After a year of not reviewing KZ Products, I recently had the opportunity to test their newest budget offering, the KZ EDXS. Building upon the success of the EDX and EDX Pro models, the EDXS represents the third iteration of the EDX line and stands out as the most visually appealing and durable version to date.
DISCLAIMER:
- I have no affiliation with KZ and have not received any monetary compensation during or after writing this review. KZ provided this unit to me in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
- As a non-professional reviewer, I aim to use simple terms that can be understood by both beginners and experts in the hobby.
- Please keep in mind that the opinions expressed in this review are subjective and based on my personal experience with the unit. I encourage you to try the product yourself to form your own opinion.
PACKAGING
We have the usual KZ packaging with minimal accessories. For this price range, I don't have any qualms about the included package.
- KZ EDXS
- Cables
- 3 pairs of eartips
- Manual
BUILD QUALITY
The EDXS has a good build quality aiming for a very robust and good looking budget in-ear monitor. The faceplate is metal while the rest of the shell is made up of resin. You can see the single 10mm dynamic driver inside.
SOUND
The KZ EDXS boasts a V-shaped sound signature which has been their signature sound for the past few years. With each new release, KZ manages to refine and enhance their sound, and the EDXS is no exception.
BASS
The KZ EDXS provides a remarkably impactful bass response, catering to the preferences of bass heads. With its deep-reaching sub-bass and thumping mid-bass, it delivers a satisfying low-frequency. However, despite the depth and impact, the bass can feel somewhat average in terms of weight and texture.
MIDS
The mid-range presentation of the KZ EDXS exhibits a recessed quality, as anticipated in a V-shaped in-ear monitor. Both male and female vocals have a noticeable thickness, albeit leaning slightly towards a more laid-back positioning. However, when it comes to clarity and intricate details, the vocals tend to fall short and can occasionally sound unengaging.
TREBLE
I have noticed a slight peak starting in the upper midrange, which occasionally leads to discernible sibilance on certain tracks. The treble may sound splashy and undesirable especially for treble-sensitive users.
TECHNICALITIES
When it comes to technical performance, the KZ EDXS falls in line with other in-ear monitors within its price range. Like many others, it offers an average soundstage in terms of width and depth. The spatial representation of instruments and vocals is decent, allowing for a reasonable sense of separation and placement. However, the EDXS may lack the expansiveness and three-dimensionality that can truly immerse the listener in a wide soundstage.
In terms of imaging, the KZ EDXS demonstrates an average level of detail and placement. It is capable of placing instruments and sound elements in their respective positions, allowing for a reasonable sense of directionality. Separation, on the other hand, is generally decent with the EDXS. It does a commendable job in distinguishing between different instruments and vocals. However, it's worth noting that during particularly busy tracks with complex layering and numerous simultaneous elements, the EDXS may struggle to maintain complete separation. The soundstage can feel somewhat compressed, and there might be a slight loss of clarity and definition as a result.
TEST TRACK
CONCLUSION
Pros:
- Good V-shaped option in the market
- Has good impactful bass
- Overall a slight improvement to the EDX
- Durable combination of metal and resin
Cons:
- Of course, the QDC pin
- Recessed midrange
- Splashy treble
- Sibilance is present
- Average technicalities
It appeals to those who enjoy a lively and energetic V-shaped sound signature, which is a popular choice for a majority of listeners. Considering its affordable price point of less than $20, the EDXS offers impressive value for money.
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