It's Natan here with another headphone review. This time I am reviewing the KZ ZS3. Check out the video review at the end of this post, if you want! I received this pair as a gift from the KZ Headset Store on AliExpress. If you're interested in great headphone deals and discounts, check them out at the link below: https://www.aliexpress.com/store/4409033?spm=2114.12010615.0.0.2feb86b6bqJc3j Overview and Design I got this pair of ZS3's for free, from the very kind people at KZ Headset Store on AliExpress. Of course, this will not affect my review, I am not obligated to change my opinions on these headphones. I am not biased in any way. This is a completely honest review. Normal customers can find the ZS3 for around $10 on AliExpress and a number of other sites. The ZS3 comes in two colors - glossy black and matte black. However, the matte black version is hard to find nowadays and may cost more than the glossy black version. The ZS3 is made of durable plastic and features detachable cables and memory wire. The design is very unique, I mentioned in my video that it looks like a custom earphone design. The ZS3's cable is the old KZ rubber cable which is a bit sticky and rubbery. You can purchase a braided cable for $3-$4 on AliExpress, which is a great improvement over the stock cable. Sound Quality The ZS3 is a nice sounding earphone overall. The soundstage is wide but not "airy" as on the ZSA, because the ZS3 is closed back, after all. Highs are clear but not crisp. I did not detect any sibilance on any songs, even with an equalizer. The bass is prominent; fairly deep, and even rumbling, if you push the ZS3 into your ear, it becomes even deeper. The bass is not punchy but it is certainly noticeable on most bass heavy songs. A basshead will be satisfied with this earphone for sure, but the ES3 is a better choice, it's only a few bucks cheaper and provides much better, deeper, pounding bass. Sound signature is darkish, and vocals are smooth and not harsh at all. In bass heavy songs they may be overpowered by the bass. Comfort The ZS3 is comfortable and seals well in your ears. The memory wire is annoying for me so I cut it off, it's an easy modification to do, if the wire bothers you. The unique "lumpy" design will ensure a good fit in your ears. Noise Isolation Noise isolation is amazing, comparable to the ES3. You won't hear any outside noise, and others won't hear your music. A great option for listening to music in public. Overall Review The ZS3 is a quality earphone that feels and looks good. The custom design is very unique and you may even get curious stares from people if you wear the ZS3 in public. The sound quality is good, great bass and good soundstage, vocals are clear and highs aren't sibilant at all. The ZS3 is comfortable and seals well. Change the ear tips if they don't sit right for you, but this will change the sound signature, too. The noise isolation is on the level of the ES3. Absolutely no complaints here. And overall, I would rate the ZS3 an 8/10! However - pay attention here - the ZS3 is an older model of KZ's and there are now better options available for around the same price, like the ES3 or even the ES4, which I haven't reviewed yet but I am planning to in the near future. That doesn't mean that the ZS3's aren't worth buying. A chi-fi lover should consider adding the ZS3's to their collection. 8/10Video Review |