TRUTHEAR X CRINACLE Zero Red : Loving This Was Red

TRUTHEAR has released another collab with Crinacle and released the Zero Red. To be honest, I really dislikedthe first Truthear x Crinacle Zero since it sounds very bland and lacking in dynamics. It didn't even last 10 seconds in my ear but of course, that is not the best way to judge an IEM but first impression just didn't go well on me. Now, I received some remarks that the Zero Red is a better version. We shall see.

DISCLAIMER:

• I have no affiliation with TRUTHEAR and have not received any monetary compensation during or after writing this review.  This unit is loaned by my friend, Chard, lots of thanks for letting me try these out! As always, this review will be honest and unbiased.
• 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

Truthear likes to make their packages small and compact as much as possible and it works. I always appeal to smaller packages since it consumes less space on my cabinet and who needs a big a$$ packaging right? 

The box dons another anime-ish aesthetic which appeals to some weebs out there. Don't get me wrong though, I watch anime, I read manga, and web comics, but of course, I set hobbies aside, and have a good grasp on reality (yep, I touch grass all the time) and don't usually blend them together. Yep, I listen to J-Pop, and anime genres but don't usually incorporate them on my test tracks since most of them usually sound horrible, low-res, and pitchy. Unless that's a milet, and Aimer track.

Anyways, I got sidetracked there, here's what's inside the box:

• Truthear Zero Red IEM
• Cables
• 2 pairs of mesh filters
• 6 pairs of eartips
• 1 pair of foam tips
• Leather pouch
• 10 ohms adapter
• Manuals and a waifu standee

BUILD QUALITY

Truthear's build quality has never been a strong point in my opinion, and it feels quite inexpensive. The nozzles are overly bulky, restricting the choices for swapping out ear tips. Additionally, the cables are thin and fairly basic in design.

SOUND 

Credits to Super*Review

While their build quality may not be their strongest feature, the Zero Red have consistently delivered exceptional sound quality. Surprisingly, I found myself preferring the sound of the Zero Red over the original Zero model. The Zero Red offers a well-balanced sound signature with a notably smoother treble. 

BASS

The bass carries a satisfying amount of weight without tipping into the territory of being overly bass-heavy. It maintains a balanced dynamics and doesn't overpower the other frequency ranges. The mid-bass, while not exceptionally punchy, leans more toward providing a sense of weight rather than a strong attack. The bass gets a boost when using the included impedance adapter, resulting in a more textured bass but with a slight compromise in resolution.

MIDS

The mids on the Zero are somewhat recessed. The additional warmth contributes to a natural and smooth texture in both vocals and instruments, prioritizing overall harmony over intricate details. I particularly prefer these for extended listening sessions. Using the impedance adapter, the midrange becomes recessed and warmer, creating a more euphonic, lush midrange.

TREBLE

The treble comes as safe and smooth. The treble may come across as lackluster to specific listeners as it lacks air and sparkle. While this restrained treble approach may not cater to those seeking a livelier sound, it successfully steers clear of the harsh and piercing treble notes that can lead to listener fatigue. It's worth noting that the Zero Red impressively avoids any issues with sibilance.

TECHNICALITIES

The soundstage, while not exceptional, surpasses that of other competitors in its price range. The imaging and separation are commendably accurate for a product in its price category. Remarkably, it manages to maintain decent resolution even without an emphasis on the treble.

TEST TRACKS

CONCLUSION

Pros:

• Balanced sound profile
• Intimate mids
• Smooth-sounding treble
• Decent technicalities

Cons:

• Treble is lacking in air and energy
• Nozzles limits eartip rolling
• Cheap build quality

At approximately $50, finding the Truthear Crinacle Zero Red can be a challenge in my country, as local suppliers seem to have depleted their stocks. Luckily, a friend managed to acquire one and graciously allowed me to review it. Hopefully, more units will become available because the Truthear Zero Red is an excellent in-ear monitor for those seeking a balanced and rich sound profile. While it may not excel in reproducing intricate details, it excels in delivering warm lower frequencies. The build quality may raise some questions, but that's the only significant drawback worth mentioning.