Hello dear readers! I am happy to see you here again in another review.
Today I am going to review the CCZ TianGong CZ10, a 1DD + 4BA drivers IEM, that was sent to me by KEEPHIFI.
Let's jump into it!
My goal in my reviews is to make it easier for everyone to understand the terms audiophiles often use, so even if you are a beginner and this is all new for you, you can feel comfortable understanding all the terms and make a better decision for yourself.
I thought it could make it easier for you to understand what I am listening to, and if we are audio soul mates, maybe this review will talk to you more personally
I mainly listen to pop music and instrumental music, such as Lindsey Stirling. I am also an EDM lover, who enjoys both sides of the spectrum: bass and treble. My favorite artist, for example, is Snail's House, and I also listen to a lot of monstercat releases. Are we audio soul mates?
In the box you will find:
The packaging of the CZ10 is not rich, for an under a 50$ set. You are basically getting a simple QDC cable, and some basic ear tips. Moreover, there is no carrying case for the IEMs. If it was a 30$ IEM, it would be acceptable. But we are talking here about an under 50$ set, so it is expected. This IEM is using a QDC connector, and not common 2-PIN connector. But to their credit, the packaging is looking very good, and the box itself feels premium and fun to unbox.
The build quality of the CZ10 is very good, the shell is made of metal which is impressive, as even more expensive hybrid IEMs are not made of metal. That said, this metal is not the lightweight type, and it has some weight to it. The filter of the IEM is made of mesh, which is less durable than a metal filter. I think, if CCZ went with a full metal build, then this little change would also be appreciated. The faceplate of the CZ10 is very pretty in my opinion, it has a very cool design to it that make it look professional. As for fit and comfort, so far no issues. No driver flex, no pressure build up, it was very comfortable to wear for long.
https://squig.link/lab/avishai/?sha...CZ_TianGong_CZ10&bass=0&tilt=0&treble=0&ear=0
The sub-bass, which covers the lowest frequencies and often delivers the rumbling sensation rather than distinct sounds.
The sub bass of the CZ10 is deep, rumbles, hits hard and very impressive for it's price. I wouldn't say that it is very textured though. It is indeed fun, and anyone who loves deep sub bass response will be more than happy here. But, this can be too much sometimes.
The mid-bass, where the bass becomes more distinct and perceptible, is equally well-executed. In this range, you hear kick drums and some male bass vocals more clearly.
The mid bass of the CZ10 is punchy, very boosted, but there is a good treble contrast so it doesn't sound too warm, or warm at all. While sounding punchy, I would say that it is still not the kind of bass that would be called a killer for the price range. It is good, but sounds a bit one-noted, and a bit too boosted to my liking, which can be a fatiguing. I think a less boost would be better, and will make the IEM sounds even cleaner. But for those who do love a lot of mid-bass boost, it could work well.
I found it to work the best with electronic music, where there's a good place for the V-Shape tuning, there's no need anyway for a so textured bass, but a deep and rich bass, and the CZ10 does deliver that. But for pop music, and music that involves vocals and instruments, I don't think the CZ10 is a good fit.
The mids are the home to most instruments and vocals.
This IEM is a V-Shaped IEM, which means – we are loosing here a little bit of midrange pizzazz. To my ears, the vocals are not very forward, and don't sound full, even though there's enough mid-bass boost, the treble contrast is preventing it from happening. So it is basically bass and treble IEM.
The treble of the CZ10 is well extended, which is impressive. Usually budget IEMs doesn't do treble very well, especially in the air region, but here the treble is well felt, it is not harsh, doesn't fatigue. It is fun to listen to electronic music with it. Very fun, actually. This IEM really comes to life with EDM music, such as snails house. It is very fun and engaging and not fatiguing.
Imaging is the ability of the IEM to separate the left or right positions, put anything in the correct direction.
The imaging if fairly good for the price, the left and right is easy to follow.
Usually in IEMs this term is overused, but in general the soundstage is the feel of openness and wideness of the sound. For example, if the IEM provides a congested feeling to the sound, everything sounds in the middle, this is bad soundstage.
The soundstage of the CZ10 is a more "in your face" kind of sound stage, it doesn't spread out too much out of your head, but more in the center.
The separation of the CZ10 is ok, it is a V-Shaped IEM, so the midrange is scooped. But if you are only listening to electronic music, it is less dominant and you shouldn't care about it too much, as it does the job very well. The layering is also good, with a good sense of layering, though I think that there's too much bass that blurs it out, but I think it is good enough.
KZ Saga (balanced)
The KZ Saga is a single DD IEM from KZ, which is also uses a metal shell, but for half of the price. To me the saga works much better with vocals and instruments, it has a good flow to the music that makes it pleasing and warm. The CZ10 on the other hand is more of an extreme V-Shaped IEM which has deep bass and sparkly treble, but the mids are not the star of the show. So, if you are only listening to electronic music, barely listen to vocals or pop music, then the CZ10 is the better choice. Otherwise, go with the KZ Saga (balanced)
LETECIEL MIRA
The mira is a single DD IEM, it also priced under 50$. Just as the saga, the MIRA is more for vocals and instruments. And it is more for those who love anime and waifus packaging kind of style. It also uses a 2-Pin connector. If you love to listen to electronic music, the CZ10 will fit you well, otherwise, the MIRA.
