Best Iems For Metal 2025 : My Recommendations

Linsoul KZ ZS10 Pro

Linsoul KZ ZS10 Pro, 4BA+1DD 5 Driver in-Ear HiFi Metal Earphones with Stainless Steel Faceplate, 2 Pin Detachable Cable (Without Mic, Dark Black)

Testing the Linsoul KZ ZS10 Pro: My New Favorite Earphones

When it comes to trying out new gadgets, I always approach with a bit of caution, especially when I can't test them firsthand. But after some thorough research, I decided to try the Linsoul KZ ZS10 Pro earphones. I bought these mainly to enhance my gaming and music experiences, and wow – what a difference they've made!

First off, I was amazed by the quality of the music. Switching from my regular earbuds and gaming headphones, it was like night and day. I decided to test it with FLAC music files, which offer better quality sound, and the improvement was immediately noticeable. The sound is clear and crisp, with plenty of volume when simply plugged into my laptop's 3.5mm jack. Interestingly, I didn't experience any annoying hissing that some people have mentioned; perhaps I just got lucky.

Now, while I'm not a big fan of heavy bass, I found the bass level on the KZ ZS10 Pro to be more than enough for my taste. It's not overwhelming but still adds depth to the music. I also found that I didn’t need any fancy equipment like an amplifier or DAC. These earphones work perfectly well with my laptop, computer, and phone, which is pretty convenient for anyone looking to upgrade without extra gear.

Getting the Fit Just Right

As with most in-ear monitors, figuring out how these earphones fit was a bit tricky at first. The left and right earbuds are labeled with R and L, but they can be hard to spot. Once I got them in the right way, though, they fit comfortably. The silicone ear tips provided were just right for my ears straight out of the box, which is often not the case with other earbuds. Some people have mentioned a new wire smell, but honestly, it smelled just like any other new electronics, so no problems there for me.

A Great Entry into HiFi Sound

I'm generally pretty skeptical about products that seem too good to be true, particularly when it comes to budget-friendly yet high-performing items. However, the Linsoul KZ ZS10 Pro earphones surpassed my expectations. They didn’t break the bank but still offer quality that feels high-end. For anyone looking to step up their audio game, whether for music or gaming, these earphones are worth a try. Overall, they’ve become a staple of my daily tech gear, providing excellent sound quality without fuss. If you’re on the fence about upgrading your earphones, I’d say go for it – these might just surprise you as much as they did me.

Linsoul TIN Audio T2

Linsoul TIN Audio T2 HiFi in Ear Monitor, 2DD Double Dynamic Driver IEM, Wired Earbuds, Metal Bass Headphones, with 3.5mm 2pin IEM Cable for DJ Musician

Exploring the Linsoul TIN Audio T2: A Delight for Music Lovers

I recently had the pleasure of using the Linsoul TIN Audio T2, a pair of IEMs (in-ear monitors) that have quickly become my trusty companions. Right from the start, I was impressed by their durability. The earbuds have survived a few bumps and knocks without a hiccup, and they continue to sound as good as the first day I put them on. The build quality is nothing short of remarkable, especially given the price.

These earbuds come with a wired 3.5mm 2pin IEM cable which is robust and demonstrates no signs of wear or tear despite extensive use. I did encounter a challenge with the mmcmx connectors initially, as they required more effort to snap into place than I expected. I was nervous at first about applying more pressure, but once connected, they stayed firmly in place.

Sound that Impresses

What makes the TIN Audio T2 stand out is its sound quality. Although the treble is a bit more forward, especially in the 3 to 5 kHz range, it's a characteristically bright sound that doesn't become overwhelming. After spending some time getting accustomed to this brightness, I found it rewarding. Whether listening through my tablet or the HiFiwalker H2, the sound was consistently clear and accurate. The sensitivity of these IEMs is truly impressive, revealing details and nuances in the music.

Comfort and Accessories

While the sound is a significant highlight, comfort also matters. Included with the T2s are several silicone tips, but I found them to be lower in quality. I highly recommend swapping these out for Dekoni 4.9mm foam tips. They are a perfect fit and enhance the comfort and acoustic experience significantly. It’s a bit of a shame that more high-quality tips like the blue foam ones aren't readily available as extras from Tin. Nonetheless, the upgrade is worth it.

