Kiwi Ears - Airoso

Of all the IEMs I have, for some reason, the one I like the most is the Aful Explorer. I also have the Kefine Klean, Kefine Delci Ae, Sivga Que, Kiwi Ears Airoso, Lesthouer S08, Simgot EW300, Hidizs MP143, and MP145. All of these IEMs have a somewhat neutral, warm signature, but they all have excellent, very different sounds. I recommend the Aful Explorer, it's the best without a doubt. I won't tell you about the Hidizs MP145 because they're too big and can have adjustment problems if you have a narrow ear canal. Another thing I recommend is that you play with different types of cables and eartips, they can make a difference.

Under 50$: Tanchjim Zero Ultima DSP, KZ Saga Under 100$: Sliivo SLA3, Letshuoer S12/Artti T10, Kiwi Ears Airoso, Under 200$: Kiwi Ears Aether It is really hard not to love these!!

You might want to check out the Kiwi Ears Airoso. One reviewer said, “It takes everything great about the KE4 and refines it, adding better control, enhanced layering, and an airier, more spacious presentation” I can’t personally confirm the comparison because I haven’t heard the KE4, but I do have the Airoso and really like it. And they’re cheaper than the KE4. MSRP is $130 but they can be found on sale on Amazon for $81.

I was almost tempted into getting them a couple of times due to all the hype, but then I’d see just enough comments about the bass being lacking or the treble being shrill and/or unnatural that I’d back off. I’d still like to hear them one day to see if I’d be one that would love them or hate them, but I pretty much decided they would not be a safe blind buy, unless maybe I stumbled onto an unbelievably bargain price or something. I recently got the new Airoso, though, and was comfortable enough to go into that one blind based on the reviews.

That might work. It has two dynamic drivers in isobaric configuration for better bass. You might also check out the newer Kiwi Ears Airoso. It also has great bass but would have better highs. It has an MSRP of $129 but goes on sale for under $100.

Looks like a good roundup. I have both the Kiwi Ears Quartet and Airoso among others. The Airoso is my current favorite, but I don’t listen to the same kind of music you do so I can’t speak to its suitably for that type of music.

Kefine Delci AE is tuned a little better than the OG Delci, IMHO. The new Kiwi Ears Airoso is a great alternative, especially for gaming, as it has better treble extension than both the Delci or the EW300. Personally i am NOT a fan of the EW300. I think its overhyped. And if it doesnt agree with your ear anatomy, it sounds "off". Myself, Jaytiss, and Tone Deaf Monk all experienced this problem. As do plenty of others in many HiFi Forums.

The Delci's have warmer bass presentation. Where as the Airoso has a faster more tactile bass presentation. By that i mean the bass on the Airoso does not get that lush subwoofer feeling to it. Because the Airoso leans so heavily on the BA's in the treble and mids, that faster bass actually nicely tunes the DD to the BA's, giving them good matched tonality. When you look at an IEM like the Tangzu Fudu (another favorite of mine), the bass can sometimes present as being bloated, just because the decay speeds between the BA's and DD are so different. You really feel like the DD is pulling duty as a subwoofer. So, the Fudu feels like a small bookshelf speaker with a 12" subwoofer, where as the Airoso feels like a full tower, full range, speaker. So while the Airoso does have a tendency to make some bass notes feel a little dry. This is really only an issue if you are listening to something like Jazz or Big Band, where notes from an upright String Bass are prominent in the mix, and the bass plucks loose some of that natural warmth because they fade out a little quicker than our ear might hear it naturally. So, while it is accurate to the recording, the timbre can feel a little dry and clinical in some songs, if you are used to hearing them a certain way. Which is something people new to Planars often experience for the same reason too, the speed of the driver can make it feel less natural sometimes. That being said, if you predominantly listen to EDM, or any kind of electronically produced bass, like from a Roland 808, they are perfectly capable of replicating the rolling bass notes, and really replaying the bass notes with authority, provided the song is mixed for them to play that way. So in the right songs, sometimes the bass of the Airoso feels more impactful than the Delci, because it can really dig out some of the texture of very low sub bass frequencies, in a way the Delci cant. Overall, the Delci is going to have generally warmer tonality, and timbre, and represent a subjectively "better" bass presentation for most music types. Owning all three, musically, i will go for my Delci AE with the Gold Nozzle, and for gaming, or YouTube videos, i will go with the Airoso. And as a lot of my music is Popo and EDM based tracks, it works fine. I might consider something different than those two if i wanted to listen to metal or classic rock, because i think they fall on either end of where you want an IEM for that kind of music. Comfort wise, i have no complains with either. I regularly sleep with my Delci's in, because they have a very thin profile, and they disappear into my ear. The Airoso is a little thicker, so its not a sleepable IEM. But I have no issues with all day comfort with either. They fit my ear very well. As always, make sure you use the right tips, and try every tip you have available to you for the best seal, comfort, and tonality. Tip selection is SUPER important. Sorry if thats an overwhelming amount of data, but i hope that helps.

