KZ - Castor (Harman Target Version)

I had just the OG with Bass , very good The pro with bass is a different beast. If you want relaxed smooth thick bass , the OG is better , the pro has somewhat coloured enhanced mids and all cymbals sound the same . Imagine the old one note bass of cheap speakers , now flip this into treble . I prefer the OG bass than the pro bass

There appears to be a massive dip in the upper mids low treble on the castor pro bass . Also when there’s a lot of badly constructed treble in the track, the OG sounds better Another thing, at low volumes the OG carries the bass better I have both and like them both , but the OG version plays better on most tracks except where there is too much bass

In all honesty, yes: I have the og Castor Harman, the Zvx pro, the Prx, the (CCA) Rhapsody, amd the AM16 Balanced, and they're all banger, banger sets. I've been lucky and haven't faced breaking QC issues, but then again, what brand doesn't have QC issues?

The og (NOT pro) kz castor harman (silver) in the 1100 configuration is still one of my favorites, even among more expensive sets

I feel you, homie :D Just watch a load of reviews, scour reddit for all the info you can, then just pull the trigger on a cheap set that you instinctively feel might match your preferences..! Then, give your brain and ears time to get used to it, then go from there, IF you need to! (No need to go down the rabbit hole if you like what you have :D) Honestly, among the sets in my collection, one of my all time favorites is the original (ie: NOT the pro version) KZ Castor Harman (the silver one), it has great imaging and soundstage! Edits for typos PS: Ma sei italiano? :3

Try the og non-Pro KZ Castor silver (and set the switches to 1100 for a bit more bass!), you can buy it for basically spare change now, it will start giving you an idea, and it's great for gaming to boot! Yup this is all so subjective and solipsistic, but it's part of the fun! ps: yeah, the 'Vito', plus 'infinito' means infinite/neverending in italian as well, ahah

I own the Castor Harman (original version) and heard the Chu2. The Castor trashes the Chu2. Also, the Gate is said to be "not for everyone" and the build is not on par with the Chu or Castor.

The Zero:Red is a good-enough earphone with a generous package. Not much needs to be said. As for the KZs, I really don't know where the others are getting their sets from, since my older sets have lasted for 2+ years while my newer budget sets have no signs of failure albeit some wear and tear from constant use. If you want a technical Harman, then get the standard Castor. The KZ Saga balanced-version (15usd) is warm Harman-ish and the better 7Hz G1 (36usd). Same tuning philosophy but smoother treble and slightly more forward vocals.

you should look at their detailed description in yt so you can get the one which is better for your use. i think generally castor are better

This one with dunu candy tips and a nicer cable became my daily, I felt that it sacrificed some timbre for better technical performance compared to the other budget iems. Shame it's unofficially discontinued, I opened one up and one of the drivers was changed. So was the sound.

New in the IEM community? Recommended to follow these things before using, while and after using your IEM. 1. Buy an IEM case or if you have case for it (like the Hexa or similar Truthear IEMs), make sure when you are not using it put it there to avoid accidental misplacement or possibly breaking your IEM or the cable, as well as avoid excess dust coming to your IEM. 2. Put a silica gel packet onto that IEM case, this is to avoid moisture seeping inside the IEM. Which is one common way to kill your IEM, it degrades the glue used, degrades the faceplate, sometimes even the design and finish of the IEM. It can also affect the actual drivers inside, which will degrade audio quality. Minimal moisture, happy IEM. 3. Eartips, make sure you have the best fit with the best sound isolation to fully experience the IEM. IEM nozzle sizes can vary. From what I have heard the Hexa has large nozzle. 4. Cabling, you are open to get a cable on your choice, use it like a fashion statement haha. 5. Recommended to get at least a DAC, its not a requirement if you cannot get one but it will definitely enhance your sound experience. With a much more proper DAC/AMP setup even your in-line microphone will sound nicer. Though because its much better to separate your microphone from the IEM cable, usually its recommended to at least get a USB dongle DAC with the CX31993 DAC + MAX97220 AMP. But if you can afford a better DAC/AMP setup, why not. 6. Avoid accidental dropping or being too rough with your IEM, so you won't need to always rebuy another set of IEMs. No IEM will survive especially cheap ones if it keeps falling accidentally or being used too hard. 7. You can EQ your IEM, definitely you can especially if you want to enhance a specific frequency. Lastly, enjoy your IEM to its fullest extent and welcome to the IEM community! My IEM Collection: QKZ AK6 Pro (left), KZ Castor Bass (center), Tangzu Wan'er SG (right) https://preview.redd.it/g3fy5z4hr2pe1.png?width=4860&format=png&auto=webp&s=6738c1bdd20d07099fbb122c99bd33a471c3b2ca

terms of vocals, nothing really beats the Tangzu Wan'er SG or the Wan'er 2. Maybe abit of treble, sparkles, and soundstage, that would be KZ Castor Silver. But vocals is still better for the Wan'er SG/Wan'er 2.

100% I would basically just add and test this to my growing IEM collection. Especially now I have owned and tested the original Wan'er SG. Left: QKZ AK6 Pro (previous daily driver) Center: KZ Castor Improved Bass (current daily driver) Right: Tangzu x Headphone Zone Wa'ner SG (tested, decent and amazing sound for its price, but Castor still is a winner for my personal sound feel) https://preview.redd.it/n06vww0aevoe1.jpeg?width=4160&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=929adbc51920b99189669a3df55df1e5c72da86f

Here's a better shot on my IEM collection, including their wires (only the Castor uses a Jcally cable) https://preview.redd.it/o8pbd3bhkzoe1.png?width=4860&format=png&auto=webp&s=272174ff663d3f3e19b836b44602eb45b097d142 I use medium QKZ stock tips on my QKZ AK6 Pro (left) I switched my Tangzu wide bore small tips from the Wan'er to the Castor My Wan'er now has the small QKZ stock tips (QKZ tips has both small and wide bore, but the Tangzu tips feel much better for my ears, less fatiguing) Later on I might try going for their Sanchai tips. Wide bore/hole = enhances mids and treble, I went for this for my Castor Small bore/hole = enhances bass Wan'er SG sounds amazing for daily use, definitely not super fatiguing, very mellow and light to the ears as well. Though it lacks some mids and treble. For my Castor Black, I use UDUU switches (natural bass and enhancing the mids and treble, creating a more balanced sound) Then I used the Tanzgu small wide bore tips, to enhance the mids and treble abit more. I prefer a V-shaped bright sound signature with some level of warmness, which the Castor Black does deliver on my sound preference.