Sliivo SLA3
I know this IEM is a little bit more expensive than the CZ10, but I think it is worth looking at. At sales, you can get this for less than 75$ on AliExpress, which is insane. It comes with a modular cable, high quality ear tips, a carrying case, and branded BA drivers. It has a more all-rounder tuning which fit both electronic and pop music. I think the SLA3 is a superior IEM to the CZ10 in every aspect. But it is up to your budget, and how cheap can you find the SLA3, because its retail price is 103$.
The CCZ TianGong CZ10 is a very good IEM for those who love V-Shape tuning, and listen mostly to electronic music. It truly shines when you listen to EDM, the treble is smooth, not fatiguing, and the bass is deep and punchy.
For those who are looking for an all-rounder budget IEM, I think that wouldn't be the CZ10. It good for what it does, but I don't think that it is a good fit for those who doesn't like V-Shape tuning, as the midrange is scooped, vocals are not very forward, and the bass can be too much.
While being under 50$ set, I do think there's room for improvement for the accessories such as including a carrying case and more selection of ear tips.
But, I can safely say that CCZ did not cheap out on the build quality; the shell is made of metal, and feels quality and weighty.
Overall, this IEM is a very good V-Shape IEM, and it is a good fit for those who like electronic music and EDM in general, and don't listen to vocals too often.
You can find the CCZ TianGong CZ10 for 50$ in this following link.
Big thanks to KEEPHIFI for making this review possible, and I will see you in my next reviews.
Today I am going to review the CCZ TianGong CZ10, a 1DD + 4BA drivers IEM, that was sent to me by KEEPHIFI.
Let's jump into it!
Disclaimer
I received the CCZ TianGong CZ10 from KEEPHIFI in exchange for my honest review, but still – my opinions about the IEMs are personal and written based on my own experience with them, and I was not paid for this review.My goal in my reviews is to make it easier for everyone to understand the terms audiophiles often use, so even if you are a beginner and this is all new for you, you can feel comfortable understanding all the terms and make a better decision for yourself.
A little bit about myself
I thought it could make it easier for you to understand what I am listening to, and if we are audio soul mates, maybe this review will talk to you more personally
I mainly listen to pop music and instrumental music, such as Lindsey Stirling. I am also an EDM lover, who enjoys both sides of the spectrum: bass and treble. My favorite artist, for example, is Snail's House, and I also listen to a lot of monstercat releases. Are we audio soul mates?
A little bit about this IEM
This iem is an interesting offering from CCZ. Usually within this price range you don't get a hybrid configuration, with 4 BA drivers each size. Unless you go the KZ route. But of course, you cannot expect to see here branded drivers (such as Knowles and Sonion). These are very expensive for a budget IEM. Let's dive into it.What's in the box?
In the box you will find:
- 3 x Pairs of Silicon Ear Tips
- 1 x Pair of Foam Ear Tips
- 3.5mm Cable
- The IEMs themselves
Packaging
The packaging of the CZ10 is not rich, for an under a 50$ set. You are basically getting a simple QDC cable, and some basic ear tips. Moreover, there is no carrying case for the IEMs. If it was a 30$ IEM, it would be acceptable. But we are talking here about an under 50$ set, so it is expected. This IEM is using a QDC connector, and not common 2-PIN connector. But to their credit, the packaging is looking very good, and the box itself feels premium and fun to unbox.
Build Quality & Fit and Comfort
The build quality of the CZ10 is very good, the shell is made of metal which is impressive, as even more expensive hybrid IEMs are not made of metal. That said, this metal is not the lightweight type, and it has some weight to it. The filter of the IEM is made of mesh, which is less durable than a metal filter. I think, if CCZ went with a full metal build, then this little change would also be appreciated. The faceplate of the CZ10 is very pretty in my opinion, it has a very cool design to it that make it look professional. As for fit and comfort, so far no issues. No driver flex, no pressure build up, it was very comfortable to wear for long.
In Terms of Sound
https://squig.link/lab/avishai/?sha...CZ_TianGong_CZ10&bass=0&tilt=0&treble=0&ear=0
Sub-Bass
The sub-bass, which covers the lowest frequencies and often delivers the rumbling sensation rather than distinct sounds.
The sub bass of the CZ10 is deep, rumbles, hits hard and very impressive for it's price. I wouldn't say that it is very textured though. It is indeed fun, and anyone who loves deep sub bass response will be more than happy here. But, this can be too much sometimes.
Mid-Bass
The mid-bass, where the bass becomes more distinct and perceptible, is equally well-executed. In this range, you hear kick drums and some male bass vocals more clearly.