KiwiEars Airoso. Get it while its still under $100. >Truthhear Gate, Tanchjim Bunny, and KZ Klean for a blind buy or the Truthhear Hexa, Truthhear Nova and Letshouer 12 Pro (but my friend said the 12 Pro has weird bass) Gate = No. Plastic shell resonates. Feels like garbage. People that love the gate, i question all of their listening tastes. Bunny = Fantastic. Probably one of the best $20 IEM's available. The USB DSP and app make it more fun. KZ Klean = Uh... Kefine Klean, maybe? Kefine Klean is a great choice at $50. But i think the Inawaken Dawn is better. Hexa = Good, but very dull to someone who is new to the hobby, and used to V shaped tunings (i.e. boosted bass and treble, Hexa is very flat) Nova = Tuned to the popular Harmon Curve. Which is very V shaped. THe Simgot SuperMix4 is a common alternative. S12 Pro = Planar. Fantastic IEM. BUT...and this is probably why your buddy said ti had "weird bass", it will require you to use a higher powered Dongle DAC/Amp, because Planars need a lot of power to push around. If you underpower them, they sound muddy, thuddy, and dead. With enough power, they have amazing tactility and speed. But they do suffer from a somewhat metalic timbre that can be off putting to some people, as they are not "natural" sounding. But very fun. Overall, like i said, i think the KiwiEars Airoso is your best bet. It is a hybrid IEM that plays very clean, provides tons of detail, and bass when you need it. And seems to play about every genre of music you throw at it, without feeling like its lacking. Its not a neutral tuning, but it plays naturally. If that makes sense?

I think your preferences would be far better served by something like the KiwiEars KE4, or the also new Ziigaat Odyssey. As your preference with Fan3 would indicate you like that later JM1 style upper mids Pina Gain. An out of left field alternative would be the AFUL Performer 5. Or possibly the Performer 5+2 (or Performer 7 as some people call it). Personally the Performer 5 is a little brighter, which leans more towards the Fan3, but the 5+2 has a little more clinical detail up top. And way out in super right field, is the KiwiEars Airoso, it might be a little too U shaped for proper monitor use. But it is very clean in the upper mids and treble, and has excellent detail. There really isnt anything i have found that the Airoso cant play well. And for the current sub-$100 price, it punches WAY above its price target. Not that you came here looking for advice, buuuuttt...its interesting to get some alternative perspectives. https://audioamigo.squig.link/?share=Ziigaat_Lush,Ziigaat_Cinno,Ziigaat_Odyssey,Penon_Fan_3_BC_Off,Kiwi_Ears_KE4,AFUL_Performer_5,Kiwi_Ears_Airioso

For your preference, i would look at the Kefine Delci AE, or the KiwiEars Airoso (provided its still available under $100). Both offer fantastic bass impact, and solid treble details, that translate well to gaming. I would also consider getting the Fosi DS2 USB Dongle for using with your phone and PC. The measurements for it are stellar, very neutral, maintains good musicality, and clarity for gaming. And the price is excellent.