I am doing the reverse from you, I came from bassy IEMs to neutral or neutral-ish. My old daily driver was the QKZ AK6 Pro (left most, too boomy for my ears now) Then switched to the KZ Castor Bass (Very very V-shaped, big bass and big treble) -> Tested Tangzu Wan'er SG (Neutral Warm on my ears) -> KZ EDC Pro (U-shaped) -> Tested then switched to the KZ Castor Silver (Neutral Bright IEM) https://preview.redd.it/7fb6i40ommve1.png?width=8100&format=png&auto=webp&s=5639f5828253e1796037c4592d784a93bd3eb8b3

I am doing the reverse from you, I came from bassy IEMs to neutral or neutral-ish. My old daily driver was the QKZ AK6 Pro (left most, too boomy for my ears now) Then switched to the KZ Castor Bass (Very very V-shaped, big bass and big treble) -> Tested Tangzu Wan'er SG (Neutral Warm on my ears) -> KZ EDC Pro (U-shaped) -> Tested then switched to the KZ Castor Silver (Neutral Bright IEM) https://preview.redd.it/7fb6i40ommve1.png?width=8100&format=png&auto=webp&s=5639f5828253e1796037c4592d784a93bd3eb8b3

**Before** you definitely buy your first IEM watch this [**video**](https://youtu.be/tdmXjBlgVxo?si=kNLxejchE9sgzW6y) from Sevensoul Constanza This will help you on your purchase of you first IEM, and to *avoid wasting alot of money initially*. **Also new in the IEM community?** Recommended to follow these things *before, while, and after* using your IEM. 1. **Buy an IEM case or if you have case for it**, make sure when you are not using it put it there to avoid accidental misplacement or possibly breaking your IEM or the cable, as well as avoid excess dust coming to your IEM. Higher priced IEMs have included case in the box, some are soft cases, some are hard cases. 2. **Put a silica gel packet onto that IEM case**, this is to avoid moisture seeping inside the IEM. It degrades the glue used, degrades the faceplate, sometimes even the design and finish of the IEM. It can also affect the actual drivers inside, which will degrade audio quality. Minimal moisture, happy IEM. 3. **Eartips**, make sure you have the best fit with the best sound isolation to fully experience the IEM. IEM nozzle sizes can vary, so adjust your eartips concurrently on your ear canal. Make sure it fits right and no weird feeling, you can definitely use different sizes of eartips per ear depending on how fitting are them, and eartip bore/hole size can also change how the sound feel. Wide bore enhances trebles and allows more sound from the IEM, narrow bore enhances bass, foam tips cuts the highs and lows, and the texture, material and whatever inside the hole of the eartip can change the sound profile as well. 4. **Cabling**, you are open to get a cable on your choice, with mic or no mic, use it like a fashion statement if you wanted to. But recommended to separate your microphone from the cable, as in-line microphones are usually sounds worse than normal microphones. 5. **Recommended** ***(but not a requirement)*** **to get at a DAC**, will definitely enhance your sound experience. With a much more proper DAC/AMP setup even your in-line microphone will sound nicer. Though because its much better to separate your microphone from the IEM cable, usually its recommended to at least get a USB dongle DAC like the Apple Dongle or for Android, CX31993 DAC + MAX97220 AMP from this [**Crinacle video**](https://youtu.be/a-jlS_OlSUg?si=Zm2oqWqnzwAcRkdO). Anything more expensive than that is mainly just additional features (4.4 balanced, Bluetooth support, app support, parametric EQ, etc.) and not better sound. 6. **Avoid accidental dropping or being too rough with your IEM**, so you won't need to always rebuying another set of IEMs. No IEM will survive if it keeps falling accidentally or being used too hard. 7. **You can EQ** ***(Equalize)*** **your IEM**, definitely you can especially if you want to enhance a specific frequency, or sound experience. And welcome to the IEM community! My IEM Collection: QKZ AK6 Pro (left), KZ Castor Bass (center), Tangzu x Headphone Zone Wan'er SG (right) https://preview.redd.it/miyj4ga15kpe1.png?width=4860&format=png&auto=webp&s=bf7493565ef1d740876677e2d4892bbf06bf2468

I am new-ish in the space, but my KZ Castor Improved Bass with a basic CX31993 dongle DAC, it fits my sound preference at UDUU switches and Tangzu small wide bore eartips. Especially that one time I listened to some specific genres I usually listen. But I do also want to test and maybe own other IEMs that is fairly similar to it (upgrade or similar), I might go buy a Simgot EW300 next to test. https://preview.redd.it/ysdxcryow0pe1.png?width=4860&format=png&auto=webp&s=19cac0ada53a5515858cd7237e99f565e52588fb

I have switched years ago when I got a cheapo QKZ CK5 -> QKZ AK6 -> QKZ AK6 Pro. I don't recommend buying these for your first IEM for gaming, even though they are fine for my personal choice. My old headphone was both a Tchibo Closed Back wireless and an old Beats Studio from my ex. Best buy an IEM with an external DAC, and an upgrade cable, silver-plated. I have been using KZ Castor Improved Bass (dip switch set to 1011), replaying old single player games I played like STALKER, GTAV, Fallout series. They sound amazing and I feel like I am listening to a movie than a game. Its fine as well while playing multiplayer games, though I am currently in the process of receiving a new IEM for my collection. Tangzu x Headphone Zone Wa'ner SG (Blue) Just make sure you at least buy a DAC for it, nothing fancy. https://preview.redd.it/isfm0vzj9lne1.png?width=720&format=png&auto=webp&s=1a25d6faf9d6869c7542167457b643e82a6e3c04