The Perfect Pairing

To fully appreciate the TIN Audio T2, combining it with a HiFiwalker H2 player is amazing. This setup allows for incredible audio performance that rivals setups five times its price. With this player, I can enjoy high-quality flac files and other formats that make the listening experience outstanding.

In Conclusion

Overall, the Linsoul TIN Audio T2 offers exceptional value. With its superior build quality and sound performance, it’s hard to find any real downsides, except maybe for the tighter grip needed by the connectors. For its price, it delivers a soundscape that music lovers will cherish. Whether you're on the go or relaxing at home, these IEMs are a fantastic addition to any music lover’s collection. If you’re considering a portable audio setup on a budget, the TIN Audio T2 paired with a HiFiwalker H2 player is a worthy contender.

Moondrop CHU II

Moondrop CHU II High Performance Dynamic Driver IEMs Interchangeable Cable in-Ear Headphone

Moondrop CHU II: A Pocket-Sized Powerhouse

When I first laid my hands on the Moondrop CHU II, I was taken aback by the level of craftsmanship packed into such an affordable package. For just $20, these in-ear monitors (IEMs) offered a combination of high-quality sound and sturdy build that is usually reserved for much pricier models.

Sleek and Sturdy Design

The first thing that struck me about the Moondrop CHU II is its metal construction. The earbuds feel premium and substantial in the palm, yet when they're in my ears, they are surprisingly light and comfortable. Their fit is truly remarkable, nestling neatly into my ears for long listening sessions without discomfort. These earbuds come with a sleek leather pouch, adding an extra touch of elegance and practicality for carrying them around.

Comfortable Wearing and Usable Features

The eartips are quite standard, doing a decent job of blocking out ambient noise, although they're not the best at passive noise isolation I've experienced. However, considering the cost, this is a trade-off I am willing to accept. The cable is thinner compared to other IEMs I've tried, and it lacks an in-line microphone and controls. Yet, the lightweight cable stays conveniently out of the way, and if the need arises, swapping in a different cable with those features is an option.

Impressive Sound Quality

Listening to my favorite tunes with the CHU II has been a delightful experience. They provide a rich, full sound, with an emphasis that leans toward the bassy and smooth. The mids and highs, while slightly darker than my usual preference, are easily adjusted with an equalizer for more clarity. It’s quite remarkable how they get the bass just right, offering depth without overwhelming the other frequencies.

I've enjoyed trying these out with a variety of music. From the bass-heavy tracks of Daft Punk's "Discovery" to the melodic sounds of "I Need to Start a Garden" by Haley Heyndrickx, each song shines with warm and distinct details. The CHU II also handles volume very well, getting loud enough at a moderate listening level but with enough headroom to spare for those more spirited listening sessions.

Final Thoughts

Given their performance, the Moondrop CHU II has quickly become my go-to choice for everyday listening. Balancing quality and cost so effectively makes them not only a fantastic buy for personal use but also an ideal gift for friends and audiophiles alike. It's the kind of product that leaves me wondering how they manage to offer so much for so little, all wrapped up in a package that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the ears. Who'd have thought a $20 pair of IEMs could impress this much?

KZ ZSX Earbuds Headphone

KZ ZSX Earbuds Headphone IEM, 5BA+1DD Hybrid 6 Drivers HiFi Earphones with Metal Panel and Detachable 2 Pin Cable for Church Musician Band (Cyan No Microphone)…

KZ ZSX Earbuds: A Pleasant Surprise in Sound

I recently had the chance to try out the KZ ZSX Earbuds, and I must say they genuinely surprised me. As a professional musician, I have pretty high standards when it comes to my in-ear monitoring devices, especially since I run ampless on stage and need to hear everything clearly. To be honest, these earbuds were a backup for my usual custom-molded, high-end monitors. I never expected them to compete on the same level, but they did an impressive job of standing up on their own.

Firstly, the KZ ZSX earbuds have a richness and depth that I rarely encounter in earbuds priced in this range. The low end was full and rich, with a delightful presence that usually falls short in budget options. However, it did show its limits when pushed with bass-heavy sounds like the bass guitar and kick drum, tending to break up slightly. Still, for everyday listening and reasonably low stage volumes, the bass performance was pleasantly satisfying.