The mid bass of the CZ10 is punchy, very boosted, but there is a good treble contrast so it doesn't sound too warm, or warm at all. While sounding punchy, I would say that it is still not the kind of bass that would be called a killer for the price range. It is good, but sounds a bit one-noted, and a bit too boosted to my liking, which can be a fatiguing. I think a less boost would be better, and will make the IEM sounds even cleaner. But for those who do love a lot of mid-bass boost, it could work well.
I found it to work the best with electronic music, where there's a good place for the V-Shape tuning, there's no need anyway for a so textured bass, but a deep and rich bass, and the CZ10 does deliver that. But for pop music, and music that involves vocals and instruments, I don't think the CZ10 is a good fit.
Mids
The mids are the home to most instruments and vocals.
This IEM is a V-Shaped IEM, which means – we are loosing here a little bit of midrange pizzazz. To my ears, the vocals are not very forward, and don't sound full, even though there's enough mid-bass boost, the treble contrast is preventing it from happening. So it is basically bass and treble IEM.
Treble
The treble, which captures high-pitched sounds like cymbals, violins, and higher synthetic tones, adds brightness, sharpness, and sparkle to the music. However, excessive treble can lead to harshness or fatigue.The treble of the CZ10 is well extended, which is impressive. Usually budget IEMs doesn't do treble very well, especially in the air region, but here the treble is well felt, it is not harsh, doesn't fatigue. It is fun to listen to electronic music with it. Very fun, actually. This IEM really comes to life with EDM music, such as snails house. It is very fun and engaging and not fatiguing.
Technical Performance
Imaging
Imaging is the ability of the IEM to separate the left or right positions, put anything in the correct direction.
The imaging if fairly good for the price, the left and right is easy to follow.
Soundstage
Usually in IEMs this term is overused, but in general the soundstage is the feel of openness and wideness of the sound. For example, if the IEM provides a congested feeling to the sound, everything sounds in the middle, this is bad soundstage.
The soundstage of the CZ10 is a more "in your face" kind of sound stage, it doesn't spread out too much out of your head, but more in the center.
Layering & Separation
Layering & Separation is the ability to deliver you any piece of instrument or vocal in its own place, separately. The better it gets, the more resolving the IEM will be.The separation of the CZ10 is ok, it is a V-Shaped IEM, so the midrange is scooped. But if you are only listening to electronic music, it is less dominant and you shouldn't care about it too much, as it does the job very well. The layering is also good, with a good sense of layering, though I think that there's too much bass that blurs it out, but I think it is good enough.
Comparisons
Comparisons could give you a better idea of where this IEM stands within the market.KZ Saga (balanced)
The KZ Saga is a single DD IEM from KZ, which is also uses a metal shell, but for half of the price. To me the saga works much better with vocals and instruments, it has a good flow to the music that makes it pleasing and warm. The CZ10 on the other hand is more of an extreme V-Shaped IEM which has deep bass and sparkly treble, but the mids are not the star of the show. So, if you are only listening to electronic music, barely listen to vocals or pop music, then the CZ10 is the better choice. Otherwise, go with the KZ Saga (balanced)
LETECIEL MIRA
The mira is a single DD IEM, it also priced under 50$. Just as the saga, the MIRA is more for vocals and instruments. And it is more for those who love anime and waifus packaging kind of style. It also uses a 2-Pin connector. If you love to listen to electronic music, the CZ10 will fit you well, otherwise, the MIRA.
Sliivo SLA3
I know this IEM is a little bit more expensive than the CZ10, but I think it is worth looking at. At sales, you can get this for less than 75$ on AliExpress, which is insane. It comes with a modular cable, high quality ear tips, a carrying case, and branded BA drivers. It has a more all-rounder tuning which fit both electronic and pop music. I think the SLA3 is a superior IEM to the CZ10 in every aspect. But it is up to your budget, and how cheap can you find the SLA3, because its retail price is 103$.
To Sum Up
The CCZ TianGong CZ10 is a very good IEM for those who love V-Shape tuning, and listen mostly to electronic music. It truly shines when you listen to EDM, the treble is smooth, not fatiguing, and the bass is deep and punchy.
For those who are looking for an all-rounder budget IEM, I think that wouldn't be the CZ10. It good for what it does, but I don't think that it is a good fit for those who doesn't like V-Shape tuning, as the midrange is scooped, vocals are not very forward, and the bass can be too much.
While being under 50$ set, I do think there's room for improvement for the accessories such as including a carrying case and more selection of ear tips.
But, I can safely say that CCZ did not cheap out on the build quality; the shell is made of metal, and feels quality and weighty.
Overall, this IEM is a very good V-Shape IEM, and it is a good fit for those who like electronic music and EDM in general, and don't listen to vocals too often.
You can find the CCZ TianGong CZ10 for 50$ in this following link.
Big thanks to KEEPHIFI for making this review possible, and I will see you in my next reviews.