I might end up joining your KZ IEM collection, I am new in the IEM game but is also interested in collecting. First KZ I got is the original Castor Pro Improved Bass, got it few months ago. Its virtually better than my old daily driver, QKZ AK6 Pro. Also waiting for my Tangzu x Headphone Zone Wa'ner SG soon, and eyeing up an EDC Pro and EDX Pro X, maybe a Angelears x Libra X as well. Current collection (as of now): QKZ AK6 Pro (purple+blue) KZ Castor Improved Bass (daily driver) Tangzu x Headphone Zone Wa'ner SG (blue, coming soon) Planned (soon): KZ EDC Pro KZ EDX Pro X Broken: QKZ CK5 QKZ AK6 (purple+blue) https://preview.redd.it/qpdpz6pemhne1.jpeg?width=4160&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2498fe5741bfa99ee4b1f65020a15f0469bcb8ad

https://preview.redd.it/eamschpzsdte1.png?width=8100&format=png&auto=webp&s=64a34d73de9ac20e910cd7c60c1059ab51e04e8d I haven't noped out on any IEMs yet so far haha, lets see as I slowly grow my collection and future IEMs and upgrades. Maybe because I prefer mild or slightly coloured v-shaped/u-shaped either bright or warm. Maybe if I get the QKZ x HBB Hades I would nope out because of lack of treble and too much bass. **(from left to right, list is based on when I bought it)** 1. QKZ AK6 Pro (Original daily driver, memories) 2. KZ Castor Improved Bass (Current daily driver, may change to the KZ Castor Silver) 3. Tangzu x Headphone Zone Wan'er SG (tested and satisfied, collected) 4. KZ EDC Pro (tested and satisfied, collected) 5. KZ Castor Silver (currently testing, collected)

I loved the OG alot, but I prefer more separation of frequencies with details. So I would switch to the Silver Castor. But the Castor Bass is definitely great fun IEM, the Castor Silver is has less muddy lower mids because the Castor Bass muddies tiny bit. Though with the setting of UDUU, its close ish to a muddy free mids

https://preview.redd.it/eamschpzsdte1.png?width=8100&format=png&auto=webp&s=64a34d73de9ac20e910cd7c60c1059ab51e04e8d I haven't noped out on any IEMs yet so far haha, lets see as I slowly grow my collection and future IEMs and upgrades. Maybe because I prefer mild or slightly coloured v-shaped/u-shaped either bright or warm. Maybe if I get the QKZ x HBB Hades I would nope out because of lack of treble and too much bass. **(from left to right, list is based on when I bought it)** 1. QKZ AK6 Pro (Original daily driver, memories) 2. KZ Castor Improved Bass (Current daily driver, may change to the KZ Castor Silver) 3. Tangzu x Headphone Zone Wan'er SG (tested and satisfied, collected) 4. KZ EDC Pro (tested and satisfied, collected) 5. KZ Castor Silver (currently testing, collected)

ah the Castor Silver or the Castor Pro Silver might really not sound as good as the Bass version direct being its tuned for more neutral signature (less bass) Than the bass version which is more into giving more bass, more immersion for games plus yeah you are using it directly to a device than via a separate DAC I use mine for the most part music listening and the Castor Silver for music production, I rarely play games nowadays. For the most part single player games on PC/Laptop or games with Co-op and lots of story.

Personally, at 2k INR. None will have the clarity and details for some and many audiophiles. It kinda starts at least at the 4k-5k INR or above. If you want some details in this price range, go with a bright sound signature or V-shaped with prominent bright or trebles. Neutral Warm * Tangzu Wan'er SG \*\* * Tangzu Wan'er 2 \* Neutral Bright * 7Hz Salnotes Zero * KZ Castor Silver (Harman tuning, DDUU switches) \*\* * KZ Castor Pro Silver (Harman tuning, DDUU switches) \*\* * KZ x Angelears Libra X V-shaped * 7Hz x Crinacle Salnotes Zero 2 \* * Tanchjim Bunny 3.5mm \* * Tanchjim One 3.5mm * KZ Castor Silver (Harman tuning, UUDD switches) \*\* * KZ Castor Pro Silver (Harman tuning, UUDD switches) \*\* U-shaped * Tanchjim Bunny DSP \* * Tanchjim One DSP * DUNU Titan S2 \* (\* recommend | \*\* personally owned)

KZ Castor Bass PROS * Fun V-shaped sound signature, makes music more "fun" * Better sparkles and high clarity on details, abit more technical than Wan'er SG * Versatile tuning, EQ and Tuning switches * Makes movies and games feels more cinematic * SUBJECTIVE: Personally, thumpy but well rounded bass CONS * Mids especially male vocals sounds abit recessed * Treble bright, might be fatiguing for some * Accessories lack abit * Might be heavy feeling in the ears for some * Nozzle size might be abit larger than Wan'er (Personally they feel the same for me, needed to go for a smaller eartip on both) * Might not be good for some specific music genres, because of the excess of bass for some * SUBJECTIVE: Personally I don't like the stock eartips

KZ Castor Silver (Harman, personally best of both worlds, closest to the sound of EDC Pro with better general sound feel) PROS * Neutral sounding (Bright or warm, depends on the tuning) * Very versatile with tuning and EQ * Same with the Bass, better high clarity and details, technicallity better than the Wan'er SG * Closer to the Harman tuning than the two, so it sounds very harman tuning (Subjective, some dont like harman) * Its like your in between the Castor Bass and Wan'er SG, but without the cons of the Wan'er SG CONS * Treble bright, might be fatiguing for some * Accessories lack abit * Might be heavy feeling in the ears for some * Nozzle size might be abit larger than Wan'er (Personally they feel the same for me, needed to go for a smaller eartip on both) * SUBJECTIVE: Personally I don't like the stock eartips

