Can a budget-friendly IEM truly compete with flagship models? Does the KZ ZS12 Pro X deliver audiophile-grade sound quality? Is this the ultimate value-for-money earphone?
These KZ ZS12 Pro X IEMs boast a powerful combination of a 10mm dynamic driver and three balanced armatures.
This unique setup delivers audio quality that surpasses Hi-Fi standards, making it a top choice for both professional musicians and demanding audio enthusiasts.
Each frequency range – low, mid, high, and ultra-high – is handled by a dedicated driver.
The dynamic driver takes care of the low and mid frequencies, delivering powerful bass and a natural transition to the mid-range, which adds depth and atmosphere to your music.
The balanced armature drivers excel in the high frequencies, offering exceptional detail and clarity thanks to their fast response and compact size.
Unlike traditional single balanced armatures, the 31736 is a unique design featuring two balanced armatures working together.
Balanced armatures are renowned for their sensitivity and accurate frequency response, particularly in the mid to high range.
The ZS12 Pro X includes two sets of these advanced 31736 balanced armatures, along with a dedicated mid-range balanced armature (30019).
This powerful combination delivers exceptional detail and clarity in the high frequencies.
The KZ ZS12 Pro X features a cutting-edge super-linear dynamic driver that delivers powerful, accurate bass.
This advanced technology captures every nuance of the music, bringing the artist’s emotion and detail to life.
From deep, rumbling drums to rich basslines, you’ll experience a truly immersive listening experience that feels like a live performance.
Uncover every sonic detail with the KZ ZS12 Pro X. These in-ear monitors deliver unparalleled sound resolution, capturing the finest nuances of your music.
From the whisper-soft highs to the deepest lows, you’ll experience a level of clarity and precision that will immerse you in every track.
Packaging and Contents.
The KZ ZS12 Pro X IEMs come packaged in a white sleeved box which shows a product image and printed specifications.
The box measures 9.3cm x 7.2cm x 3.0cm and weighs 75G.
Inside the box you’ll find the following: 1x Pair of IEMs, 1x Cable, 1x Pair of Memory Foam Tips, 3x Pairs of Silicone Tips, 1x Pin, 1x Chinese/English User Guide.
The ear tips measure (approximately):
- Small (Silicone): 8.3mm high x 9.3mm diameter.
- Medium (Silicone): 8.6mm high x 11.8mm diameter.
- Large (Silicone): 9.3mm high x 12.6mm diameter.
- Memory Foam Tips: 9.2mm high x 12.4mm diameter.
The silicone ear tips feature a multi groove design, this is to enable a small amount air/background noise to blend in with your audio and prevent that uncomfortable bone conduction feeling.
I actually prefer the Silicone ear tips over the polyurethane memory foam tips, they fit comfortably.
The foam tips are ideal for a more immersive experience.
KZ ZS12 Pro X IEMs.
Each KZ ZS12 Pro X IEM measures 23.5mm x 21.4mm x 26.2mm and weigh 12.4G. They certainly do weigh more than other IEM’s around, but I prefer a more weighty IEM, but if you’re after lightweight, then these IEM’s aren’t for you.
The KZ ZS12 Pro X boasts a robust zinc alloy shell, precision-crafted for durability and a premium feel. Its sleek finish is achieved through a double-layer electroplating process, ensuring it not only looks great but also stands up to daily wear and tear.
The supplied cable measures approximately 122cm in length. A high-purity silver-plated copper cabling ensures minimal signal loss, delivering pristine audio quality. This enhances sound clarity and detail, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your music.
But, I’m going to say it right now, I don’t like the supplied cable, it feels rigid, cheap and reminds me of fibre-optic.
You get a TRS (Tip Ring Sleeve) gold-plated 3.5mm angled jack plug. I prefer an angled plug, so this is ideal.
Tuning Switches.
You may have noticed the 4 tuning switches located on each IEM. The ZS12 Pro X features customisable 4-position tuning switches, allowing you to tailor the sound to your exact preferences.
Whether you’re a music lover or a professional, you can fine-tune the audio to create an immersive listening experience unlike any other.
I’ll give 5 examples below of what you can do with each tuning switch setting, to set a switch setting, use the supplied pin and push a switch to the on position.
You’re free to play about with all the different combinations, perfect for the audiophile, but for everday users, leave them all in the off position, and you’ll be just as happy.
Comfort and Sound Quality.
The KZ ZS12 Pro X IEMs fit incredibly comfortable in both your inner ear, and outer ear with the looped over-ear cable.
With prolonged use I didn’t notice any fatigue or uncomfortable heat issues, the weight of the IEMs don’t make for an uncomfortable listening experience at all.
Now, the sound quality. Well, what can I say?…only…erm…THEY SOUND BRILLIANT!
Certainly one of the, if not the best IEMs I’ve had the pleasure of using whilst doing this reviewing job.
With exceptionally low distortion, the ZS12 Pro X faithfully reproduces every sonic nuance.
From the deepest bass to the most delicate treble, it delivers an incredibly accurate and lifelike soundstage.
Immerse yourself in music as the artist intended.
I also noted no lag between audio/lip sync if you’re watching video too.
The KZ ZS12 Pro X boasts a meticulously engineered acoustic profile that delivers exceptional sound clarity and balance across the entire frequency spectrum.
These headphones punch well above their weight, offering audiophile-grade performance without the premium price tag.
Technical Specifications.
- Brand: KZ
- Model: ZS12 Pro X IEMs
- Manufacturer Code: N/A
- Manufacturer Reference: N/A
- EAN: 6970493063575
- ASIN: B0D7RBGC8P
- Frequency: 20-40000Hz
- Sensitivity: 106dB/mW@1KHz
- Impedance: 25Ω
- Pin Type: 0.75mm
- Plug Type: 3.5mm
- Cable Type: Silver-plated cable
- Compliance: CE, RoHS
Conclusion.
The KZ ZS12 Pro X IEMs are a revelation in the realm of affordable audio. It’s an audio product that defies expectations, delivering a sonic performance that often eclipses its price point.
The intricate interplay of its dynamic driver and balanced armatures results in a soundstage that is both expansive and detailed, offering a listening experience that is as engaging as it is accurate.
The inclusion of customisable tuning switches is a masterstroke, granting users unparalleled control over their audio preferences.
While the bundled cable could be improved, it hardly detracts from the overall package.
What truly sets the ZS12 Pro X apart is its ability to cater to a wide range of musical tastes.
Whether you’re immersed in the complexities of classical music, the raw energy of rock, or the delicate nuances of jazz, these IEMs deliver with precision and passion.
It’s a product that not only satisfies but astonishes, proving that exceptional audio quality need not come with a premium price tag.
The KZ ZS12 Pro X IEMs are more than just a pair of earphones; it’s a statement of intent from a manufacturer pushing the boundaries of affordable audio excellence.
If you’d like to purchase this item, please check out the purchasing options below. The RRP for this item is £54.19.
Keephifi | Amazon Best Option | eBay |
Product sample provided by Keephifi in exchange for a detailed, unbiased review.
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