Exceeding Expectations with Highs and Mids

What I found particularly noteworthy was the representation of the high frequencies. The 10-16kHz range had a beautiful shimmer, adding a polished gleam to my audio mix. This shimmer provided a pleasing audio experience that really elevated the overall sound quality of the earbuds. While my taste prefers a more neutral mix, I found the midrange to be quite pronounced between 800Hz and 12kHz. For some, this might require tweaking to achieve the desired balance, but it wasn't a dealbreaker by any means.

Considering their price, the earbuds provided a decent seal with the included tips, although not quite the snug fit of my custom mold monitors. This is something to keep in mind if you're transitioning from a custom setup. While not a perfect replacement for my go-to stage monitors, the KZ ZSX earbuds served remarkably well as a backup.

A Strong Backup for Musicians

Overall, I was genuinely surprised by how much these earbuds were able to deliver in a live music scenario. While they don't quite match the nuances and isolation of high-end custom models, they offer a sound experience full of pleasant highs, decent mids, and satisfying lows for less demanding situations. They're definitely a strong contender if you need a reliable and affordable backup, or even as a primary option if you're just starting out. It's not always easy to find quality like this in such a budget-friendly package. The KZ ZSX earbuds may not be perfect, but they certainly exceeded my expectations and performance needs in a pinch.

Linsoul 7Hz Salnotes Zero HiFi In-Ear Earphone IEM

Linsoul 7Hz Salnotes Zero HiFi 10mm Dynamic Driver in-Ear Earphone IEM with Metal Composite Diaphragm Stainless Steel Faceplate Detachable 2Pin OFC Cable (Blue, with Mic, 3.5mm)

Linsoul 7Hz Salnotes Zero: A Personal Experience

Whenever I discover new earphones, it feels like embarking on a little adventure, especially when it comes to the Linsoul 7Hz Salnotes Zero HiFi In-Ear Earphone. After trying them out, I'm excited to share my thoughts on these intriguing and affordable earphones with you.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about the 7Hz Salnotes Zero was their appearance, featuring a two-part plastic chassis with a striking stainless steel faceplate. These earphones have a jagged, angular outline with "SAL♪NOTES ZERO" etched elegantly on them. After a bit of use, I did notice some minor scratches, though. Tiny details like the "L" and "R" indicators impressed me by making the earphones easy to wear correctly. However, when it came to the 2-pin connectors, removing them was a bit of a challenge. They were snug but well-built, ensuring stability during use. The cable itself had a durable feel to it, though there was a slight microphonic issue that meant I could hear vibrations and noises if the cable rubbed against my clothes.

Comfort and Fit

As someone who values comfort, I appreciated that these earphones are designed to be worn cable-up, providing a comfortable fit. Yet, I found myself readjusting them from time to time to keep them secure, especially during more active moments. Given the shallow fit, sound isolation wasn't the best, letting some noise creep in. But despite that, the overall comfort didn't disappoint.

Sound Quality

What caught my attention most was the sound performance. The 7Hz Salnotes Zero earphones are likened to having a "Harman-ish" sound signature. This includes a focus on sub-bass over mid-bass and a downward slope from the pinna gain to the upper treble. There was a noticeable clarity in the midrange, making heavy rock music so enjoyable to listen to. It's a bit cooler, and while male vocals carried a touch of grit, they lacked a little warmth that I usually prefer.

The female vocals were clear and forward, though slightly strained compared to another IEM, the Moondrop Chu. The treble, while not sparkling with cymbal hits, had a crispness that I found delightful. Despite the Chu having a larger soundstage and slightly better details, the Zero excelled with amazing instrument separation, which is truly exceptional for its price.

Easy to Drive

Another advantage of the Linsoul 7Hz Salnotes Zero is that they don't require a powerful source to sound good. Regardless if I used my Qudelix 5K or other devices, there was no noticeable hiss, and reaching a comfortable listening volume was effortless.

In conclusion, the Linsoul 7Hz Salnotes Zero offers a robust sound for a very reasonable price. While the fit might need some getting used to, and it may not win first place in sound isolation, its strengths in sound clarity and build quality make it a solid choice. Whether you're into the alluring design or the sound quality it offers, these earphones bring a lot to the table for just $20.