**Before** you definitely buy your first IEM watch this [**video**](https://youtu.be/tdmXjBlgVxo?si=kNLxejchE9sgzW6y) from Sevensoul Constanza and go to our Community IEM ranking list, our **AutoModerator** automatically posts it. This will help you on your purchase of you first IEM, and to *avoid wasting alot of money initially*. **Also new in the IEM community?** Recommended to follow these things *before, while, and after* using your IEM. 1. **Buy an IEM case or if you have case for it**, make sure when you are not using it put it there to avoid accidental misplacement or possibly breaking your IEM or the cable, as well as avoid excess dust coming to your IEM. Higher priced IEMs have included case in the box, some are soft cases, some are hard cases. 2. **Put a silica gel packet onto that IEM case**, this is to avoid moisture seeping inside the IEM. It degrades the glue used, degrades the faceplate, sometimes even the design and finish of the IEM. It can also affect the actual drivers inside, which will degrade audio quality. Minimal moisture, happy IEM. 3. **Eartips**, make sure you have the best fit with the best sound isolation to fully experience the IEM. IEM nozzle sizes can vary, so adjust your eartips concurrently on your ear canal. Make sure it fits right and no weird feeling, you can definitely use different sizes of eartips per ear depending on how fitting are them, and eartip bore/hole size can also change how the sound feel. Wide bore enhances trebles and allows more sound from the IEM, narrow bore enhances bass, foam tips cuts the highs and lows, and the texture, material and whatever inside the hole of the eartip can change the sound profile as well. 4. **Cabling**, you are open to get a cable on your choice, with mic or no mic, use it like a fashion statement if you wanted to. But recommended to separate your microphone from the cable, as in-line microphones are usually sounds worse than normal microphones. 5. **Recommended** ***(but not a requirement)*** **to get at a DAC**, will definitely enhance your sound experience. With a much more proper DAC/AMP setup even your in-line microphone will sound nicer. Though because its much better to separate your microphone from the IEM cable, usually its recommended to at least get a USB dongle DAC like the Apple Dongle or for Android, CX31993 DAC + MAX97220 AMP from this [**Crinacle video**](https://youtu.be/a-jlS_OlSUg?si=Zm2oqWqnzwAcRkdO). Anything more expensive than that is mainly just additional features (4.4 balanced, Bluetooth support, app support, parametric EQ, etc.) and not better sound. 6. **Avoid accidental dropping or being too rough with your IEM**, so you won't need to always rebuying another set of IEMs. No IEM will survive if it keeps falling accidentally or being used too hard. 7. **You can EQ** ***(Equalize)*** **your IEM**, definitely you can especially if you want to enhance a specific frequency, or sound experience. **And welcome to the IEM community!** My IEM Collection: QKZ AK6 Pro (left), KZ Castor Bass (center), Tangzu x Headphone Zone Wan'er SG (right) https://preview.redd.it/gij71dscwjqe1.png?width=4860&format=png&auto=webp&s=8ee8a870b3fff4a20257519da341d419d23d9052

And for your question, IEMs for gaming maybe at or under $20 or less. Tangzu Wan'er 2 * New and will improve the original Wan'er SG, 2-pin 0.78mm (better than QDC) * Pre-order and no reviews yet so far. Tangzu Wan'er SG * Mellow and easy to daily drive both physically and sound comfort wise, one of the best stock eartips I experienced. Best low sub-bass I experienced. * Might sound a tad muddy footsteps especially Valorant, uses QDC connector. Moondrop Chu 2 * Great all rounder for competitive gaming, light and small, metal case and 2-pin 0.78mm. * Bass might be lacking for some, and especially single-player games, might be abit treble harsh sounding for some. KZ EDC Pro * General all rounder, punchy bass with good clarity and highs. Great for general single-player games and maybe some online games as well. 2-pin 0.78mm and light to wear. Mellow and not treble harsh sounding. * Might muddies out footsteps especially Valorant KZ Castor * Silver version - A more versatile version of the EDC Pro, has the better soundstage a bit, can change sound feel from a neutral bright, neutral, and abit bassy. uses QDC and might be a tad heavier in the ears, treble harsh especially at its treble and mid focused tunings. * Bass version - Best avoid with competitive games, especially Valorant. But great with single-player games that are cinematic and has alot of cutscenes and environmental stuffs. QDC and heavy as well. KZ Castor Pro * Silver and Bass versions - same with the OG Castor, but a tad bit physically heavier. There are definitely better IEMs on slightly higher price range of $50-80, but they might be expensive for you. You can wait and save some more money for a more pricey set.

Ah oh, you could try vent blocking the ThieAudio though the sound feel will change. I don't know how pricy is this but, Audiosense DT600, unvented and bassy IEM Or maybe your ears will adjust to the Orchestra Lite, just like how my ears adjusted from the QKZ AK6 Pro (bassy boomy set) to a KZ Castor Silver (harman tuned)

tbh in the end, it boils down to 1. Tuning 2. Looks/Visuals 3. Accessories 4. And your music library or genres you listen 5. Treble sensitivity = sensitive, go to Safe tuning Kiwi Ears Cadenza is the safest tuning out in the two, but the tuning might not work with some music genres especially if you want a tad bit more analytical or technical. 7Hz Salnotes Zero 2 is a bit more technical-ish than Cadenza and with a tad bit more treble. The safe tuning is also up there with the Tangzu Wa'ner SG/2, which is fine for me but I still ended up with KZ Castor Silver because of abit more technical sound experience and generally abit more brighter feel. In the end its hard to say one is better or the other until you hear the difference between the two or atleast if you have a headphone then EQ it to either, or test your treble sensitivity via speakers or headphones. Personal experience based on my collection https://preview.redd.it/u014mhatspue1.jpeg?width=2048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8fba3241ae9d71167d526093ed0d263afe39ad07

https://preview.redd.it/snok346uz5we1.png?width=8100&format=png&auto=webp&s=75fafb1987a5ab7a8175735702e898f4e399a116 I have the Wan'er SG 1 (center), and these other IEMs on my collection Personally I still prefer the sound of the KZ Castor Silver or Bass. I don't know much about the ZS10 Pro, but basing on the squiglink. Wan'er 2 is more of a neutral warm, safe tuning (minimal treble) IEM Zero 2 is a mild V-shaped IEM, while not causing issues with the midrange that much ZS10 Pro is more V-shaped than the Castor Silver, and is treble brighter-ish and has abit more bass than the Silver but lacks bass vs the Bass version. In the end it really depends on your sound preference, music genres you listen in general, and comfort level on an IEM. I would definitely suggest to buy the Wan'er SG and the 7hz x Crinacle Salnotes Zero 2 as well being those two are also cheap IEMs under $20. But if you cannot buy another one, if you have friends or people who can let you try their Wan'er or Zero 2. Same with u/Mrs_Doyles_Teabags, the IEM world is a journey to enjoy, and good luck on your IEM paths you take!

https://preview.redd.it/snok346uz5we1.png?width=8100&format=png&auto=webp&s=75fafb1987a5ab7a8175735702e898f4e399a116 I have the Wan'er SG 1 (center), and these other IEMs on my collection Personally I still prefer the sound of the KZ Castor Silver or Bass. I don't know much about the ZS10 Pro, but basing on the squiglink. Wan'er 2 is more of a neutral warm, safe tuning (minimal treble) IEM Zero 2 is a mild V-shaped IEM, while not causing issues with the midrange that much ZS10 Pro is more V-shaped than the Castor Silver, and is treble brighter-ish and has abit more bass than the Silver but lacks bass vs the Bass version. In the end it really depends on your sound preference, music genres you listen in general, and comfort level on an IEM. I would definitely suggest to buy the Wan'er SG and the 7hz x Crinacle Salnotes Zero 2 as well being those two are also cheap IEMs under $20. But if you cannot buy another one, if you have friends or people who can let you try their Wan'er or Zero 2. Same with u/Mrs_Doyles_Teabags, the IEM world is a journey to enjoy, and good luck on your IEM paths you take!