Kiwi Ears Airoso Kiwi Ears Aether Aoshida E60 (flat head) Cables and others - 5x NiceHCK cables, 1x ZiSin cable, Angelears AE301 dongle, Drop BMR1 speakers, Audioengine S8 subwoofer

# Review Of The Kiwi Ears Airoso https://preview.redd.it/wyy2zu6tthme1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=cda5749d31d7ef3fab0bfa8a4335a3a3997a4cc7 **Introduction** https://preview.redd.it/jvgefkfrthme1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=ed661a51c41bbd9b27e3a3e2299513532543cd92 Another year brings a plethora of novel and captivating products from Kiwi Ears. It appears that Kiwi Ears are expanding their expertise beyond In-Ear Monitors (IEMs) and Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs)/Amplifiers. Despite their well-established reputation and substantial following, this renowned company has ventured into the Bluetooth and Headphones domains. Their entry into the true wireless open-ear TWS market with Kiwi Ears Attiva and their first headphone, the Kiwi Ears Division, which I recently reviewed and thoroughly enjoyed, marked a significant milestone. Since then, they have introduced a range of headphones, including the Ellipse and Atheia models, as well as Bluetooth headphones such as the Ardor and Aventus. In between these releases, they unveiled a new IEM called the Airoso, which serves as their budget-friendly mid-range option. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to try it out. However, before delving deeper into the review, I’d like to clarify a few points.  **Disclaimer** \*Since this unit tour was organised by the kindly people at Linsoul, I am grateful to them. As I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this [link](https://www.linsoul.com/products/kiwi-ears-airoso).  \*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone. \*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “Airoso.” \*I am using different ear-tips for convenience and better versatility. \*Finally, I will only evaluate the Airoso based on its performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically. \*Please understand that all opinions expressed in this review are my personal perspective and are not intended to offend anyone’s beliefs or experiences. Therefore, I kindly request a respectful and thoughtful approach to this review, even if it differs from your viewpoint. **Specification** https://preview.redd.it/9oi1irzmthme1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=798800beb8164fc818470e24865422669f5f56d6 Airoso offers a generic configuration that was once a standard in the IEM market around this price range. However, this configuration became outdated when micro planar, planar, and bone conduction drivers emerged. The Airoso is a multi-driver hybrid setup with a 1 LCP+PU composite diaphragm dynamic driver for the bass, two balanced armature drivers for the highs, and two more balanced armature drivers for ultra-highs. While the balanced armatures are not specified, the dynamic drivers are also not detailed. The shells are made of skin-friendly high-quality resin which is black in colour, shaped to provide an ergonomic fit. I personally found a good seal and fit with the stock tips, and the earphones are quite light, causing no fatigue or pain even after extended listening sessions. And because the shells are incredibly lightweight, I didn’t experience any discomfort or fatigue after listening to my playlist for hours on end with these. The faceplate is made of CNC machined titanium and aluminum alloy, giving it a silverish-gray shade. It features kiwi ears in a black space vertically in the center of the faceplate, raised with a small vent below the engraved Kiwi Ears. The nozzle is also made of metal and is averagely sized with a decent length. I believe the stock tips will fit most people comfortably. The included cable is a generic black cable with a 3.5mm termination plug and two pin connectors that Kiwi Ears offers with most of their IEMs. While the cable is adequate for the price, it could be improved. However, Kiwi Ears does provide eartips in three different types and sizes. In addition to the cable and eartips, a vegan leather case is included in the packaging. Technically, the Airoso has an impedance of 15 Ohms and a sensitivity of 105dB. The frequency response range is from 20Hz to 20kHz. **Sound** https://preview.redd.it/qesgbu6gthme1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=7527f9f844ab9b79fbaf363fd187f7209f9ee404 Airoso delivers a neutral sound signature with a surprising emphasis on the sub bass. This unexpected focus makes it more engaging and enjoyable than most IEMs tuned for such a response. The tuning reminds me of the Simgot EM6L, a detailed and perfectly tuned IEM that lacked vibrancy and wow factor for some audiophiles. However, the Airoso excels in delivering that punch and engagement that one would expect. Honestly, the response on the graph appears generic. The treble is elevated more than it should be tonally, but the control over exposing the nuances is exceptional. I find it well-tuned. The same can be said about the bass. In the midrange, the vocals have a forwardness and expressive aura that I’ll elaborate on later. It’s a detailed and packed IEM that offers clarity and excitement. Let’s explore the sound further to uncover more details.  **Treble** When it comes to the treble, the mix is well-expressed and forward-sounding, whether it’s the instruments or the vocals. Most notes are present and clear, with a sharp and tactile quality that doesn’t go overboard. The upper treble region has good emphasis, creating an airy and spacious feel. The vocals sound complete and full, but with a slight lean quality. The response is tonally favorable, and the notes are detailed and clear, adding a shimmer and sparkle to the mix that’s noticeable. The lower treble region has the same energy and forwardness, bringing everything to life. The vocals and instruments have a more prominent response, making everything sound vibrant. While this forwardness isn’t tacky or overpowering, it effectively projects the presentation, whether it’s the vocals or the instruments. Tracks like “Mizukagami no Sekai” by Marina Horiuchi sound majestic without any tinny or sibilant sounds. Her vocals and instruments sound tonally right and airy, drawing the listener’s attention to each note over the spectrum. “Everywhere” by Fleetwood Mac also sounds sparkly and shimmery at the beginning of the track, without any offensive characteristics. The vocals and instruments are equally prominent, and with the airy space across the presentation, the vocals sound magical. Overall, the treble region presents a vibrant, detailed, and well-expressed presentation.  **Mid Range** So, when it comes to the mid-range, it’s addictive and forward-sounding, with a focus on the vocals. The timbre is slightly metallic but delivers good tonality and sounds airy and fresh. It’s one of the best mid-range qualities I’ve heard at this price point. The upper mid-range has great energy that resonates with the lower treble, creating a forward-sounding mix with more heft and weight in the notes. Especially with female vocals, the instruments have a bit of bite and zing but are in the background yet prominent enough to engage the listener. Another great aspect is the refreshing and spaciousness it offers. The vocals are clear and prominent, while the instruments complement them without any peakiness or shoutiness. The lower mid-range sounds a bit subtle and less prominent in the mix, despite delivering a good amount of heft and weight. The vocals and instruments sound clean and revealing, which is surprising for a rich and dynamic-sounding set. The vocals and instruments in this region provide good clarity, making the overall response sound vivid and on point. For example, listening to “Kokoranashi” by Majiko sounds very revealing and prominent in the mix, especially the female vocals, which usually sound dull but wholesome. The vocals bring more clarity and revelation, making it a more interesting track to listen to. The guitars and drums sound snappy and well-resolved. Similarly, listening to “Somebody That I Used To Know” by Gotye sounds playful and engaging, bringing out the vocals to sound enigmatic and clear. Overall, the mid-range region is revealing, clear, and forward-sounding.  **Bass** The bass, unlike its representation on the graph, sounds well-controlled with clear details and texture. Like the treble, it’s tuned very well, with impactful and distinctive aspects that provide a clean and detailed presentation with a punchy and dynamic quality. The emphasis is on the sub-bass region, which brings out a subtle rumble in the mix that rattles a bit in the ear canals. However, the punches have a good amount of impact, helping to produce a powerful response with good note weight in the mix. On the other hand, the mid-bass lacks the slam and thumps that could have added more fun. However, from an overall perspective, the clarity and clean presentation I understand. It doesn’t mean that the mid-bass doesn’t have enough meat; the bass notes are easily noticeable and prominent in the mix, but that heft isn’t very well expressed. Listening to tracks like “Frontiers” by Awitch sounds powerful, especially when the kick drops. The notes have good heft and presence, bringing clarity and resolution. However, the delivery isn’t very forwarded and more weighty, unless a part emphasized with bass comes in. On the other hand, listening to “Are You the Only One Now?” by Zeal & Ardor sounds surprisingly expressive. The bass notes have proper prominence, effortlessly heard in the mix. They’re distinctive and clean-sounding, adding more characteristics to the overall presentation of the track. Overall, the bass region is well-controlled, punchy, and detailed.  **Technical Performance** https://preview.redd.it/ba0h5203thme1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=cac4883156293f1163ec26c933a194681f007412 Coming to the technical aspects, I believe the Airoso excels in its overall presentation compared to its competitors. The most noticeable aspects that emerge immediately after using these are the attention to detail, clarity, and separation. Let’s delve deeper into these aspects. **Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation** When it comes to the stage, the presentation is holographic, offering exceptional depth, width, and a sense of airiness and spaciousness. The imaging is sharp and precise, providing remarkable clarity and a deeper comprehension of each note. Additionally, the separation of the notes is evident, making it effortless to pinpoint the source of each sound.  **Speed & Resolution** The resolution is excellent, as both the macro and micro details are effectively conveyed in the mix, which is quite uncommon in an IEM within this price range. The rapid attack and decay of the notes contribute to maintaining a clean and clear sound. The resolution is truly remarkable.  **Sound Impressions**  **Sources** https://preview.redd.it/xq4zze11thme1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=0939005dae5b42e5b89d51323e86cf1dd6a06115 **Sony WM1A -** While listening to the Airoso with the WM1A, the response sounds more balanced. The vocals are slightly tamed and richer in sound. There’s a hint of warmth and elevated lower mid-range and mid-bass that adds the missing heft, making it sound closer to a whole-sounding. The treble sounds smoother than detailed but brings all elements to the same level, contributing to the balanced sound. This rich and balanced sound makes it more favorable and easily a safe pairing.  https://preview.redd.it/rsofi1qzshme1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=31772bd25c712c97246a5c3cc89d3ae4b3e0848d **FiiO M15S -** While listening to the Airoso with M15S, the response emphasizes every region of the music, bringing everything forward in a well-controlled manner. The treble sounds sparkling and vibrant, while the vocals and instruments are both well-expressed in the mix, creating a very engaging and interesting presentation. The bass is more prominent in the mix but is controlled with punchier and better-textured notes. With a detailed exposure, it does draw the listener’s attention. **Tracks** Millet - Anytime Anywhere Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness  Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental  Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo Uru - Kamihitoe Kujira Yumemi - Kenka Majiko - Kokoronashi Anly - Sukinishinayo  Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope   Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders Valentino Khan - Satellite  Kai Wachi - Happier By Now Jawns - Erotica ISOxo - how2fly Kai Wachi - Happier By Now Weeknd - Popular YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High) Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid Middle Kids - Bend FLETCHER - Leads Me On Loathe - Aggressive Evolution The Weeknd - Save Your Tears Sigrid - Burning Bridges AURORA - Black Water Lilies AURORA - Runaway X Ambassadors - Renegades Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know Jay-Z - Run This Town Lady Gaga - Poker Face Lady Gaga - Just Dance Ladytron - Ghost Travis - Love Will Come Through LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix) Hoobastank - The Reason Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care Tool - 7empest Tool - Vicarious A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song Zack Hemsey - Vengeance Elton John - I’m Still Standing The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin Micheal Sembello - Maniac  Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun **Conclusion** https://preview.redd.it/7lg1fiqxshme1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=54455a723c85f79e84904bcd61effe8c39c38aab Airoso delivers a remarkably detailed and revealing response, and in my opinion, it stands out as one of the best options in the $100-$150 price range. Its tuning leans towards vibrancy and engagement, even though it maintains a neutral sound with a sub bass boost. This is truly an exceptional achievement by Kiwi Ears. I have no doubt that if given the opportunity, it will deliver exceptional sound performance, especially if you’re seeking a neutral and well-expressed sound across the treble, mid-range, and bass frequencies. However, I would suggest that treble sensitive people might want to try it out before committing to a purchase. Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend the Kiwi Ears Airoso.

