Listening Environment

Listening was performed with the NICEHCK S77 cable (4.4mm 2pin) and default earpieces, with the switch at 1111 (all on).The cable was changed to KBEAR Glint during the course of the study.

First impression of sound quality: This is indeed good!

The first thing that surprised me when I heard the ZA12 was the amount of information it provided.The sound was very pleasant, and after a long time, I thought I had encountered earphones that made me feel "This is good!I thought I had encountered earphones that made me feel "This is good!For my personal taste, I feel that ZA12 has enough potential to compete with EM6L.

Quality sound

Although it is a donation, I can honestly say that I like the sound; the ZA12 is such a complete earphone that I would not have regretted purchasing it with my own money.

Natural sound separation and clear treble

Even in music with mixed instrumental sounds, the ZA12 naturally separates each sound and lets the listener hear it.I liked the fact that the sounds were naturally audible, rather than artificially separated.In addition to the "high resolution" that allows us to hear even the smallest of details, the pleasant resonance and the natural, multi-layered, expansive three-dimensional effect are also worthy of special mention.

Bass with the bririant balance of resolution and softness

The bass has a strong presence, but is not overpowering, as is often the case with conventional KZ products.You can enjoy informative, high-quality bass.The balance between the high resolution, which allows the listener to clearly distinguish the sound overlaying the bass, and the softness of the sound is exquisite, giving a very pleasant impression despite the large amount of information.

Changes due to aging

Aging from a few hours to a day further improved the sound separation and transformed the sound to be more distinct.Aging is recommended, even for a short time.

Music for which it may be suited.

ZA12 is more suited for modern music, intense music, and more technical music with more complex sound pronunciation than retro music.Songs that suit a clear, distinct and crisp listening experience may be more enjoyable.

Comparison with Trio: Clarity and good visibility

Although I personally prefer to use KZ's Trio (3DD), I felt that the ZA12's sound components were more clearly perceptible and its visibility was a step above the Trio.The clear sound of ZA12, with no buried sound information, is a major attraction of ZA12.

Size and Wearing Feel

The size is about the same as Rhapsody, and may seem a little thicker and larger than general earphones.However, the fit is good and does not bother you once you put them on your ears.

About the switch settings

I preferred the switch settings around 1111 or 1110. at 0000 (all off), the bass is definitely more subdued, unlike the traditional KZ sound. 1111 is still somewhat subdued.The two switches on the left are for the amount of bass, and the two switches on the right seem to be for the amount of mids and highs.

Summary

It is still the KZ sound!

The sound is different from conventional KZ products in some areas, such as the bass adjustment range, and the F characteristic balance of the sound is appropriate for a KZ product, but overall, it can only be described as the "enjoyable KZ sound" (that pleasant sound).I think KZ has peeled off its skin recently in the year 2025.