KZ Castor Silver can be bright and very technical, separation of bass and midrange is decent, not mudding each other than the Bass version. While still giving clarity and sparkles with some ok technicalities and soundstage. But it definitely follows harman tuning. The Aurora Ultra is more technical than KZ Castor Silver because of its hybrid planar+DD setup, so it can handle faster transients and changes in the music than DD only. Only issue is unsure if it would be all good with direct to device than using a USB-C DAC, being a planar set it might need some power

https://preview.redd.it/9nqznnked0se1.jpeg?width=4272&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0f22eb41447bcd7067c20692ef6e9c19067d79b3 Ah my old and trusty, easy to replace QKZ AK6 Pro (since 2017 I think when I first bought this IEM). Sometimes, though they sound muddy and boomy for my ears now haha. Especially after I got my KZ Castor Bass. Though sometimes I still use this cheapo, for why not sake.

1500 INR? * KZ Castor/Castor Pro Silver * KZ EDC Pro If you can at least push it at 2k INR, I would suggest * Tangzu Wan'er SG 2 * Tangzu Wan'er SG * Truthear Gate * 7Hz x Crinacle Zero 2 * Kiwi Ears Dolce * Moondrop Chu 2 Prices are HeadphoneZone, Audio Store, and Concept Cart If Amazon * KZ EDC Pro above 1.5k INR * Tangzu Wan'er SG 2 * Tangzu Wan'er SG * Truthear Gate * 7Hz x Crinacle Zero 2 * Kiwi Ears Dolce * Moondrop Chu 2 * KZ Castor/Castor Pro Silver

yeah as long as you buy the Silver, not the bass. The silver is more all-rounder than the Black bass version which is more into EDM/Pop

- KZ Castor/Castor Pro Silver - KZ EDC Pro - Tangzu Wa'ner SG/Wan'er SG 2 - 7Hz Salnotes Zero/Crinacle Zero 2 - Truthear Gate - Tanchjim Bunny

tbh all budget ChiFi has meh QC or some of its quality reduced, especially under the 3-4k INR. As long as you take good care of your IEM, they will last long, cheap or expensive. [Here is my beginner's guide for IEMs,](https://www.reddit.com/user/NinjaSiren/comments/1jil8re/beginners_intro_guide_to_iems/) including how to protect these little stuffs This QKZ AK6 Pro that is below or above 1k INR lasted with me for 3 years and still running, QKZ is one of those IEM manufacturers that is known to have iffy issues. (Btw KZ not same as QKZ, different companies) https://preview.redd.it/tz0tlx4e49te1.jpeg?width=4272&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=584f698dcd0a4488307e52f7e48f599ff7e0c052

All under 3k INR (based on ConceptKart website) Neutral (including warm and bright) * Tangzu Wan'er SG (neutral warm) \*\* * Tangzu Wan'er 2 (neutral warm) \* * Tanchjim Bunny DSP (neutral bright) \* * Tanchjim One DSP (neutral warm) * Moondrop Chu 2 DSP (neutral bright) * 7Hz Salnotes Zero (neutral bright) * Truthear Gate (neutral balanced) \* * Kinera Celest Wyvern Qing (neutral balanced) \* * KZ Castor/Castor Pro Silver (v-warm-ish to neutral bright) \*\* V/U-shaped (including warm and bright) * Tanchjim Bunny 3.5mm * Tanchjim One 3.5mm * 7Hz x Crinacle Salnotes Zero 2 (mild v-balanced) \* * ND Planet (v-warm) * Rose Technics (Roseselsa) Aurora Ultra (v-warm-ish) \* * Moondrop Chu 2 3.5mm (mild v) * DUNU Titan S2 (v-balanced) \* * BLON BL-03 (v-warm) * BLON BL-03 II (v-warm) * Kiwi Ears Dolce (u-bright) * TRN Conch (mild v-bright) * Moondrop Chu 2 3.5mm (mild v-balanced) \* * Kinera Celest Wyvern Abyss (mild v-warm) * Tangzu Shimin Li (mild-v bright) * KZ Castor/Castor Pro Silver (mild v-warm-ish to neutral bright) \*\* * KZ Castor/Castor Pro Black Improved Bass (v-bass to v-bright-ish) \*\* * KZ EDC Pro (u-warm) \*\* * KZ EDX Pro (v-bright) (\* recommend | \*\* personally I own)

I like the original KZ Castor Improved Bass, and still is my daily driver to this day Might also go buy and try the QKZ x HBB, I already have initially started my IEM journey from QKZ (CK5, AK6, then the Pro) Enjoy what you like and love 👌 Though I am now currently doing a test with the Wan'er SG (as it just arrived, also I know Wan'er 2 is coming, and I have also bought silica packets for these, less moisture) https://preview.redd.it/4zuciio1ogoe1.jpeg?width=4160&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ebd409ae8297df465174eae4deb71f6cfc09449d

Chu 2 is ok, just that it might sound abit less fun with single-player games because of lack of enough bass. As well as recent issues with broken 2-pins and them getting stuck within the IEM. (very fixable and cable replacement) Tangzu Wan'er SG is a safer for the ears set, less treble crazy, but personally it sounded abit low mid muddy (but generally its all fine) KZ Castor, I am still waiting for my Silver version (but I liked the EDC Pro, similar-ish to the Silver Castor). I have the Bass, which is better for me vs the Wan'er SG, better sparkle and technicalities.

1. **are you treble sensitive?** *if yes* then I cannot fully approve KZ Castor either Bass or Silver (as its tad bit treble crazy in some of its tuning) If not treble sensitive, yeah KZ Castor Silver Harman you can go for neutral bright to neutral warm (bassy, like Wan'er SG with abit more technicality) with the tuning switches. KZ Castor Bass is abit more bassy than the Harman, its also low mid muddy and abit mid recessed, but I get more technicalities and sparkle with it. But Tangzu Wan'er SG or Wan'er 2 is a more mellow IEM, great for long duration listening with no issues with treble, decent mid clarity and vocals. Bass is also decent with good sub-bass, but personally I find it abit low mid muddy and less technical and sparkle. KZ EDC Pro is my middle of the road between the Castor and Wan'er, it has enough sound sparkle and brightness while maintaining some clarity in the mids and still a bassy and punchy bass. While not making too much harsh trebles. This would be subjective, as you might have a different sound experience.