Hi and thanks for the amazing write up, I feel like I’ve learnt a ton from reading it! Sorry to butt in with a noob question, but when you say “EQ’ing up to a graph,” does this mean doing it with a headphone measurement coupler? Or is this something you do by ear? I fell into this rabbit hole after attempting to EQ my Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW2s to not sound like a puddle of mud and haze (read: Harman target because that’s all I knew of at the time). I managed to successfully do it with sine sweeps, and then some refinement purely by intuition and A/B tests with my Linkbuds S with AutoEQ. Essentially, I’m just wondering if this method you’re talking about is something I can do, or if I should just stick to sine sweeps+pink noise (I’m gonna have to look into the pink noise). And in case you’re wondering how I ended up on this subreddit, I’m now the proud owner of a set of 7hz Zeros and Kiwi Ears Airosos :) Edit: And yeah, I was genuinely shocked at the result I got with the SQ1s after about few sessions of tweaking and listening. They’re quite an enjoyable pair of earbuds now, with some oddly satisfying details that I can hear without all the haze

I've tried planars and basshead sets so far! Kiwi Ears Aether, Letshuoer S08, Kiwi Ears Airoso, KZ Decet, CCA Hydro, and today the QoA Adonis arrived... I even wondered if 'd get a bigger benefit with headphones so I bought an Edition XS. They are all really good, but the difference between my $50 Artti T10 and the $150 Aether was much more "I guess it sounds a bit better if I concentrate." Same for ear tips- they've been wasted purchases.

