.2 Some BA timbre but good.
-Bass: 9.5 The bass is fantastic.
-Midrange: 8.1 A bit thinner but good, some BA timbre.
-Treble: 8.9 Great extension, very detailed
-Technicalities: 9.5 Detail monster for this price.
-Musicality: 7.3 Musicality isn’t its bread & butter.
–Overall: 8.4🔥🔥🔥
Ratings Summary:
Looking at the ratings above, the KZ ZSN Pro 2 is pitted against any set between $10 and $25 dollars. There are quite a number of iems in this range and so an overall sound rating (my opinion) of an “8.4” is very high. It isn’t a normal occurrence to create a V-shaped set at such a low cost that has this much control and cleanliness. When rating this set, I have to do it through the lens of a $15 to $20 iem and with that in mind, I probably didn’t rate this set high enough in some areas. Of course, that’s up for debate but I do feel that if the ZSN Pro 2 sound signature agrees with your preferences then you will certainly understand where I’m coming from. Or not.
What is “musical” anyways?
There really isn’t much to summarize here. The “bass” and “technicality” ratings are the highest marks I gave this set and I stand by those ratings. Both with a lofty “9.5” and both deserve that mark. I could see some folks disagreeing with the bass category, possibly. Maybe “Musicality” will be another area where people disagree with me also. I mean, how do you rate musicality in an iem? It “is” or “isn’t” musical. Next it begs the question, what is “musical” anyways? Who determines this confounding attribute? Folks, please hear me, we are so ridiculous in this hobby. We’ve invented terminology that makes no sense. Truly. I could sit here and list so many words or terms that we use which are questionable at best. Yet we use them as though it is fact. So please take my words as a grain of salt. Also, just like any reviewer, I try my best to help you get it right. I say all that to say this, if any of you argue any rating above… You are right. This is a hobby where everyone is always right because it is the most subjective hobby of them all. I feel the ZSN Pro 2 is justified at an “8.4” and I’m sticking to it.
Is it worth the asking price?
I have talked about the fact that the KZ ZSN Pro 2 is a sort of polarizing type set. Not everyone is going to enjoy the sound. However, the answer to this question isn’t for people who “don’t” enjoy this type of signature, it’s for those who “do”. Those who don’t align with the ZSN Pro 2 obviously won’t feel that $15 is worth their money and very likely aren’t reading this right now. So, this is for the folks who are considering this set. Yes, how could this set not be worth the extremely low price that KZ opted to put it at. Did I mention this set is $15? I actually saw it yesterday for $13. That’s a little silly folks. Um… yeah… the KZ ZSN Pro 2 is worth every penny. I took my daughter to McDonald’s the other day and for two the bill came to $28. So basically, you can have years of joyfully listening for a one-time payment equal to that of McDonald’s for one. Is this the best set in the price point? C’mon, there are no “best” sets. Is it a good set if it perfectly aligns with a person’s preferences? I don’t even think I need to say it but, yeppers!
The Why…
First off, the ZSN Pro 2 is built very well. As with every KZ set it is built with hard plastics which don’t feel cheap and a nice alloy faceplate with a bomb looking silver mirror finish and a blue diamond plate pattern. It looks like a baby KZ ZAT. I thought the ZAT looked dope so, of course this set does too. However, as with every time I ever answer this question the real value is in the price compared to the sound. The ZSN Pro 2 is a very clean and clear sounding V-shaped budget iem that has some wicked good bass. It’s deep, hits hard and stays in perfect control. I didn’t emphasize enough how nice the bass is in the body of this review. The midrange is very resolute with great spacing, spatial imaging is very nice, there are so many details in the sound as well. However, I grew to really enjoy this slightly leaner profile and the way the ZSN Pro 2 pushes vocals. Not bad for $13. Also, the treble has nice control, illuminates all the subtleties within a track, great separation and fantastic extension for the price point. Beyond each 3rd of the mix, I’d also reinforce how technically sound this set is for the price. It’s good. Is the ZSN Pro 2 a set which punches above its price? I can’t answer that, but I will say that it does very well against many sets in the price point.
Conclusion
To conclude my full written review of the KZ ZSN Pro 2, I want to thank KZ for sending this set in exchange for a full written review as well as a feature at mobileaudiophile.com. Like I said I am developing a pretty extensive history with this brand. They have never once asked me to speak favorably about their iems, or skew my words. They’ve never asked to pre-read my review and they have never tried to offer me any money. I have not had a great time with every set I’ve had over the years but yet I’ve never heard a peep from KZ. They keep sending units and I gladly speak my truth about them. So, thank you KZ.
Lil brain burn helped
I have had an eye-opening time with this set folks. If I’m being perfectly honest, I expected nothing great. I really mean that. Brain burn helped a lot and all of a sudden, I am enjoying the sound as I had them in my ears past my critical listening time. You have to know what you are getting with this set though. This is a slightly fatiguing sound and there is some treble glare in the right tracks. I feel it is worth it and not a constant issue. You’ll also hear some sibilance too. However, it isn’t even something I’d label a “problem”. I hear a very technical set yet with some great and fun bass. It is a great look at a V-shaped sound for a very low price.
Other Perspectives
I want to thank you for reading this review. Now, go and read, listen to, or watch other reviews from other folks. Possibly they can enlighten you further about the sound. It is very good to hear all the perspectives that you can. I like thi ls set and feel KZ nailed the spirit of the ZSN line. However, the next person may wholly dislike the sound altogether and so it’s good to understand why. We are all very much different. In many ways. From our musical libraries, sources, preferred sound signatures to our journey through audio. So please check other folks’ reviews as well. This is to help you and to give me a creative outlet doing something that I love. Please take care, stay as safe as possible and always…God Bless you!