Bassy IEMs: Under $5 * QKZ AK6 Pro $25 and lower (bass-focused) * KBEar Rosefinch \* * QKZ x HBB (OG version) \* * BLON BL-01 * KZ Castor Bass \* $25 and lower (neutral warm) * Tangzu Wan'er SG/Wan'er 2 \* * 7Hz x Crinacle Salnotes Zero 2 \* * Moondrop Chu 2 * KZ Castor Silver (UUDD switches) $25-60 (bass-focused) * BLON BL-03/BL-03 II \* * BLON x HBB Z300 * TinHiFi C3 Mk2 \* * 7Hz x HBB Elua * Kinera Celest Gumiho * KZ Castor Pro Bass \* * CCA Rhapsody \* * CCA Trio \* $25-60 (neutral warm) * Kefine Klean \* * Inawaken Dawn Ms \* * Kiwi Ears Cadenza \* * Tripowin x 0DiBi Vivace \* * Kinera Celest Wyvern Abyss \* * Tangzu YuXuanJi * KBear KB02 * KZ Zenith (UUDD switches) \* * KZ Castor Pro Silver (UUDD switches) Special mentioned * Truthear x Crinacle Zero Blue 2 \* * QKZ x HBB Khan (\* recommend)

If you are going for the Castor or Castor Pro for general use, do not go for the Improved Bass version (even if its being advertised by many YouTubers) The Silver Harman is the way better Castor for general use, I have the OG Bass version as well. Its great for music but with gaming it gets muddied. Castor/Castor Pro Silver > Castor/Castor Pro Bass Terms of the Wan'er 2, from the people I ask and comparing vs the original Wan'er SG. Seems its a minor upgrade, better bass and mid separation (less muddy mids), and better cable with the inclusion of their Sanchai eartips. But the tuning is still the original Wan'er SG with its slighty anemic treble and sparkles (personally)

If you are going for the Castor or Castor Pro for general use, do not go for the Improved Bass version (even if its being advertised by many YouTubers) The Silver Harman is the way better Castor for general use, I have the OG Bass version as well. Its great for music but with gaming it gets muddied. Castor/Castor Pro Silver > Castor/Castor Pro Bass Terms of the Wan'er 2, from the people I ask and comparing vs the original Wan'er SG. Seems its a minor upgrade, better bass and mid separation (less muddy mids), and better cable with the inclusion of their Sanchai eartips. But the tuning is still the original Wan'er SG with its slighty anemic treble and sparkles (personally)

They are for the most part similar in general sound experience and tuning. Just that Castor Pro has abit more clarity and minor details vs the original. Though the Pro is abit more larger in size and abit heavier. Like a little bit. Both are good tbh, though I personally go for the og version. If you want less treble with them, then you go for UUDD switches.

|WARM|BALANCED-ish|BRIGHT| |:-|:-|:-| |Tangzu Wan'er SG (neutral warm)|Moondrop Chu 2 (mild v-bright-ish)|7Hz Salnotes Zero (neutral bright)| |Kiwi Ears Cadenza (neutral warm, with a touch of bright)||Simgot EW200 (mild v-bright)| All of them are good at their price point, but basing on your other IEMs, you prefer a mild-v tuning, either abit bright or abit warm. * KZ Castor Harman (Silver) which is a neutral bright to mild v-warm from switches * 7Hz x Crinacle Salnotes Zero 2 which is a mild v-balanced with a warm-ish feel * KZ EDC Pro is a u-balanced with a touch of warmness Kiwi Ears Cadenza has better brightness and air vs Tanzgu Wan'er SG, and personally experienced some minimal lower midrange mud with the original Tangzu Wan'er SG. Tangzu Wan'er SG 2 kinda fixed most of the issues with the original Wan'er SG, but its still a neutral warm IEM. Simgot EW200 has more energetic and brighter sound signature than KZ Castor Silver (Harman), but KZ Castor Silver has better soundstage and image separation vs Simgot EW200. Moondrop Chu 2 is the smallest on all of these, but might lack overall sound experience abit vs both the KZ Castor Silver and 7Hz x Crinacle Salnotes Zero 2. 7Hz Salnotes Zero is more neutral bright, lacks bass impact vs 7Hz x Crinacle Salnotes Zero 2. (fairly similar to KZ Castor Silver at DDUU/DDDU switches) * So if you want a little bit more warmness but retaining some balanced feel, Kiwi Ears Cadenza * If you want more treble energy and abit more analytical, Simgot EW200 * If you want a small IEM, Moondrop Chu 2

then go for a single DD IEM or 2DD with neutral or harman/harman-ish tuning, avoid going hybrids or planars. With the price range there are decently ones but I am unsure if they include a cable with included microphone, excluding every IEM we already listed before: * Kefine Klean \* * Tripowin Vivace \* * Moondrop Lan * Inawaken Dawn Ms \* * Kinera Celest Wyvern Pro * Tanchjim Bunny * Tangzu Wan'er SG 2 \* * Simgot EW100/EW100P * ZiiGaat Nuo \* * Truthear Gate \* * ISN Neo 1 \* * BLON BL-03 * BLON BL-03 II * BLON BL-05 * EPZ Q5 Pro \* * TKZK TK-02 * KBEar KB01 * KBEar KB02 \* * KZ Castor Harman (Silver) \* * KZ Castor Pro Harman (Silver) * KZ EDC Pro (\* recommend)

https://preview.redd.it/oc5qk49gnqze1.png?width=2400&format=png&auto=webp&s=9aa9538b56e361c6da5d2c43aba4962eff6c12fd SGOR Adonis should be also good for you, though its more v-shaped than the Salnotes Zero 2, with abit more upper midrange energy (which means female vocals and lead sounds will be more pronounced) But male vocals might get thinner abit, but advantage for the Adonis maybe slightly better on soundstage and image separation vs the Salnotes Zero 2, because of its semi-open back design (Like the KZ Castor Silver, at the UDUU switch setting)