TL;DR for those short on time or not inclined to read the entire review # Pros * Punchy, fun, engaging signature with good contrast between bass and treble * Very good bass quality, expansive soundstage and very good imaging as well * The stock cable is excellent * Super comfortable * Price is spot-on # Cons * The treble extension could benefit from a very small boost up top, even though the signature is already well balanced * Not the most detailed set for this price * Nothing else at this price \---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- # Introduction Juzear has definitely catched my attention since I tried the 81T Dragonfly. I am not the type of guy who’s usually hyped by collaborations with content creators, but this time I was curious mainly because of the fact that Juzear was involved. In this review, I will review this collaboration product between the above-mentioned brand and Z Reviews (Zeos) and I will try to compare the IEMs with other products to provide some context. >*Disclaimer: the Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant were sent to me by HiFiGO free of charge so that I could write an honest review. This review represents my personal opinion on the set, it isn't promotional or paid content and I don’t get any revenue from the sales of this product.* *At the time of the review, the Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant were on sale for about $99,99 at HiFIGO.* https://preview.redd.it/9p0dkrwfxfxe1.jpg?width=1500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0371d0305d836e2f5afe4cc1a1238dbe97ad32d6 # Technical Specifications * Driver Configuration → 1DD + 3BA  * Impedance → 32 Ω * Spec-sheet Frequency Response → 20Hz-20kHz  * Sensitivity → 109 dB/mW @ 1kHz * Cable → Juzear x Flare Stock Cable (6N SPOCC+SCCW Cable, 1.25m length) with Interchangeable Connectors and 2-PIN 0.78mm connectors * Plugs → 3.5mm - 4.4mm modular plugs (both included in the box) # Packaging The packaging of the Defiant is simple yet well organized, containing:  * The Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant * Two sets of silicone tips with different bore width and one pair of foam tips * A detachable 0.78mm 2-PIN cable with modular plug (both 3.5mm and 4.4mm plugs included) * A pleather hard carry case * A small cleaning cloth * User manual https://preview.redd.it/888il1ahxfxe1.jpg?width=1500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d71fdebf5a91ea2a1231cec4d445daad8589fb86 https://preview.redd.it/vhib0z9hxfxe1.jpg?width=1500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cd7e3fe3f8c85c997637d45df990f4ce60d7c21c https://preview.redd.it/a1t3yy9hxfxe1.jpg?width=1500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ed2932e5bed37f01c672978216dc3c1088069a5b https://preview.redd.it/i46wo0ahxfxe1.jpg?width=1500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7e0635aec8d20de1aa3310e12969b212bd527aa6 # Design, Build Quality, Comfort and Isolation The Defiant look and feel super sturdy and refined in their rainbow painted shells and they’re also among the prettiest sets that I actually own. They’re made of 3D printed resin, they are super comfortable and lightweight and the passive isolation is more than enough for most situations. The nozzle is pretty wide though so if you’re someone who’s bothered by bigger nozzles you’ll probably need to use tips with thicker inner tube. https://preview.redd.it/kal8uo7jxfxe1.jpg?width=1500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=45d47ee7aebcdd5e6a2b64084aff55f2af4269e7 https://preview.redd.it/4b4h3k6jxfxe1.jpg?width=1500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9b277191195243842b76e3286b92023ef1673098 # Cable The cable looks good, feels sturdy and durable and it also has modular plugs. Both 4.4mm and 3.5mm plugs are included in the box. My only “complaint” is that the chin slider should have a smaller inner diameter in order to press on the cable a bit more, as it loses its position very fast, but other than this minor issue I’m very happy with the stock cable. https://preview.redd.it/qt9k4aekxfxe1.jpg?width=1500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7099a28495d8153565b6db853df13de30b1f327d # Sound **GEAR USED FOR THE TEST** * DAC: Topping E30  * AMP: Topping L30, Fiio A3 * Mobile phones: Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, Xiaomi Mi A3, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra * Moondrop May’s DSP cable with PEQ=0 * Dongle: Apple Type-C dongle, Fosi DS2, Kiwi Ears Allegro Pro, Tanchjim Stargate 2, Dunu DTC480, Dunu DTC800, Truthear SHIO * Portable DAPs: Snowsky Echo Mini, Benjie S8/AGPTEK M30B * Bluetooth DACs: Snowsky Retro Nano, FiiO BTR11 * Bluetooth Adapters: KBEAR S1, KZ AZ10  * Other sources: Presonus AudioBox iONE, Elgato Wave XLR **Amplifier needed?** The Defiant aren’t very hard to drive so any entry level dongle is enough in order to reach satisfying sound pressure levels. **Let’s speak about the sound.** The Defiant are fun thanks to their punchy and full bodied low-end, a soft recession in the midrange and a lively treble. It’s a colored set for sure, and that means that if you’re searching for a neutral set these are definitely not for you. The sub-bass has good extension, the bass is meaty and tight, with pretty nice textures and decent speed as well, and the attack and decay never feel off. The midrange is slightly recessed but the lower mids aren’t as thin as on other U-shaped sets, meaning that the Defiant can reproduce male vocals and acoustic instruments pretty well. Female vocals are spot-on, never fatiguing, and the treble has good energy yet it never reaches that point in which I find it fatiguing. It’s still on the bright side, but it’s a well-balanced brightness also thanks to a healthy amount of low-end. The detail retrieval is generally good for the price range, even though it’s not the most detailed set that you can buy in this price tag. The soundstage is pretty wide and deep with decent height, and the imaging and layering are pretty good too and easily compete with similarly priced sets. **Are they something I would use considering my taste and preferences?