difference is more into maturity, general sound experience, and refinement. but it definitely depends on your preference tuning(s). I previously came from the original KZ Castors (both Bass and Silver Harman), then jumped to KZ AM16 Balanced, but I have already experienced few higher end IEMs around 50-200 USD. AM16 Balanced, especially if bought on a discount or at low price (just like mine at $33 locally here in the Philippines, but in the US it might be around $50-60). Better terms of detail retrieval, instrument separation, and "soundstage" vs the Castors (even if I EQ them to a similar preference EQ I like) But with a little bit more pricy set than the AM16 Balanced, because of its deep V-shape tuning and a little bit more refinement on those more expensive sets, those sets sound better overall. (specifically Ziigaat Odyssey 1) Though personally the AM16 Balanced with PEQ is getting there, sounds wonderful, though definitely those two sets are better, But definitely I know now what to upgrade to and most likely I know what are my end game sets. Until I don't need to EQ. My Mild-V/U shape EQ is around the Xenns Mangird Tea Pro and Ziigaat Odyssey 1. https://preview.redd.it/enkhr59aqhyf1.png?width=2400&format=png&auto=webp&s=35e8f417e92d2acc4f2be3885944fbb1a67f9a52

difference is more into maturity, general sound experience, and refinement. but it definitely depends on your preference tuning(s). I previously came from the original KZ Castors (both Bass and Silver Harman), then jumped to KZ AM16 Balanced, but I have already experienced few higher end IEMs around 50-200 USD. AM16 Balanced, especially if bought on a discount or at low price (just like mine at $33 locally here in the Philippines, but in the US it might be around $50-60). Better terms of detail retrieval, instrument separation, and "soundstage" vs the Castors (even if I EQ them to a similar preference EQ I like) But with a little bit more pricy set than the AM16 Balanced, because of its deep V-shape tuning and a little bit more refinement on those more expensive sets, those sets sound better overall. (specifically Ziigaat Odyssey 1) Though personally the AM16 Balanced with PEQ is getting there, sounds wonderful, though definitely those two sets are better, But definitely I know now what to upgrade to and most likely I know what are my end game sets. Until I don't need to EQ. My Mild-V/U shape EQ is around the Xenns Mangird Tea Pro and Ziigaat Odyssey 1. https://preview.redd.it/enkhr59aqhyf1.png?width=2400&format=png&auto=webp&s=35e8f417e92d2acc4f2be3885944fbb1a67f9a52

Castor Pro (Silver) might be touch bit brighter (abit more leaning towards neutral bright) than the OG Castor Silver, OG Silver seems to have a little bit more smoother sound experience than the Pro Silver. OG Silver, even in FR graphs is more versatile from neutral bright to a Mild-V warm-ish tuning. On the Tangzu Wan'er SG 1, yes its really warm and chill sound experience, though same with your guess it sounded abit too relaxed. Wan'er SG 2 changed that, so you can definitely go for that one as well. If you like bass, then Castor Bass definitely. Imaging wise its better than Tangzu Wan'er SG 1, though male vocals gets drowned, female vocals does not get affected as much. This based on my own personal experience on all 3 https://preview.redd.it/pq76zelzj8xf1.jpeg?width=9720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1e9a811c03703d0c885fd03d7a806392ba2ec491 Though in the end, these are just subjective and personal opinions, everything will end up on your own preferences, likes, and dislikes.

Castor Pro (Silver) might be touch bit brighter (abit more leaning towards neutral bright) than the OG Castor Silver, OG Silver seems to have a little bit more smoother sound experience than the Pro Silver. OG Silver, even in FR graphs is more versatile from neutral bright to a Mild-V warm-ish tuning. On the Tangzu Wan'er SG 1, yes its really warm and chill sound experience, though same with your guess it sounded abit too relaxed. Wan'er SG 2 changed that, so you can definitely go for that one as well. If you like bass, then Castor Bass definitely. Imaging wise its better than Tangzu Wan'er SG 1, though male vocals gets drowned, female vocals does not get affected as much. This based on my own personal experience on all 3 https://preview.redd.it/pq76zelzj8xf1.jpeg?width=9720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1e9a811c03703d0c885fd03d7a806392ba2ec491 Though in the end, these are just subjective and personal opinions, everything will end up on your own preferences, likes, and dislikes.

The original EDX Pro is really more on the V-shaped bright tuning, and many don't like its bright tuning. If you really like bass, Castor Harman is not your IEM. I would either suggest going to like Saga Bass or Castor Bass, or Dawn. Castor Harman (1100 switches), Gale, EDC Pro, EDX Pro 2, and Saga Balanced is more leaning towards balanced-ish tuning. Castor Harman (0000 switches) is more leaning to mild-V shaped bright, (0011 switches) neutral bright tuning Terms of improvement or any differences, if you want versatility and easy to adjust to almost any tuning, go for the Castor Harman (tuning switches and EQ) If you want to not fiddle with switches and/or EQ, go for the EDC Pro, EDX Pro 2, and Saga series.

EDX Pro 2 and Saga Bass would definitely be a slightly more warmer set than EDC Pro. EDC Pro would be similar-ish in bass and mids with the EDX Pro 2, but a brighter treble, abit closer to balanced than warm or bright. But the EDC Pro was original reference tuning for many newer KZ IEMs, like the EDX Pro 2 and Saga Bass. They just refined the sound overtime, Zenith was the pinnacle of that tuning, especially alot of people really preferred the warmer sound. Even other KZs have been tuned to a tamer treble than classic KZ sets. Though recent new new releases have been using the Castor and Castor Pro Bass tuning with refinements on treble, and bass for the bass versions of the new KZ IEMs. https://preview.redd.it/rwodxqaqc3yf1.png?width=2400&format=png&auto=webp&s=cef5c06819544d7d3340234c1640b7dc24e72474

The original EDX Pro is really more on the V-shaped bright tuning, and many don't like its bright tuning. If you really like bass, Castor Harman is not your IEM. I would either suggest going to like Saga Bass or Castor Bass, or Dawn. Castor Harman (1100 switches), Gale, EDC Pro, EDX Pro 2, and Saga Balanced is more leaning towards balanced-ish tuning. Castor Harman (0000 switches) is more leaning to mild-V shaped bright, (0011 switches) neutral bright tuning Terms of improvement or any differences, if you want versatility and easy to adjust to almost any tuning, go for the Castor Harman (tuning switches and EQ) If you want to not fiddle with switches and/or EQ, go for the EDC Pro, EDX Pro 2, and Saga series.

The original EDX Pro is really more on the V-shaped bright tuning, and many don't like its bright tuning. If you really like bass, Castor Harman is not your IEM. I would either suggest going to like Saga Bass or Castor Bass, or Dawn. Castor Harman (1100 switches), Gale, EDC Pro, EDX Pro 2, and Saga Balanced is more leaning towards balanced-ish tuning. Castor Harman (0000 switches) is more leaning to mild-V shaped bright, (0011 switches) neutral bright tuning Terms of improvement or any differences, if you want versatility and easy to adjust to almost any tuning, go for the Castor Harman (tuning switches and EQ) If you want to not fiddle with switches and/or EQ, go for the EDC Pro, EDX Pro 2, and Saga series.

The original EDX Pro is really more on the V-shaped bright tuning, and many don't like its bright tuning. If you really like bass, Castor Harman is not your IEM. I would either suggest going to like Saga Bass or Castor Bass, or Dawn. Castor Harman (1100 switches), Gale, EDC Pro, EDX Pro 2, and Saga Balanced is more leaning towards balanced-ish tuning. Castor Harman (0000 switches) is more leaning to mild-V shaped bright, (0011 switches) neutral bright tuning Terms of improvement or any differences, if you want versatility and easy to adjust to almost any tuning, go for the Castor Harman (tuning switches and EQ) If you want to not fiddle with switches and/or EQ, go for the EDC Pro, EDX Pro 2, and Saga series.

The original EDX Pro is really more on the V-shaped bright tuning, and many don't like its bright tuning. If you really like bass, Castor Harman is not your IEM. I would either suggest going to like Saga Bass or Castor Bass, or Dawn. Castor Harman (1100 switches), Gale, EDC Pro, EDX Pro 2, and Saga Balanced is more leaning towards balanced-ish tuning. Castor Harman (0000 switches) is more leaning to mild-V shaped bright, (0011 switches) neutral bright tuning Terms of improvement or any differences, if you want versatility and easy to adjust to almost any tuning, go for the Castor Harman (tuning switches and EQ) If you want to not fiddle with switches and/or EQ, go for the EDC Pro, EDX Pro 2, and Saga series.

Neutral Warm \\\_ * Tangzu Wan'er SG/Wan'er 2 Neutral Bright \_/ * 7Hz Salnotes Zero * KZ Castor Silver (Harman, DDUU) V-shaped \\/ * 7Hz x Crinacle Salnotes Zero 2 * Kinera Celest Wyvern Pro (Mild V) * ZiiGaat Nuo (V-bright) * Kiwi Ears Dolce * Moondrop Chu 2 * Tanchjim Bunny 3.5mm * Tanchjim One 3.5mm * KBEar KS2 * QKZ x HBB * KZ Castor Silver (Harman, UUDD) * KZ Castor Black (Improved Bass) U-shaped \\\_/ * Tanchjim Bunny DSP * Tanchjim One DSP * KZ EDC Pro

7Hz Zero 2 is good on gaming. With the KZ Castor (it depends on what Castor you wanted) as there are 2 version of the Castor. Silver Harman Tuned and Black Bass Boosted Tuned: Black Bass Boosted Tuned is usually recommended by majority of the YouTuber reviewers, but its only great for EDM, Hip-Hop, and Rap music and not so good for competitive gaming personally, but great for single player games. Silver Harman Tuned is more versatile, can be tuned either for gaming and/or music. And can handle more than the Bass Improved version and also decent for general gaming as well.

Taurus is really tuned for a more neutral-ish or neutral bright preference. Its close to my JM-1 +10 dB bass shelf PEQ of my AM16 Balanced. But for my mild-v preference, ill rather pick OG Castor Harman at 1100 or Castor Pro Bass for more bass-focused tuning. Or just use my AM16 Balanced with no EQ, Taurus would just be a side or downgrade personally. But I know some will buy this set as their first.

I have seen a comment (maybe from Audio Amigo) where the Soundbrenner might just be a rebadged TRN ST2 shells with an additional BA driver. Seen frequency response graphs of it somewhere from ASR Forums, wacky and maybe shouty and shrilly graph. https://preview.redd.it/05hgzaaiqxqf1.png?width=2400&format=png&auto=webp&s=bc1d239095b5772b4ab21beb2e973abb64f6a65d I would personally stay away from the Soundbrenner if this is the actual graph, I would rather personally use my KZ Castor, AM16 Balanced, or my EDC Pro over this. In your case, go ahead and buy the Kefine Klean!

Newer KZ sets like the ZS10 Pro 2 are semi-open backs, but they are not really open-backs they still has significant noise cancellation passively. All because of eartip rolling, invest on other eartips. I myself has the KZ Castor, it has a big hole on its bottom with filters. You could kinda hear stuffs outside a bit, but with the right eartips and volume you can't even hear the outside even people yelling.

Have you tried the KZ Castor? I know the Castor is the more expensive one, but the GK Kuten looks really promising with such an expensive driver from the KZ Zenith. I'm kind of tempted to hop on the hype train, but my Castor has already been great for me. I haven't thought of getting another IEM for a while since I've been fine using my Castor.

Thanks for the reply. I don't own the Pro variants, just the standard and the Harman versions. The UDUD settings have been perfect for my needs, as I'm not a serious audiophile and just wanted decent audio gear for gaming and music. From what I understand, there's a negligible difference between the Pro and the Base/Harman models, but the Pro Bass and the Bass non-Pro model are significantly different.

You can also get KZ Castor Harman Target edition, I use the same with my Boss Katana 50 and they have been great since the past year

Kz castor harman target version or the tangzu wan'er. I've got both I prefer castor over wan'er but that's just me

I've had salnotes 7hz as my first iems and I'd say they felt flat to me ...flat enough that the music felt depressing to my ears . So I wouldn't recommend you to get an iem replicating music as is .... A lil fun element in listening don't hurt no one and ofc you don't have to go for punchy ones if that's not ur taste. You can check out KZ castor harman target which would be most suited for you, tangzu wan'er, else if you like a little bit of fun and vocal centricity ...Tanchjim bunny dsp it is ....this and good fit eartips ! 

just got kz castor bass version yesterday and the left sounded weaker than the right, so I'm returning them. They probably do have a quality issue (which I dont blame since its so cheap)