** Yes, yes, yes. I like the tuning, I like the fact that the low-end is punchy and very tight and I love the energetic sound that these reproduce. It’s not that “full basshead” tuning with bass shelf and nothing else, it’s a complete package that features a healthy and fun-sounding low-end along with a nice balance between all the other frequencies. It’s a keeper for me. # Some comparisons: **Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant (1DD+3BA) vs Truthear HEXA (1DD+3BA)** >The HEXA are more towards the neutral side, with slightly more forward upper mids, less emphasized low-end and a bit more treble quantity. The Defiant are punchier, warmer, more U-shaped and with a more contrasty sound, resulting in a more engaging and exciting approach with respect to the leaner-sounding HEXA. The technical performance is good on both sets, with the Defiant being a bit more precise at imaging and soundstage and the HEXA being slightly more resolving when it comes to detail and small nuances.The build quality is good on both sets and the same applies for comfort and isolation. The Defiant come with a better stock cable. **Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant (1DD+3BA) vs Kiwi Ears Airoso (1DD+4BA)** >The Airoso are a bit thicker sounding in the low-end with a slightly slower bass yet more extended sub-bass. The Defiant sound tighter and with a better bass punch instead, and they sound more “contrasty” overall. The lower midrange is a touch thicker on the Airoso whereas the upper mids are more lively and exciting on the Defiant. The treble is generally more extended and present on the Airoso, with a bit more air on top. The detail retrieval is very similar, maybe the Airoso have a very small edge over the Defiant but it’s a negligible difference in my opinion. The soundstage is slightly wider on the Airoso, deeper on the Defiant with similar height. The imaging is good on both but the Defiant are slightly better at pinpointing. The Defiant look better but the build quality is great on both sets. Comfort and isolation are good on both sets, I’d say it’s a draw in this regard. The stock cable of the Defiant is a lot better and also has modular plugs. The tips’ selection is a bit wider with the Airoso. Overall, I find the Defiant more fun and engaging to listen to, so they would be my pick over the two (and they are also cheaper than the Airoso). **Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant (1DD+3BA) vs Simgot EM6L (1DD+4BA)** >In a nutshell, the EM6L are leaner and more neutral with a brighter treble and slightly superior resolution. The Defiant instead have a more emphasized sub-bass response, slightly fuller sounding female vocals and a less bright treble. Overall, the EM6L are still a bit better when it comes to detail retrieval and perceived resolution, and the imaging is a touch better as well (even though the difference is not night and day). The Defiant instead are better in terms of soundstage width and depth, and they are more fun to listen to, with a more impactful bass due to the more contrasty signature. The build quality is great on both sets, but the EM6L have QDC connectors which are not ideal for most people. In terms of packaging and accessories, the Defiant win hands down, even though the EM6L come with a pretty good cable as well (although not as good as the one included with the Defiant). Comfort is good on both but the EM6L don’t have any nozzle lip so the tips keep popping off when you remove the IEMs from your ears, unless you find tighter tips that have a “stickier” inner tube. The passive isolation of the Defiant is better. I like the Defiant more for my daily routine, but the EM6L are still slightly better when it comes to those finer details. **Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant (1DD+3BA) vs Celest Relentless (1DD+6BA)** >The Relentless are more V-shaped, they have a thinner midrange and a more emphasized treble while having a similarly tuned low-end. The Defiant sound thicker with better lower mids’ body and timbre and more natural female vocals, and they have a smoother and more tolerable upper range frequencies for most people, even though this comes at the expense of some small nuances which the Relentless, instead, can portray very easily. In terms of soundstage, the Defiant have a deeper portrayed soundscape, whereas the Relentless are a touch better in terms of width and height. In terms of imaging, the Defiant is have a slight edge over the Relentless. The perceived resolution is superior on the Relentless, as said above when speaking about the treble, although this obviously comes at the expense of a more fatiguing/less natural sound. The build quality and design are great on both sets, they both come with great cables that feature modular plugs and they both come with a decent set of tips. Comfort and isolation are very similar as well. I prefer the Defiant most of the times, but I still reach for my Relentless here and there when I want even more sparkle and air on top. If I had to buy one of the two, then I’d definitely pick a pair of Defiant because of their more versatile tuning. # Final Thoughts If you still haven’t understood my thoughts about the Defiant (even though it should be pretty clear from everything I’ve said above), then I'll state it here: I like the Defiant. I like the overall balance that Juzear and Zeos managed to strike, with a very tight and impactful low-end yet, vivid upper-mids and treble and a softly recessed midrange that doesn’t really impact the overall listening experience, giving just a bit more space to the low-end and upper-end to push a bit more forward and providing for a very engaging and contrasty signature. The listing price is also correct for what the product offers, especially considering the set of accessories, the cable with modular plugs, and the great looking and well build earpieces. The Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant get an easy recommendation for me and I’m pretty sure that many will enjoy them as much as I did.

Hi There — really appreciate the thoughtful response!! This graph is exactly what I needed, thank you! I have yet to try the Aful's yet but have been really curious. I do like a bit of sparkle but if the 5 + 2 does that in a more balanced way I want to check them out. The odyssey looks awesome and maybe those Knowles drivers will clear out more space for details. Who is making stuff with no bass boost these days? or is that simply a bad idea, lol. I grabbed the Airoso and found their mid-bass too hyped, but need to give them more time – hard to beat though when you're looking at half the price of a lot of these other IEMS.

I second the Airoso! I have both the supermix 4 and the airoso (I never tried the ke4 so sadly can’t compare that one); for around 80-100 bucks the airoso is a solid purchase!